What should I do if I lose my Shanghai driver’s license?
A driver's license is a necessary document for driving a motor vehicle. If it is accidentally lost, it needs to be replaced in time to avoid affecting normal travel. The following is the processing procedure, required materials and related precautions after a Shanghai driver's license is lost to help you solve the problem quickly.
1. The process of applying for a new driver’s license

Renewal of a driver's license can be processed online or offline. The specific procedures are as follows:
| Processing method | Specific steps |
|---|---|
| Online processing | 1. Log in to the “Traffic Control 12123” APP or the official website of the Traffic Police Corps of Shanghai Public Security Bureau. 2. Select the "Driving License Replacement" business. 3. Fill in the relevant information and upload the required materials. 4. Pay the production fee and choose to have it mailed or picked up. |
| Offline processing | 1. Go to the traffic police detachment or vehicle management office in each district of Shanghai. 2. Fill out the "Motor Vehicle Driving License Application Form". 3. Submit ID card, photos and other materials. 4. Pay the production fee and receive a new driver's license. |
2. Materials required for replacement of driver’s license
Whether applying online or offline, you need to prepare the following materials:
| Material name | Specific requirements |
|---|---|
| ID card | Original and copy (front and back) |
| Driver's License Lost Statement | You can fill it out on site at the vehicle management office or print it out yourself. |
| Recent bareheaded photos | 2 1-inch color photos with white background |
| Cost of production | 10 yuan (pay online or pay on site) |
3. Precautions
1.Report loss promptly: After losing your driver’s license, it is recommended to report the loss through the “Traffic Management 12123” APP or go to the vehicle management office as soon as possible to avoid being used by others.
2.Processing time limit: Online processing usually takes 3-5 working days, and offline processing can be collected on the spot (some vehicle management offices may require 1-2 working days).
3.Reissue in another place: If the driver's license is issued out of town, it needs to be reissued at the place of issuance; if you live in Shanghai for a long time, you can apply to transfer to Shanghai and then reissue it.
4.Temporary driving certificate: If you need a car for emergency use, you can apply for a temporary driving certificate, which is generally valid for 30 days.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
| question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I still drive after losing my driver's license? | No, you need to get a new certificate before you can drive a motor vehicle. |
| Is a physical examination required to renew a driver's license? | No, unless the driver's license has expired and needs to be renewed. |
| What should I do if I find the original driver’s license after applying for a replacement? | The original driver's license is invalid and cannot be used anymore. |
5. Addresses and contact information of vehicle management offices in each district of Shanghai
| area | address | Contact number |
|---|---|---|
| Pudong New Area | No. 1920 Longdong Avenue | 021-58999390 |
| Xuhui District | No. 9801, Humin Road | 021-64868936 |
| Jing'an District | No. 3550 Gonghe New Road | 021-56316610 |
| Huangpu District | No. 88, Lujiabang Road | 021-63461756 |
Summary
There is no need to panic after losing your driver's license, just prepare the materials according to the above process and get a replacement as soon as possible. It is recommended to give priority to online processing to save time. At the same time, keep your new driver's license safe to avoid the inconvenience of losing it again.
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