Whether your Nigerian driver’s licence has expired, gone missing, or been damaged, you do not start from scratch — but each case has its own steps. This guide covers how to renew, replace or get a duplicate Nigerian driver’s licence in 2026, including the police report you need for a lost licence and how to avoid the queues.
Renewing an expired driver’s licence
A renewal re-issues your licence through the FRSC on the NDLS. You will need your old or expired licence, a valid and correctly linked NIN, recent photographs, and payment for your chosen validity (3 or 5 years). Renew before it expires where possible — driving on an expired licence risks a fine.
Replacing a lost or stolen licence
A lost or stolen licence adds one step: a police report. You report the loss, obtain the report, then apply for a replacement with the same details. Because your biometrics are already on the NDLS, a replacement is usually quicker than a first application.
Getting a duplicate (damaged licence)
If your card is damaged or defaced but not lost, you apply for a duplicate — the same licence re-printed. Keep the damaged card to surrender where required.
How it works, step by step
1. Confirm your NIN
It must be active and match the name on your licence record.
2. Get a police report (lost/stolen only)
Report the loss and collect the report and any affidavit required.
3. Apply and pay
Submit the renewal, replacement or duplicate request and pay the official fee.
4. Capture if required, then collect
You may need a fresh photo capture; then collect your temporary licence and the reprinted card.
Let RenewPapers handle your driver’s licence
We complete your FRSC application, prepare every document, book your capture appointment at a centre with real availability, and track the licence through to collection — submitting on your behalf or putting a vetted person in the queue for you. It all stays in your RenewPapers wallet, so your next renewal takes minutes. No touts, no wasted trips, no time off work.
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- Expired: old licence + NIN + photos + fee
- Lost or stolen: the above + police report (+ affidavit where required)
- Damaged: the above + the damaged card to surrender
New driver, or need the full first-time process? See how to apply for a new driver’s licence.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. FRSC requirements and fees change; confirm the current process before you apply.
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