Duplicate Driving Licence Guide: Fees, Documents & How to Apply Online/ Offline

Have you lost your driving licence or had it stolen? Or maybe your existing card has cracked, faded, and has slowly become unreadable over time? Don’t panic–It happens a lot. You can easily apply for a duplicate driving license in India that carries the same legal validity as your original document. 

Whether the damage is accidental or due to theft, it’s important to act quickly to avoid legal complications. This comprehensive guide walks you through all the necessary and critical steps.

Learn how to apply for a duplicate DL, both online via the Parivahan Sarathi portal and offline at your local RTO. We’ll also cover the required documents, fees, application timelines, state-specific rules, and tracking options for 2025.

Ready to learn? Let’s get started.

To apply for a duplicate driving licence, make sure you have the following documents ready:

• Form 2 – Application for issuance of a duplicate driving licence 
• FIR or Police Complaint – Mandatory if the DL has been lost or stolen 
• Copy of Original Driving Licence – If available. If not, your DL number is usually sufficient 
• Proof of Identity – Aadhaar card, Passport, Voter ID, or any government-issued ID 
• Proof of Address – Aadhaar, utility bill, rental agreement, or passport 
• PUC Certificate – Valid pollution under control certificate 
• Insurance Certificate – Of the vehicle associated with the licence 
• Passport-size Photographs – Typically 2 to 3 recent colored photos
  

For commercial driving licence holders, additional documents may be required:

• Fitness Certificate – If the licence is over 15 years old 
• Transport Vehicle Permit – As mandated by your local RTO
  

Always confirm with your RTO office or online portal for any region-specific paperwork.

1. Government Fee Structure (2025)

• Duplicate Non-Transport DL: ₹200 
• Duplicate Transport/Commercial DL: ₹300 
• Late Fee (if applied after expiry): ₹30 
• Smart Card Fee (if applicable): ₹200 (varies by state)
  

2. Estimated Processing Time

• Online Application: 15–30 working days 
• Offline (RTO Submission): 30–45 days depending on backlog and verification
  

While the online process is generally faster, some states may still require physical verification even after online submission.

India’s Ministry of Road Transport and Highways offers a centralized portal called Sarathi Parivahan for applying for a duplicate driving licence digitally. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

Step 1: Access the Portal

• Go to sarathi.parivahan.gov.in 
• Select your State from the dropdown 
• Click on “Driving Licence Services” 
• Choose “Apply for Duplicate Driving Licence”
  

Step 2: Enter Your Licence Details

• Input your Driving Licence Number and Date of Birth 
• The system fetches your details 
• OTP verification will be done via your registered mobile number
  

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

You’ll need to scan and upload:

• Form 2 (duly filled) 
• FIR or complaint copy (if DL is lost/stolen) 
• Identity and address proofs 
• PUC and insurance certificates 
• Passport photos and old DL copy (if available)
  

Step 4: Pay Fees

• Use digital payment modes—UPI, net banking, debit/credit card 
• Ensure the fee breakdown matches your DL type
  

Step 5: Schedule RTO Visit (If Needed)

Some RTOs require an in-person visit for biometric or document verification.

• Schedule your appointment online 
• Visit your RTO with original documents on the given date
  

If you prefer the traditional method or your state doesn’t support full online service, here’s how to apply offline:

Step 1: Visit Your Local RTO

• Go to the same RTO that issued your original DL 
• Collect and fill Form 2 or download it from the Parivahan portal 
• Carry your DL number, FIR, and supporting documents 
• Pay fees via cash or demand draft, as per RTO policy
  

Step 2: Document Verification

• RTO staff will verify your documents 
• You will be issued an acknowledgment slip with a reference number for tracking
  

Step 3: Reissuance & Delivery

• Once processed, your duplicate DL is printed as a smart card 
• Delivery via post may take 30–45 days, depending on location
  

You can track duplicate driver’s license application status online:

Online Tracking (Parivahan)

• Go to sarathi.parivahan.gov.in 
• Click on “Application Status” 
• Enter your Application Number and Date of Birth 
• Status will show: Under Review / Approved / Printed / Dispatched
  

SMS & Email Alerts

• Opt-in for SMS/email updates when applying 
• Notifications will cover each stage: verification, approval, dispatch
  

Learn how different states offers varying services and facilites regarding duplicate drivers licesense:

1. Mumbai (Maharashtra)

• FIRs must be lodged at your local police station 
• Marine Drive RTO and other metro RTOs may offer quicker smart card printing 
• Maharashtra supports Aadhaar-linked faceless DL services
  

2. Karnataka

• Offers contactless duplicate DL services through Aadhaar-based e-verification 
• Suitable for tech-savvy applicants familiar with online portals
  

3. Other States (e.g., UP, Bihar, West Bengal)

• Some still mandate physical presence even for online submissions 
• Check your state RTO portal for the latest rules

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I apply online from a different state?

1. No. You must apply through the RTO that issued your original DL. If you’ve moved, you may first need to transfer the DL to your new address.

2. Is a police FIR mandatory for all duplicate DL requests?

1. Only if the licence is lost or stolen. If your licence is just damaged, you can upload the damaged card as proof without needing an FIR.

3. How long does it take to receive the new DL?

• Online: 15–30 days 
• Offline: 30–45 days
  You’ll receive it via post or can collect from RTO, depending on your application method.

4. Will my duplicate licence have the same number?

Yes, your duplicate DL retains the same licence number and categories. It is a legal replacement of your old card.

Conclusion

Applying for a duplicate driving licence in India is a streamlined process thanks to digital platforms like Parivahan Sarathi. Whether your licence is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a new copy quickly, either online or offline. The cost is minimal, and timelines are generally efficient depending on your region and RTO.

Want to know more in-depth information? Contact Ecozaar to get all the details