How long do I have to replace a lost driver's license?

[KathrynMarie]

After losing a motor vehicle driver's license, you can apply for a replacement at any time as long as it is within the validity period of the license. Simply prepare the required materials and submit a replacement application at the vehicle management office. Below are the specific details for replacing a driver's license: Required Materials: To replace a motor vehicle driver's license, you need to bring the following materials: the 'Motor Vehicle Driver's License Application Form,' the identity proof of the driver, and a written statement declaring the loss of the driver's license. Application Location: Apply for a replacement at the vehicle management office where the driver's license was originally issued or at another vehicle management office outside the original jurisdiction. Processing Time: For eligible drivers, the vehicle management office should issue a replacement driver's license within one day. Replacement Notes: After a motor vehicle driver obtains a replacement driver's license, the original license becomes invalid and must not be used. During the period when a driver's license is legally seized, detained, or temporarily suspended, the driver is not allowed to apply for a replacement.

[SanIan]

If your driver's license is lost, you must apply for a replacement as soon as possible. Although there is no strict legal deadline for how quickly you must do this, driving without a license for too long can result in penalties if caught by traffic police—fines ranging from 200 yuan up to 2,000 yuan, plus potential detention for up to 15 days. The consequences are serious. Last time I lost my license, I went to the DMV the very next day to get a replacement. The process was simple: first, report the loss on the 12123 traffic management app, take a photo, bring your ID, and apply for a new license. It only took two or three days to get it back. If you delay, and an accident happens, the insurance company might refuse to cover the damages, leading to even greater losses. Safety comes first—don’t wait until it’s too late to regret. Act immediately if you lose your license.

[Tom]

I always make it a habit to check my documents when driving. If my driver's license is really lost, I need to deal with it immediately. There's no fixed rule on how many days you must report the loss, but delay is a big no-no: driving without a license not only carries high risks, but if caught, a fine is the least of your worries—you could even be detained for ten to fifteen days. I've checked online myself, and the replacement steps aren't complicated—report it on your phone, then bring your ID and a passport-sized photo to the DMV. It usually takes about a week to sort out. The sooner you get it done, the better, otherwise you'll be driving on edge every day, and it could mess up your travel plans—totally not worth it.

[DiVivienne]

If you lose your driver's license, get it replaced immediately. Regardless of the regulations, delaying too long can cause major driving troubles: fines ranging from hundreds to thousands, and in severe cases, even detention. My experience as a veteran driver is to handle it right away: report the loss online, then visit the DMV in person with your ID. Don't wait—safety comes first.