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Driving Licences

Replacing a lost or stolen driving licence

What to do if your Spanish driving licence is lost or stolen, and how to get a replacement.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-15Online requests are often processed within days to a couple of weeks; in-person requests depend on appointment availability.

This guide is not yet verified by Tuchati's editorial review — treat it as a helpful starting point, not a final legal answer.

Overview

Losing your driving licence doesn't affect your underlying right to drive — it simply means you need a replacement card (duplicado) showing your existing, valid licence details.

Requirements

  • Applies to holders of a Spanish driving licence that's been lost, stolen, or damaged

Step-by-step process

  • If stolen, consider filing a police report (denuncia), particularly if you're concerned about identity misuse
  • Request a duplicate licence through the DGT's electronic office (Sede Electrónica) if you hold a digital certificate or Cl@ve, or in person at a Jefatura de Tráfico
  • Pay the applicable duplicate-issuance fee
  • In the meantime, the DGT app's digital licence (if you'd previously activated it) or a provisional document can often serve as valid proof while the physical card is reissued

Required documents

  • ID (passport, NIE or TIE)
  • Police report, if filed
  • Passport-style photo, if required by your specific application method

Common mistakes

  • Assuming you can't legally drive at all until the physical replacement arrives — check what provisional proof your specific situation allows
  • Not filing a police report for a stolen licence when it later turns out to matter for an identity-related issue

Practical tips

  • The DGT's official app (miDGT) lets you carry a digital version of your licence, recognised as valid ID for traffic stops — worth activating in advance so you're not solely dependent on the physical card
  • Keep a photo of your licence (front and back) somewhere secure as a personal backup reference

How Tuchati can help

Tuchati can help you understand what's valid to use while your replacement is processed, and guide you through the request.

Replacing a lost or stolen driving licence — Help Centre — Tuchati