How to Get Duplicate Driving License if Lost
Lost your license — here's what to do right now
First priority: file an FIR at the nearest police station. Not because you're a crime victim, but because your lost license has your name, CNIC, photo, and address — all the ingredients for identity fraud. The FIR creates a legal timestamp that protects you if someone uses your lost license for anything shady. It takes 20 minutes and costs nothing — there's no reason to delay.
Second: download your e-license from dlims.punjab.gov.pk or the DLIMS app as a temporary driving document. The digital version shows your license status is valid in the system even without the physical card. Then book a DLIMS appointment for duplicate issuance. You don't need to retake any test — DLIMS has your complete record digitally. The office verifies your biometrics (confirming you are who you say you are), and a replacement smart card is printed within 7-15 days. The whole thing costs Rs. 500-1,000 — less than one decent restaurant meal.
Visit DLIMS with CNIC + FIR (for lost). Fee: Rs. 500-1,000. No re-test needed — DLIMS reprints from existing records in 7-15 days.
Related: apply for license, renewal, documents needed.
Duplicate License — Process Comparison
| Situation | Documents Needed | Fee | Processing Time | Test Required? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| License lost/stolen | CNIC + FIR | Rs. 500-1,000 | 7-15 days | No |
| License damaged | CNIC + damaged card | Rs. 500-1,000 | 7-15 days | No |
| License lost + expired | CNIC + FIR | Rs. 1,000-2,000 | 7-15 days | No (renewed + duplicate) |
| Name/address change | CNIC + old license + proof | Rs. 500-1,000 | 7-15 days | No |
What to Do Immediately When Your License Is Lost
Step 1 — File FIR (same day): Go to your nearest police station and file a First Information Report for your lost license. This is essential for two reasons: it protects you if someone misuses your lost license for identity fraud, and DLIMS requires the FIR copy before issuing a duplicate. The FIR is free to file — don't pay anyone who claims otherwise.
Step 2 — Use your e-license temporarily: If you previously downloaded your e-license from the DLIMS portal, use it as a temporary driving document while your duplicate is being processed. It shows your license is valid in the DLIMS system even though you don't have the physical card. Download it at dlims.punjab.gov.pk if you haven't already — it's a good backup to have regardless.
Step 3 — Visit DLIMS (within a week): Go to any DLIMS office with your CNIC, FIR copy, and two photographs. Your biometrics are re-verified against the DLIMS database (confirming you are who you claim to be), and a duplicate smart card is ordered. Collect in 7-15 days or opt for courier delivery.
Download e-license as backup: e-license guide. Verify your license status: CNIC verification. Need renewal too? Combine duplicate + renewal in one visit: renewal process.
Prevention is better than replacement: photograph both sides of your driving license and store the images in cloud storage. If your license is ever lost, you have the license number, categories, and issue date immediately available — information that speeds up both the FIR filing and the DLIMS duplicate application.
Report loss immediately. A lost driving license contains your name, CNIC number, photo, and address — enough information for identity fraud. The FIR creates a legal timestamp protecting you from liability for any misuse. Don't delay — file the FIR the day you realize the license is gone.
Always verify current requirements. Fees, timelines, and document requirements can change without advance notice. Check the relevant official website or call the office before your visit to confirm the latest requirements.