How to Apply for Duplicate Driving Licence Online in India

When Do You Need a Duplicate Driving Licence?

You can apply for a duplicate Driving Licence (DL) if your original licence is:

• Lost — misplaced or cannot be found
• Stolen — taken by someone else
• Damaged — torn, mutilated, or unreadable
• Completely destroyed — in fire, flood, or other accident

The duplicate DL will have the same details, validity, and vehicle classes as your original licence. It is a legal replacement — not a new licence.

Important: If your DL has expired, you need to apply for DL renewal instead, not a duplicate.

Documents Required

Mandatory for all cases:

• Application in Form LLD (available on Sarathi portal)
• Passport-size photographs (2-3)
• Aadhaar Card (for e-KYC verification)
• Proof of address (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, or utility bill)
• Self-declaration about loss/damage

If DL is lost or stolen:

• FIR copy or online police complaint receipt from the nearest police station or the National Cybercrime Portal
• Affidavit on stamp paper (₹10-₹50 depending on state) declaring the loss

If DL is damaged:

• Original damaged DL (must be submitted)

Additional (if available):

• Photocopy of the old DL (front and back)
• DL number (check old documents, DigiLocker, or mParivahan app if you don't remember)

Tip: Check the mParivahan app or DigiLocker — your DL details may already be stored there digitally.

How to Apply for Duplicate DL Online (Sarathi Portal)

Step 1: Visit the Sarathi Portal

Go to sarathi.parivahan.gov.in and select your state from the dropdown.

Step 2: Select "Duplicate DL" Service

On the services page, click on "Issue of Duplicate Driving License" or look for "DL Services" → "Duplicate DL".

Step 3: Enter Your DL Number

Enter your existing DL number and date of birth. The system will fetch your records from the database.

Don't know your DL number? Check DigiLocker, mParivahan app, old challans, or visit your RTO with an ID proof to retrieve it.

Step 4: Fill the Application Form

• Verify your personal details (name, address, father's name)
• Select reason for duplicate: Lost / Stolen / Damaged / Destroyed
• Upload required documents (photo, address proof, FIR copy if applicable)
• Provide the FIR number and date (for lost/stolen DL)

Step 5: Pay the Fee Online

Pay the duplicate DL fee using net banking, debit card, credit card, or UPI.

Note: Fees vary slightly by state. The exact amount will be shown on the Sarathi portal during payment. Some states may charge additional fees.

Step 6: Book Appointment (if required)

Some states require you to visit the RTO for verification. Book an appointment slot through the portal.

Step 7: Visit RTO (if required)

Carry the following to the RTO on your appointment date:

• Printed application receipt
• Original documents for verification
• FIR copy (for lost/stolen)
• Damaged DL (if applying due to damage)

Step 8: Receive Your Duplicate DL

After verification, the duplicate DL is dispatched to your registered address via Speed Post. You can track the status on the Sarathi portal.

How to Apply Offline at RTO

If you prefer the offline route or the online option is not available in your state:

1. File an FIR at the nearest police station (for lost/stolen DL)
2. Get an affidavit on stamp paper declaring the loss/damage
3. Visit your RTO and collect Form LLD (or download from Parivahan website)
4. Fill the form and attach all required documents
5. Submit the form at the RTO counter along with the fee
6. Collect the receipt — your duplicate DL will be dispatched or available for collection within 15–30 days

Lost DL vs Damaged DL — What's Different?

Processing Time

• Online applications: 7–30 days depending on the state and verification process
• Offline applications: 15–30 days
• Smart Card DL dispatch: Additional 7–10 days for printing and delivery via Speed Post

You can track your application status on the Sarathi portal using your application number.

State RTO Differences

The duplicate DL process is largely the same across India since all states use the Sarathi portal. However, there are some differences:

• Fee amounts may vary by ₹50–₹200 between states
• Some states allow fully online processing without RTO visit
• Some states still require a mandatory RTO visit for verification
• FIR requirement is strict in some states (like Delhi, Maharashtra) and relaxed in others
• Processing time varies — metro RTOs tend to be faster

Always check the Sarathi portal for your specific state's requirements.

Important Tips

• File the FIR immediately if your DL is lost or stolen — don't delay
• Keep a photocopy of your DL at home and a photo on your phone
• Download your DL on DigiLocker or mParivahan app — the digital copy is legally valid for carrying while driving
• Don't apply for a new DL — applying for a fresh DL when you already have one is illegal
• Check validity first — if your DL is expiring soon, apply for renewal with duplicate together

FAQ

1. Can I drive with a digital DL from DigiLocker while waiting for the duplicate?

Yes. The digital Driving Licence available on DigiLocker and mParivahan app is legally valid and accepted by traffic police across India. You can use it while your duplicate DL is being processed.

2. Is FIR mandatory for a lost Driving Licence?

In most states, yes. An FIR or online police complaint is mandatory when applying for a duplicate DL due to loss or theft. Some states accept a self-declaration affidavit instead. Check your state RTO's requirements on the Sarathi portal.

3. How much does a duplicate Driving Licence cost?

The total cost is approximately ₹450–₹500, which includes the duplicate DL fee (₹200), smart card fee (₹200), and processing charges. Exact fees vary by state.

4. Can I apply for a duplicate DL from a different state?

You need to apply at the RTO that originally issued your DL. If you have shifted to a new state, first transfer your DL to the new state RTO, then apply for a duplicate. Alternatively, some states allow online applications regardless of your current location.

5. How long does it take to get a duplicate Driving Licence?

Typically 7–30 days depending on your state and whether an RTO visit is required. The physical smart card DL is dispatched via Speed Post after approval.

6. What if I don't remember my DL number?

You can find your DL number through DigiLocker, mParivahan app, old traffic challans, insurance documents, or by visiting your RTO with valid ID proof. The Sarathi portal also has a "Know Your DL Number" option in some states.

7. Can I get a duplicate DL if my original DL has expired?

No. If your DL has expired, you need to apply for DL renewal instead. You can apply for renewal and mention that the original is lost/damaged during that process.

Related Guides

• How to Apply for Driving Licence Online
• How to Renew Driving Licence Online
• How to Apply for International Driving Permit
• Lost Documents Replacement Guide