How to Get a Duplicate Driving Licence if Lost in India (2026) — Online & Offline Step-by-Step Guide

 

 

My driving licence once played hide and seek so well, I almost congratulated it for winning. Losing it can flip a normal day upside down. You check jeans, bags, drawers, even that random shelf near the door. Then the worry kicks in. Who knows what tomorrow? Maybe you'll be pulled over.

The process of obtaining an Indian driver's license duplicate in the year 2026 is more easier than in the past. The use of online services has reduced wait times and procedures at RTO offices are now more transparent. There is a little maze that may appear at first while dealing with paperwork, payments and document checks. Do you apply online and save travel time? Or is visiting the RTO easier for your case? How long will it take before the new licence reaches your hand? The answers are simpler than most people expect. Read the article below to learn every step and get your duplicate licence without extra hassle.
 

What Is a Duplicate Driving Licence?

A duplicate driving licence is simply a replacement copy of your original licence. Nothing new is added. Your licence number stays the same. Your driving rights stay the same. It exists for one reason only - to replace a licence that is lost, stolen, torn, faded, or damaged beyond use.

In India, the transport department treats a duplicate licence as an official reissue. It is valid everywhere your original licence was valid. And this matters more than people think. A driving licence is not just a card in your wallet. It is proof that you are legally allowed to drive. Without it, even a small traffic stop can turn into a long explanation. In case of an accident, insurance companies may also ask for it during claim checks.

So if your licence goes missing, the right move is not to wait or hope it turns up. The right move is to apply for a duplicate and get it back in your pocket.
 

Who Can Apply for a Duplicate Driving Licence in India?

Not everyone needs a fresh licence. A duplicate is meant for very specific situations. If any of these sound familiar, you are eligible.

• If Your Licence is Lost
  This is the most common case. Wallet stolen. Bag misplaced. Licence dropped somewhere and never found again.
• If Your Licence is Stolen
  In theft cases, a police complaint is usually needed. It helps confirm that the loss was not intentional.
• If Your Licence is Damaged
  Cards crack, lamination peels, ink fades. If the details are no longer readable, you can apply.
• If Your Licence is Mutilated or Torn
  Even if the number is visible, a badly damaged licence can cause trouble during checks. A duplicate solves that.
• If Your Licence Details Still Exist in the System
  Your driving record should be available with the RTO or on the Parivahan portal. Most licences issued in recent years are already digitised, which makes the process easier.

But here is the part many people miss. A duplicate licence can be issued only to the original licence holder. So, you must apply in your own name, using your own details.
 

Documents Required for Duplicate Driving Licence (2026)

Before you start the application, it helps to gather your papers in one place. And yes, most delays happen when one small document is missing. The good part is, the list is not long. Here is what you will usually need:

• Application Form (Form LLD)
• Original Licence Details (if available)
• FIR or Police Complaint (for lost or stolen licence)
• Identity Proof
• Address Proof
• Passport Size Photos
• Application Fee Payment Proof

And here is a small but important point. Your licence details must exist in the transport database. Most licences issued in recent years are already digitised, so the process is smoother now than it was earlier. And once your duplicate licence is issued, keep copies saved. This helps later during car insurance purchase, renewal, or claims through platforms like SMC Insurance, where correct licence records help avoid delays.
 

How to Get a Duplicate Driving Licence Online in India?

Applying online is now the easiest route for most people. You don’t need to stand in long queues. And in many states, you may not even need to visit the RTO.

Here is how the process usually works:

• Step 1: Go to the official Parivahan Portal website and select your state.
• Step 2: Then select the option for a duplicate driving licence.
• Step 3: You will be asked for a licence number, date of birth, or registered mobile number.
• Step 4: Fill the Duplicate Licence Application (Form LLD)
• Step 5: Upload ID proof, address proof, FIR copy if needed and photo if asked.
• Step 6: Pay the application fee through net banking, UPI, or card.
• Step 7: Book a slot (if required) as some states ask for biometric or document verification at RTO.
• Step 8: You will get an application number. Save it. This is how you track progress.

