Quick Guide: Replacing a Lost Driving Licence in India

A lost driving licence does not have to become a road‑block. The Indian Transport Ministry offers a clear pathway to obtain a duplicate. First, approach the local police station to record the loss; a written statement or FIR is essential. Prepare your supporting documents – a valid photo ID, address proof, and two passport‑size photos.

Proceed to your nearest Regional Transport Office or log in to the state’s e‑services portal. Fill out the duplicate licence form, upload the scanned documents, and pay the duplication charge, which differs across states but generally falls between INR 150 and INR 400. After submission, you may receive a provisional licence instantly, while the permanent duplicate is dispatched by post within two weeks.

Track your application through the portal using the transaction ID. In case of any discrepancy, the transport authority can be contacted via the helpline provided on the website. Retaining a digital copy of the acknowledgement will help if further verification is required.