Duplicate Driving Licence Guide - Apply Online through mParivahan
Complete step-by-step guide to apply for a Duplicate Driving Licence if your original DL is lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed. Learn the online application process through Sarathi Parivahan.
What is a Duplicate Driving Licence?
A Duplicate Driving Licence is a replacement document issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) when your original driving licence is lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed. The duplicate licence carries the same details, validity period, and vehicle categories as your original licence.
You do not need to retake any driving test to obtain a duplicate licence. The application process can be completed online through the Sarathi Parivahan portal accessible via mParivahan. This makes it convenient for citizens who have misplaced their driving licence to get a replacement without visiting the RTO multiple times.
Lost DL
Get a replacement for your lost driving licence
Stolen DL
Apply for duplicate if your licence is stolen
Damaged DL
Replace a torn or damaged driving licence
No Retest
No driving test required for duplicate DL
When Should You Apply for a Duplicate DL?
You should apply for a duplicate driving licence as soon as you realize that your original licence is missing or damaged. Driving without a valid driving licence is illegal in India and can result in heavy fines under the Motor Vehicles Act.
It is important to act quickly because traffic police can issue a challan if you are caught driving without a valid licence. Having a duplicate licence ensures that you remain legally compliant while on the road.
- Lost Licence: If you have misplaced your driving licence and cannot find it after a reasonable search, apply for a duplicate immediately.
- Stolen Licence: If your driving licence has been stolen, file an FIR at the nearest police station and then apply for a duplicate through Sarathi Parivahan.
- Damaged Licence: If your driving licence is torn, faded, or otherwise damaged to the point where the information is not readable, you should apply for a replacement.
- Destroyed Licence: If your licence has been destroyed in a fire, flood, or other calamity, you can apply for a duplicate by submitting the destroyed remains along with your application.
- Photograph Mismatch: If the photograph on your driving licence does not match your current appearance, you can apply for a duplicate with an updated photograph.
How to Apply for Duplicate Driving Licence Online
Applying for a duplicate driving licence online through the Sarathi Parivahan portal is a straightforward process. The entire application can be completed from your home without visiting the RTO multiple times.
Follow the step-by-step process below to submit your duplicate DL application successfully. Make sure you have all the required documents ready before starting.
Visit Sarathi Parivahan Portal
Go to parivahan.gov.in and navigate to the Sarathi Parivahan section. Select your state from the dropdown menu and choose the RTO office where your original driving licence was issued. This is important as the duplicate licence will be processed by the same RTO.
Select Duplicate DL Option
Click on "Apply for Duplicate Driving Licence" from the list of services. You will be redirected to the application form. Read the instructions carefully before proceeding with the application.
Enter DL Details
Enter your existing Driving Licence number and date of birth. The system will verify your details from the Sarathi database and display your licence information. Confirm that the details shown match your original licence.
Fill the Application Form (Form LLD)
Complete the LLD form with the reason for applying for a duplicate licence. Select whether your licence is lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed. Provide accurate details about when and how the licence was lost or damaged.
Upload Required Documents
Upload scanned copies of your proof of identity (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, or Passport), proof of address, FIR copy (if the licence is stolen or lost), and passport-size photographs. Ensure all documents are clear and legible.
Pay the Application Fee
Pay the duplicate driving licence fee online using net banking, UPI, debit card, or credit card. The fee is approximately Rs. 250 plus the smart card fee of Rs. 200. Keep the payment receipt for future reference.
Submit and Track Application
After successful payment, submit your application. You will receive an application number that you can use to track the status of your duplicate DL on the Sarathi Parivahan portal or through the mParivahan app.
Documents Required for Duplicate DL Application
Having the right documents ready before starting your application will save you time and prevent delays. The documents required vary depending on the reason for applying for a duplicate licence.
