What to Do Immediately After Losing Your Licence or ID

• Report suspicious activity: If you believe your ID or driver’s licence was stolen, report it to the police immediately. This helps protect you against identity theft.

• Protect your finances: Contact your bank or credit card companies and freeze accounts or cards as a precaution.

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How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Licence or ID Card

1. Visit an Alberta Registry Office (In Person)

• Bring acceptable ID documents: You’ll need to present one or more of the following:

  • Birth certificate, valid passport, Indigenous Status card, Permanent Resident or Citizenship card, National Defence ID, valid work/study/visitor permit, or other.

  • If you lack official photo ID, registry agents may accept supplementary proof like utility bills or pay stubs showing your name/address.

• Complete any required forms: You’ll typically fill out a statutory declaration confirming the loss, theft, or damage.

• Get a temporary licence: You’ll receive a paper temporary licence or ID on the spot. It may or may not include your photo:

  • Some agents issue a temporary with photo; others may not.

  • The temporary is valid while waiting for your permanent card—often about 10–21 business days.

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2. Remote Replacement Options (When You Can’t Visit in Person)

If you’re out of province, homebound due to medical reasons, or otherwise unable to visit a registry office:

• Use the Remote Driver Licence / ID Card Application:

  • Submit your completed application via email or have someone deliver it to a registry agent.

  • Include proof of your identity and Alberta residency.

  • Outstanding fines must be paid before issuance (not applicable to ID cards).

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Timeline Summary

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Important Notes & Edge Cases

• Expired Licence/ID: If your card has been expired for more than 6 months, replacement via the registry office may not be possible. You’ll need to contact a registry agent to discuss alternative solutions.

• Photo Requirements: A new photo may be required—especially if replacing in person. If the temporary card lacks a photo, carry another form of photo ID in the meantime (e.g., passport).

• Class 1–4 or Professional Licences: No different process generally, but expired or complex licence classes may require additional documentation or medical forms.

• Destroy Old Cards: Once you receive your new permanent licence or ID, securely destroy the temporary and any old card(s).

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Quick Checklist for Your Readers

If You’re Replacing In Person:

• Report theft (if applicable)

• Gather ID (e.g., birth certificate, passport)

• Visit nearest registry agency

• Pay replacement fee

• Receive temporary licence

• Wait 10–21 business days for the permanent card

If You’re Replacing Remotely:

• Complete and submit the Remote Application + ID/residency proof

• Pay fee when instructed

• Receive temporary licence via email (2–3 days)

• Permanent card arrives ~10 business days later

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Let me know if you’d like to add a downloadable checklist, infographic, or internal links to related posts (like registry offices in Lethbridge or business registration guides)—I’d be happy to help with that too!