What if your driving license is lost and the police catch you?

What if your driving license is lost and the police catch you, here’s what you should do:

1. Explain the Situation to the Police:

– Politely inform the officer that your driving license is lost.
– Mention that you are in the process of getting a duplicate license issued (if you’ve already applied).
– If you have any proof of the license or its application, such as an acknowledgment slip, be sure to show it to the officer. Additionally, this documentation can help facilitate the process and provide evidence of your claim.
– If possible, you can also show your license digitally through DigiLocker or mParivahan, if you’ve saved a digital copy before losing it.

2. Penalties:

– If you don’t have any valid proof or a digital copy, the police may still impose a fine for driving without a license. The fine can be up to ₹5,000 as per the Motor Vehicles Act, 2019.
– The police may allow you to get someone with a valid license to take over the driving, or you may face vehicle seizure until you can produce the license.

3. Steps to Get a Duplicate Driving License:

If your license is lost, you should apply for a duplicate as soon as possible. Here’s how to do it:

Step-by-Step Process:

1. File an FIR:

To address the situation of a lost driving license, you should visit the nearest police station to file a First Information Report (FIR). Alternatively, in some regions, you may be able to file an e-FIR online. Thus, you have the option to choose the method that is most convenient for you.

2. Get an Affidavit:

Subsequently, visit a notary and get an affidavit declaring the loss of your driving license. Thus, this is a legal statement that you’ll need to submit with your application.

3. Visit the RTO:

Afterward, go to your local Regional Transport Office (RTO) and collect the duplicate license application form, or alternatively, apply online via the Parivahan Sewa website.

4. Submit the Required Documents:

– FIR copy or police report
– Affidavit declaring loss
– Address proof (Aadhaar, Passport, etc.)
– Passport-sized photographs
– Application form for a duplicate license

5. Pay the Fee:

Pay the required fee for the duplicate license, which varies between ₹200–₹500 depending on the state. Also, be punctual with your fine to avoid other issues and challenges.

6. Collect Your License:

After submitting your application, you will receive a duplicate license either on the same day or within a few days, depending on the RTO.

4. Digital Alternatives:

While you wait for your duplicate license, you can use the DigiLocker or mParivahan apps to store and access a digital version of your driving license. Therefore, you can legally use these digital licenses across India and show them to police officers.

By following these steps, you can avoid future penalties and ensure you always have some form of proof of your license.  Thus, your driving license is lost and the police catch you, now you already know what to do.

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