How to Get Duplicate Driving Licence for Lost or Damaged DL
Losing your driving licence or having it damaged beyond recognition can be stressful, but the process to obtain a duplicate is straightforward. Under Rule 17 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, you can apply for a duplicate DL at your issuing RTO or online through the Sarathi portal. The duplicate carries the same details and validity as your original licence.
When Can You Apply for a Duplicate DL?
A duplicate driving licence is issued when the original is lost, stolen, destroyed, or mutilated to the point where it is no longer legible. You can also apply if the original DL's photograph has become unrecognizable. The duplicate DL retains the same DL number, categories, and validity period as the original.
- DL lost or misplaced and cannot be found
- DL stolen — FIR required in this case
- DL damaged by water, fire, or physical wear
- Photo or details on the smart card are no longer readable
FIR and Affidavit Requirements
If your DL was stolen, you must file a First Information Report (FIR) at the nearest police station. For lost DLs, some states accept a self-declaration or affidavit in lieu of an FIR. An affidavit on non-judicial stamp paper (typically ₹10-₹50) stating the circumstances of loss is usually required.
The affidavit should mention your full name, DL number, date and place of loss, and a statement that you have not pledged or surrendered the DL elsewhere. Get it notarized for acceptance at the RTO.
Online Application Process
Many states allow duplicate DL applications through the Sarathi portal. Select your state, choose 'Issue of Duplicate DL,' enter your existing DL number, fill the application form, upload the required documents, and pay the fee online. The duplicate DL smart card is dispatched via Speed Post.
- Select 'Issue of Duplicate DL' on Sarathi portal
- Enter your original DL number for record retrieval
- Upload FIR copy/affidavit, photos, and address proof
- Pay the fee online and note the application number
- Track the status online until delivery
Documents Required
- FIR Copy or Affidavit — FIR for stolen DL; notarized affidavit for lost DL
- Identity Proof — Aadhaar card, passport, or voter ID
- Address Proof — Aadhaar, utility bill, or bank statement
- Passport-Size Photos — Recent photos with white background
- Damaged DL (if applicable) — Submit the damaged DL for verification
Duplicate DL Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Duplicate DL Application Fee | ₹200 |
| Smart Card Fee | ₹200 |
| Affidavit/Notarization | ₹50 – ₹100 |
| Total (approx.) | ₹400 – ₹500 |
Steps to Get Duplicate DL
- File FIR or Prepare Affidavit: For stolen DL, file FIR at police station. For lost DL, prepare a notarized affidavit.
- Visit Sarathi Portal: Go to sarathi.parivahan.gov.in and select your state.
- Apply for Duplicate DL: Select 'Issue of Duplicate Driving Licence' and enter your DL number.
- Upload Documents: Upload FIR/affidavit, photos, and identity proof.
- Pay Fee: Pay ₹200-₹400 online via UPI, net banking, or card.
- Receive Duplicate DL: The new smart card is sent by Speed Post in 10-15 working days.
Important Tips
- File the FIR or affidavit immediately after discovering the loss
- Download your e-DL from DigiLocker as a backup while waiting for the physical card
- Keep a photocopy or photo of your DL stored safely in your phone
- The duplicate DL has the same number and validity as the original
- If you find the original after getting a duplicate, surrender the original to the RTO
Key Takeaways
- FIR is needed for stolen DL; a notarized affidavit works for lost DL in most states
- The duplicate DL retains the same DL number, categories, and validity
- Total cost is approximately ₹400-₹500 including all charges
- Most states allow online application through the Sarathi portal
- Use DigiLocker's e-DL as a temporary replacement until the duplicate arrives
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my DL number change on the duplicate?
No, the duplicate driving licence carries the same DL number, vehicle categories, and validity dates as your original. Only the date of issue on the card reflects when the duplicate was issued.
Can I apply for a duplicate DL from a different state?
You must apply at the RTO that originally issued your DL or in the state where the DL was issued. If you have shifted to a different state, first apply for a DL transfer and then request a duplicate if needed.
How long does it take to get a duplicate DL?
The processing time is typically 10-15 working days from the date of application. In some states, the physical smart card may take up to 30 days. Meanwhile, use your e-DL from DigiLocker for driving.
Conclusion
Getting a duplicate driving licence is a simple process that costs under ₹500 and can be largely handled online. Act quickly after discovering the loss, file the necessary police report or affidavit, and use DigiLocker as your interim solution while waiting for the replacement card.
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