The MIT-UCO acronym on the driving licence: What it means and why it is important

If you have noticed the acronym MIT-UCO on your driving license and are wondering what it means, you are in the right place. In this article we will clearly explain its meaning and the context in which it is used. We will discover together why it is present only on some licenses and what it means for the holder.

What does the acronym MIT-UCO mean?

The abbreviation MIT-UCO on your driving licence indicates that the document was issued by the Central Operations Office of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MIT). This wording is found under item 4c of your driving licence and refers specifically to duplicate driving licences. This means that if your driving licence bears this abbreviation, it was issued to replace an original document that was lost, stolen or damaged.

When is a duplicate issued?

A duplicate driving license is issued under specific circumstances, such as:

• Loss or theft of driving licence.
• Deterioration of the original document.

Once you have filed a report with the police, the Central Operations Office will issue the new license. During the wait, which can last up to 45 days, you will receive a temporary driving permit , valid until the duplicate arrives.

The value of the duplicate

The duplicate license issued by MIT-UCO has the same legal validity as the original license. By maintaining the same expiry date and all the rights of the replaced document, you can continue to drive regularly. It is important to note that if the original license is found after the duplicate has been issued, the latter must be destroyed.

Where is MIT-UCO located?

The MIT Central Operations Office is located in Rome and is the central body responsible for managing and issuing duplicate driving licences in Italy. This centralisation allows for more efficient management of duplicate practices, ensuring uniformity at a national level.

How to contact MIT-UCO?

If you encounter problems in receiving the duplicate of your driving licence or if you have other needs, you can contact the Central Operations Office directly through the following channels:

• Toll-free number : 800 232323 (active from Monday to Friday).
• Email : uco.motorizzazione@mit.gov.it​​​

What to do if you don't receive the duplicate on time?

In rare cases, there may be delays in issuing the duplicate license. If you do not receive the new document within the established time frame (usually 90 days), you can continue to drive with the provisional permit. However, it is always a good idea to contact the MIT-UCO for clarifications and updates on the status of your application.

The presence of the MIT-UCO acronym on your driving licence is a clear sign that the document is a duplicate, issued to replace the original due to loss, theft or deterioration. This document has the same validity as the original driving licence, and the process for obtaining it is managed by the MIT Central Operations Office, thus ensuring a centralised and secure procedure for all Italian motorists.

If you need further information or support regarding your driving licence, you can always refer to the toll-free number or email address of MIT-UCO.