How to Replace a Lost Driver's License and How Long Does It Take?
3 Answers
If a driver's license is lost and the driver has not accumulated 12 penalty points, has undergone timely inspections, and the license has not been revoked, suspended, or canceled, the driver can bring relevant documents (such as identity proof and a written statement of the lost driver's license) to the vehicle management office for replacement. The traffic management department of the public security authority will verify the information with the driver's license records and issue a replacement within 3 days of receiving the application. Here is some information about driver's licenses: 1. Definition: A driver's license (full name: Motor Vehicle Driver's License), also known as a 'driving license,' is a document issued by the government's transportation department to individuals qualified to drive. 2. Requirements for obtaining: To obtain a driver's license, one must meet the minimum age requirement and pass the driving qualification exam.
I once lost my driver's license while driving, and the replacement process was actually quite straightforward. First, you need to prepare your original ID card and a one-inch white-background, bareheaded photo—it's best to have this photo taken at a professional studio to avoid being asked to retake it at the DMV. Then, go to the local DMV or traffic management division to fill out an application form, submit it, and you're done. The replacement usually takes about 3 to 7 working days to get the new license, but in some places, you can get it the same day, especially in big cities where the DMV offers expedited services. I recommend downloading the 12123 app on your phone first—submitting the application online is more convenient. Just upload your photo and ID information, and wait a few days for it to be mailed to your home. The whole process is smooth, but remember not to drive during the replacement period, or you'll get a ticket. After receiving your new license, be sure to check that the name, photo, and number are correct. I once saw a friend whose information was written wrong, and they had to go back again, wasting time.
As a working professional, I prioritize efficiency when replacing my driver's license. After losing my license booklet, the most convenient option is online processing: download the 12123 app, verify identity, fill out the application, upload a personal photo—usually completed in minutes—then wait for mail delivery, typically receiving the new license in 3 to 5 days. If online processing isn't feasible, visiting the vehicle management office with ID and photos for in-person processing is necessary, but expect queues; arriving before 9 AM is advised to minimize wait times. Overall, replacement takes an average of 5-6 days, though urgent cases can inquire about expedited channels—some regions offer same-day issuance. Remember not to drive during the replacement process to avoid fines or accidents. Upon receiving the new license, promptly verify details to ensure travel safety.