Make sure all documents are valid and the information is consistent across all documents to avoid any issues during verification at the RTO.
| Document Type | Accepted Documents |
|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, Voter ID Card |
| Proof of Address | Aadhaar Card, Passport, Utility Bill (not older than 3 months), Rental Agreement |
| FIR Copy | Required if the licence is lost or stolen (filed at the nearest police station) |
| Original DL | Required if the licence is damaged (submit the damaged licence) |
| Application Form | Form LLD (filled and signed) available on Sarathi Parivahan |
| Photographs | Recent passport-size photographs as per application requirements |
| Fee Receipt | Payment receipt for the duplicate DL fee paid online |
Duplicate Driving Licence Fees
The fees for a duplicate driving licence are set by the state transport department and may vary slightly between states. The following table provides a general overview of the applicable fees across most states in India.
All fees are payable online through the Parivahan Sewa portal using net banking, UPI, debit card, or credit card. Keep the payment receipt as you will need it for reference.
| Fee Component | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Duplicate DL Fee | Rs. 250 |
| Smart Card Fee | Rs. 200 |
| Late Fee (if applicable) | Rs. 50 - Rs. 100 |
| Postal Charges | Rs. 50 - Rs. 100 |
| Total Estimated Cost | Rs. 500 - Rs. 650 |
Offline Process for Duplicate Driving Licence
If you prefer to apply for a duplicate driving licence offline, you can visit your nearest RTO office and submit the application in person. The offline process involves filling out Form LLD, attaching the required documents, and paying the fee at the RTO counter.
While the online process is more convenient, the offline process may be preferred by those who are not comfortable with digital applications. The processing time for offline applications is typically similar to online applications, taking about 2-3 weeks.
Visit the RTO Office
Go to the RTO office where your original driving licence was issued. Carry all the required documents including proof of identity, proof of address, FIR copy (if applicable), and photographs.
Fill Form LLD
Obtain and fill Form LLD (Application for Duplicate Driving Licence) available at the RTO office. Provide the reason for the duplicate application and your original DL details.
Submit Documents and Pay Fee
Submit the filled form along with all required documents at the designated counter. Pay the applicable fee at the fee counter and collect the receipt.
Collect Duplicate DL
After processing, you will be notified to collect your duplicate driving licence. You can either collect it from the RTO office or it will be dispatched to your registered address by post.
Important Tips for Duplicate DL Application
File FIR Immediately
If your licence is lost or stolen, file an FIR at the nearest police station as soon as possible. The FIR copy is mandatory for the duplicate DL application.
Use Official Portal Only
Always apply through the official Parivahan Sewa portal (parivahan.gov.in). Avoid third-party websites that may charge extra fees or compromise your personal information.
Keep Original DL Safe
If your licence is damaged but still readable, keep it safely until you receive the duplicate. Submit the damaged original when collecting the duplicate licence.
Verify DL Details
Before submitting the application, verify that all details in the form match your original driving licence. Incorrect information can lead to application rejection.
Track Application Status
Use the application number to track your duplicate DL status on Sarathi Parivahan or the mParivahan app. This helps you stay informed about the processing progress.
Apply Without Delay
Apply for a duplicate licence as soon as possible after losing the original. Driving without a valid licence is illegal and can result in challans and penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions About Duplicate Driving Licence
Is an FIR mandatory for a duplicate driving licence?
How long does it take to get a duplicate driving licence?
Can I drive while my duplicate DL application is being processed?
Do I need to retake the driving test for a duplicate DL?
What is the fee for a duplicate driving licence?
Can I apply for a duplicate DL from a different state?
What happens if I find my original DL after getting a duplicate?
Can I apply for a duplicate DL online?
Need a Duplicate Driving Licence?
Visit the official Parivahan Sewa portal to apply for your duplicate driving licence online. The process is quick and convenient.
Disclaimer: This is an independent informational website. We are NOT affiliated with the Government of India, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, or the official Parivahan Sewa portal. For official services, visit parivahan.gov.in.