What should I do if I lose my driver's license? The latest guide from across the web is here!
In the past 10 days, discussions about lost driver's licenses have continued to rise, with many netizens asking for help on related procedures on social platforms. This article will combine the latest policies and real experience of netizens to sort out complete solutions for you, and attach structured data for quick reference.
1. Emergency steps after losing your driver’s license

| steps | Specific operations | Things to note |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Report loss and record | Immediately report to the local vehicle management office | Can be operated online through 12123APP |
| 2. Prepare materials | Original ID card + copy, 1-inch color photo with white background | Some areas require a residence permit |
| 3. Reissue application | Submit application at the vehicle management office window or online | Online processing requires real-name authentication |
| 4. Pay fees | Cost of production ranges from 10 to 30 yuan | Support electronic payment |
2. Latest reissue policy changes in 2023
According to the new regulations of the Ministry of Transportation in August:
1. The electronic driver’s license has the same validity as the paper version. If lost, the electronic version can be used first.
2. The number of pilot cities for cross-provincial applications has increased to 45, and temporary residence permits are not required for re-issuance in other places.
3. The time limit for reissue is shortened from 3 working days to 24 hours (limited to areas where express delivery services have been opened)
3. Comparison of reissue efficiency in major cities across the country
| city | Processing channels | Average time taken | Special services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beijing | online/offline | 1 working day | 24-hour self-service hall |
| Shanghai | Full online process | 6 hours | Electronic driver's license takes effect immediately |
| Guangzhou | Police and postal cooperation | 2 working days | Free express delivery |
| Chengdu | Community agency | 3 working days | Night check-in service |
4. Five high-frequency issues that netizens are most concerned about
1.Q: Can I drive during the reissue period?
A: If you hold an electronic driver's license or traffic control 12123 electronic voucher, you can drive normally, otherwise you will be driving without a license.
2.Q: What should I do if someone else uses it illegally?
A: Call the police immediately and register with the vehicle management office. You can apply for special marking to prevent misuse.
3.Q: How to replace lost items abroad?
A: Apply for renewal through the Chinese Consulate APP, or reissue it at the place of issue after returning to the country.
4.Q: Can photos be changed?
A: You can submit a new photo for replacement when re-issuing, but it must meet the driver's license photo standards.
5.Q: Will there be any penalties for multiple losses?
A: If you re-apply more than 3 times in a year, you need to explain the situation in person and may be included in key supervision.
5. Practical suggestions for preventing loss
1. Immediately apply for an electronic driver’s license on the Traffic Management 121 APP
2. Use an anti-lost locator (such as a card package smart tracker)
3. Copy the driver’s license and ID card and store them separately.
4. Avoid arbitrarily pledging your driver’s license to a third party
5. Regularly check the validity period and storage status of certificates
According to big data statistics, 90% of reissue applications can be completed within 3 days. It is recommended that drivers keep the contents of this table in their collection and follow the steps to handle it quickly when their documents are lost. If you discover illegal activities such as buying and selling, forging driver's licenses, etc., please call 122 to report it immediately.
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