How do I replace a lost Zimbabwe driver's licence?

Replacing a lost driver's licence preserves an existing entitlement; it does not create new codes, extend an expired qualification automatically or excuse driving when the law requires the physical document. For this procedure, report theft or suspicious loss promptly, gather the licence details that remain available and ask CVR for the current duplicate or replacement route before using a new-card booking page intended for another cohort.

Decide before you apply

First decide whether the document is lost, stolen, damaged, expired or merely retained elsewhere. Replacement, renewal and correction are different services, and choosing the wrong one can leave the original record unresolved.

Choose the lost driver's licence replacement category from the activity and evidence in this case, not from whichever form appears quickest. A lost driver's licence replacement category mismatch can delay the request even when the later paperwork is complete.

If this applies to your situation, read our guide on replace a lost Zimbabwe driver's licence.

Prepare the evidence

Start with the original national identity card or accepted passport matching the driver record, a police report or sworn loss statement where CVR requires one or theft is suspected, the old licence number, DG number, copy, photograph or other data that helps locate the record, and the current replacement or duplicate-card application. Before scanning the lost driver's licence replacement papers, check the names, numbers and dates across the set. Use the lost driver's licence replacement originals for inspection and copies or uploads for retention in the format specified for this service.

Work through the application

1. Record when and where the licence disappeared and report suspected theft through the instructed police route.
2. Contact CVR with the holder's national ID and available licence details to confirm the replacement category and checklist.
3. Complete the duplicate application, link any name change and pay through the official channel.
4. Attend for identity verification and biometric capture if directed, then retain the tracking and collection evidence.
5. Inspect the replacement codes and details, and notify CVR if the old card is later recovered instead of using both.

Before leaving the lost driver's licence replacement counter or portal, note the reference, current status and next action. Those three details allow the Central Vehicle Registry (CVR) to trace the request if the expected update does not arrive.

Protect the final result

The replacement card should reproduce the authorised codes and accurate personal details, while the lost card is recorded as no longer valid where the system provides for cancellation.

Keep a secure copy of the replacement application and new card, but mask unnecessary identity details when sharing proof with an employer or insurer.

A practical distinction for lost driver's licence replacement

Reconstruct the lost card's identity before applying: licence number, national ID, authorised codes, approximate issue date and the VID centre linked to the original test. Even partial reliable data helps CVR distinguish the driver from someone with a similar name.

Check the lost driver's licence replacement file as a whole

Read a police report or sworn loss statement where CVR requires one or theft is suspected alongside formal name-change evidence if the identity document differs from the lost licence record. In this lost driver's licence replacement step-by-step procedure, they should describe the same person, transaction and time period; if they do not, explain the difference with reliable evidence before submission.

Official sources

• Ministry of Transport — Central Vehicle Registry
• Road Traffic (Licensing of Drivers) Regulations, 2023
• Ministry of Transport — Vehicle Inspectorate Department

Before paying or travelling, confirm the latest fee, accepted payment method and office arrangements with the Vehicle Inspectorate Department, Central Vehicle Registry or other named authority.