And once approved, your duplicate licence is sent by post or made available for download in some states.
 

How to Get a Duplicate Driving Licence Offline?

Some people still prefer visiting the RTO. And honestly, it can be helpful if your case is slightly complicated or your licence record is very old.

Here is how the offline method usually goes:

• Step 1: Go to the same RTO that issued your original licence, if possible.
• Step 2: Collect Form LLD and fill it carefully. Ask staff if you are unsure of any field.
• Step 3: Attach ID proof, address proof, FIR copy (if licence was lost or stolen) and photos.
• Step 4: Submit the application at the counter where the officer will check your documents and verify records.
• Step 5: Pay the fee at the RTO cash counter or through their payment desk.
• Step 6: Some RTOs may do biometric or signature verification.
• Step 7: Collect acknowledgement slips and keep this slip safe as it is proof that you applied.

After processing, your duplicate licence is printed and sent to your registered address or kept ready for pickup, depending on the RTO.
 

Fees for Duplicate Driving Licence in India (2026)

Now comes the part most people check first. The cost. And the good news is, getting a duplicate licence is not very expensive in India. The fee is set by the transport department, so it stays mostly similar across states, with small local changes in some places. Here is a simple snapshot so you know what to expect:

And yes, these are typical 2026 ranges based on current transport department structures. Exact costs can shift slightly from state to state.
 

Processing Time for Duplicate Driving Licence

Most people expect instant delivery. But government document work still needs some time. The good part is, it is faster now than it was a few years ago. Here is what usually happens:

• Online Applications: Usually processed in 7 to 15 working days if documents are correct.
• Offline Applications: Can take 15 to 30 working days, depending on RTO workload.
• If Police Verification Is Needed: Time may increase slightly.
• If License Record Is Old or Not Digitised: Extra verification may be needed, which can slow things down.
• Dispatch Time: After approval, delivery by post may take another few days.

And one small tip that saves time - always double check spelling, licence number and uploaded documents. Most delays happen because of simple mismatches.
 

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Application

Most duplicate licence applications fail or get delayed for very small reasons. Things people usually don’t think twice about. But those small slips can cost you weeks.

Keep an eye on these points:

• Entering the wrong licence number or date of birth. Even one digit off can stop the system from pulling your record.
• Skipping the FIR when the licence is lost or stolen. Some states allow you to move ahead without it online, but the RTO may still ask later and pause your application.
• Uploading unclear documents. Blurry photos, cut corners, or unreadable text often lead to rejection.
• Using an old or inactive mobile number. Updates and OTPs are sent to the registered number and missing them slows everything.
• Applying at the wrong RTO. If your original licence was issued elsewhere, the system may take longer to verify details.
• Waiting too long after losing the licence. Long gaps sometimes raise questions and can invite extra checks.
• Ignoring spelling mismatches. Name differences between Aadhaar, licence records and application form can create unnecessary back and forth.
• Not saving the acknowledgement or application number. Without it, tracking or follow ups become difficult.

And one more thing people often overlook. Your driving licence is also a key document for motor insurance. During policy purchase or claims through platforms like SMC Insurance, incorrect or missing licence details can slow the process.

 

 

Wrapping Up

Losing your driving licence can be stressful. But getting a duplicate today is much easier than before. And with online services now active across most states, the process is faster and more straightforward.

The key is simple: keep your documents ready, enter correct details and apply as soon as you notice the loss. A valid licence is not just needed for driving legally, it also helps during vehicle insurance work, traffic checks and identity verification. So don’t delay the application once your licence goes missing.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this platform is intended for general awareness and educational purposes. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, some details may change with policy updates, regulatory revisions, or insurer-specific modifications. Readers should verify current terms and conditions directly with relevant insurers or through professional consultation before making any decision.

All views and analyses presented are based on publicly available data, internal research, and other sources considered reliable at the time of writing. These do not constitute professional advice, recommendations, or guarantees of any product’s performance. Readers are encouraged to assess the information independently and seek qualified guidance suited to their individual requirements. Customers are advised to review official sales brochures, policy documents and disclosures before proceeding with any purchase or commitment.