Losing your driver’s license can be a frustrating experience, especially if you’re living in a foreign country like Korea. However, the process of replacing a lost or stolen driver’s license in Korea can be quite straightforward if you know what to do. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to replace a lost or stolen driver’s license in Korea.
Step 1: Report the Loss
If you lose your driver’s license in Korea, it’s important to report the loss to the local police office or police station as soon as possible. This is essential to prevent identity theft and fraud. You will need to bring your passport, alien registration card, or any other identification document to the police station. Additionally, it’s advisable to take note of the police report number, as you may need to provide it when you apply for a replacement license.
Step 2: Obtain a Certificate of Loss
After reporting the loss to the police, you will need to obtain a Certificate of Loss from the Driver’s License Examination and Supervision Division of the Korea Transportation Safety Authority. The Certificate of Loss serves as proof that you have lost your driver’s license and allows you to apply for a replacement license. To obtain a Certificate of Loss, you’ll need to bring your passport, alien registration card, driver’s license application form, and a fee of KRW 5,000 to the Driver’s License Examination and Supervision Division.
Step 3: Apply for a Replacement Driver’s License
After obtaining a Certificate of Loss, you’ll need to apply for a replacement driver’s license at the nearest Driver’s License Examination Office. You can find a list of exam centers on the Korea Transportation Safety Authority’s website. To apply for a replacement license, you need to bring your passport, alien registration card, certificate of loss, driver’s license application form, and a recent passport-sized photo. The replacement license fee varies based on the type of license you’re applying for. Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll receive a temporary driver’s license that’s valid for 30 days.fswegweg
Step 4: Receive a New Driver’s License
Within four to five days, you’ll receive a new driver’s license by mail at the address listed on your alien registration card. The new license will have the same expiry date as your previous license, and there is no need to retake the written or driving test.
In Conclusion
While losing your driver’s license can be inconvenient, replacing it in Korea is a fairly straightforward process. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to get a replacement license without any major issues. It’s important to remember to report the loss to the police and obtain a Certificate of Loss, as these are necessary to apply for a new license. As always, it’s advisable to carry a backup form of identification with you in case of any mishaps.