How to Get a Duplicate Voter ID Card If Lost

If you have lost your physical Voter ID card, also known as the Elector Photo Identity Card (EPIC), you can apply for a replacement through the Election Commission of India (ECI). Existing registered voters can use Form 8 and select the replacement EPIC option. You may also need to submit a copy of the FIR or police report regarding the lost card, as required by the official instructions.

What Is a Duplicate or Replacement Voter ID Card?

A replacement Voter ID card is issued to an already registered elector when the original EPIC has been lost, damaged or become unusable, subject to the applicable rules. It is not a fresh voter registration application.

If your name is already included in the electoral roll, you generally need to apply for replacement of your existing EPIC rather than register again as a new voter. The replacement process is handled by the competent election authorities after verification.

How to Apply for a Duplicate Voter ID Card Online

1. Visit the official portal: Open the ECI Voters’ Services Portal.
2. Log in or register: Sign in to your account or create one by following the instructions on the portal.
3. Open Form 8: Go to the Forms section and choose Form 8, which covers correction, shifting of residence, replacement EPIC and marking PwD.
4. Select replacement EPIC: Choose the option for replacement of your existing EPIC and make sure you do not accidentally select new voter registration.
5. Enter your voter details: Provide your name, EPIC number and other information requested by the form. If you do not know your EPIC number, search for your voter record through the official electoral search service.
6. Provide the reason: Indicate that your original Voter ID card has been lost.
7. Attach the required document: Upload a copy of the FIR or police report for the lost card if required by the current form instructions.
8. Review and submit: Check your details, submit the application and save the reference number or acknowledgement.
9. Track your application: Use the official application tracking service to check progress and follow any additional instructions from the election authorities.

Apply for Replacement Voter ID

Open the official Forms page

Documents Required for a Duplicate Voter ID

The documents required may depend on the circumstances and the current instructions. Prepare the following where applicable:

• Your EPIC or Voter ID number, if available
• A copy of the FIR or police report relating to the lost card, as required by the official instructions
• Your registered mobile number and contact details
• Any additional information or documents specifically requested by the portal or Electoral Registration Officer (ERO)
• Your application reference number after submission, for tracking purposes

Do not upload unrelated documents or provide false information. Follow the latest Form 8 instructions and any document requirements displayed during the application.

Is an FIR or Police Report Required If Your Voter ID Is Lost?

The Election Commission of India Form 8 guidelines state that an applicant seeking replacement of a lost EPIC should submit a copy of the FIR or police report. Requirements should be checked against the current official instructions before submitting your application.

If the card is damaged or mutilated and you still have it, the applicable instructions may require you to return the old card instead. Select the reason that accurately describes your situation and follow the document requirements shown by the official service.

Read the official Form 8 guidelines (PDF)

What Is the Fee for a Duplicate Voter ID Card?

An ECI FAQ has listed a fee of ₹25 for issuing a replacement EPIC when the original card is lost. It also mentions that the fee may not be charged when the loss occurs due to circumstances beyond the elector’s control, such as a flood, fire or another natural disaster.

Because fees and procedures may be revised, confirm the applicable amount with the official portal or your local Electoral Registration Officer before making payment. Do not pay an unofficial agent or use an unverified payment link.

Read the ECI FAQ about replacement EPIC

How to Apply Offline for a Replacement Voter ID

If you cannot complete the online process, you can seek assistance from the election officials responsible for your area.

1. Contact your Booth Level Officer (BLO), Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) or a designated voter registration centre.
2. Ask for Form 8 and select the replacement EPIC option.
3. Fill in the required personal and voter registration details.
4. Attach the required FIR or police report for the lost card, as instructed.
5. Submit the form to the authorised official and request an acknowledgement.
6. Keep the acknowledgement or reference number so you can follow up on the application.

How to Track Your Duplicate Voter ID Application

1. Open the official Voters’ Services Portal.
2. Select the application status tracking service.
3. Enter the reference number or other details requested by the portal.
4. Submit the information and review the displayed status.
5. If the application is pending or requires additional information, follow the instructions from the election authorities.

Track Voter ID Application Status

How Long Does It Take to Get a Replacement Voter ID?

The processing time depends on verification and the applicable election office procedures. The ECI Manual on Electoral Rolls states that a replacement EPIC for a lost original should be made and delivered within 32–37 days of the application being made, under the described procedure.

This is an official manual guideline, not a guarantee that every application will be completed within the same period. Track your application online and contact the relevant election office if the status does not change or the card is not delivered.

Can You Download e-EPIC Instead of Getting a Physical Card?

If you need a digital copy of your Voter ID, check whether the e-EPIC download service is available for your voter record. e-EPIC is an electronic PDF version of your EPIC and can be downloaded through the official portal after the required verification.

Downloading e-EPIC is different from applying for delivery of a replacement physical card. If you need a new physical card because the original was lost, follow the Form 8 replacement process as instructed by the ECI.

Download e-EPIC from the official portal

Important Points to Remember

• Use Form 8 for replacement of an existing EPIC; Form 6 is for new voter registration.
• Provide accurate information and submit the supporting document required for a lost card.
• Save your application acknowledgement and track the status through the official portal.
• Never share your OTP or sensitive personal information with unauthorised people.
• Losing the physical card does not by itself mean that your name has been removed from the electoral roll. Verify your voter record through the official service if needed.
• For voting, your name must appear in the relevant electoral roll and you must follow the applicable polling-station identification instructions.

Official Links for Duplicate Voter ID

• ECI Voters’ Services Portal
• Official Forms Dashboard — Form 8
• Form 8 Guidelines (PDF)
• Track Application Status
• Search Your Name in the Electoral Roll
• ECI FAQ on Lost or Replacement EPIC

Frequently Asked Questions

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes. Forms, fees, supporting-document requirements and processing times may change. Always check the latest Election Commission of India instructions and follow the directions of the relevant Electoral Registration Officer.