I see the licencing authority as the department that needs to take responsibility here.

Veronica, you've tried to do things the right way. And your efforts are on record. If you are not getting joy that way, maybe it's time to roll with the punches and lean into the system. And this is where things get interesting.

If those licences were issued in 2003, they should be coming up for renewal this year. I suggest your husband sets about renewing them and getting a temporary licence in the meantime because his licence is misplaced.

Now consider the department's options. They either:
  • Have to acknowledge that the existing licences issued against your husband's ID are fraudulently issued - and take steps to address that or face a lawsuit from you for losses incurred by their negligence, or
  • Issue the licence renewals and temporary licence.

The only tip I've got is don't go stamping feet and banging tables - smile and be nice and don't take "I can't help you" for an answer. If the person in front of you can't help you, ask them to pass you onto their boss or supervisor. Don't let them shift you "across department" without a phonecall from them first to the person they are sending you to. Get them to shift you up the chain of command. Once you've got to the boss of the boss of the boss you stand a better chance of getting somewhere.

And collect the names and contact details of who you are speaking to every step of the way.