How to Replace a Lost or Damaged Driver's License

Where to go and what you'll need

You replace a driver's license at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), or whatever your state calls it—some states use the Secretary of State's office or a Transportation Department. You cannot do this online in most states, though a few allow you to order a replacement card by mail if your license is only slightly damaged or expired by a short time. The fastest route is usually to visit a DMV office in person with your ID documents and payment.

What you bring depends on whether your license was lost, stolen, or damaged. For a lost or stolen license, bring a government-issued ID (passport, birth certificate, or state ID card), proof of your current address (a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or card. If your license is damaged but you still have it, bring the damaged card itself along with your proof of address. Some states also ask for a completed process form, which you can read from the DMV website or fill out on arrival.

The fee for a replacement license varies by state—it typically ranges from $15 to $50, though some states charge less for a temporary paper license and more for a permanent card. A few states waive the fee if your license was stolen and you bring a police report. Check your state's DMV website before you go to confirm the exact fee and whether you need an appointment.

Key Takeaways

Visit your state's DMV office in person with a government-issued ID, proof of address, and payment to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license.
Some states allow mail-in replacement for expired or slightly damaged licenses, but most require an in-person visit.
Replacement fees range from $15 to $50 depending on your state, and some states waive the fee if you bring a police report for a stolen license.
A temporary paper license is usually issued on the spot, while your permanent replacement card arrives by mail within one to three weeks.
If your license was stolen, file a police report first—some states require it to waive the fee, and it protects you from identity theft.

Getting a temporary license while you wait

Most DMV offices issue a temporary paper license on the day you visit, valid for 30 to 60 days depending on your state. This temporary license has the same legal weight as a permanent card—you can drive, use it as ID, and present it to police. The permanent replacement card is mailed to your address and typically arrives within one to three weeks, though some states take longer during busy periods.

If you need to drive before your appointment, check whether your state offers an expedited replacement service. Some DMV offices will print a permanent card on site for an extra fee (usually $10 to $25), though this is not available everywhere. Call your local DMV office to ask whether they offer same-day printing before you visit.

What to do if your license was stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost, file a police report before or when ready after visiting the DMV. Some states require the report number to waive the replacement fee; others use it to flag your old license number in their system so it cannot be misused. You do not need to wait for the full police report—most DMV offices accept the report number from the initial filing.

A stolen license puts you at risk for identity theft, so consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). This is free and takes about 15 minutes. A fraud alert tells lenders to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name, which adds a layer of protection while you wait for your replacement card.

Replacing a license in a different state than where you live

If you live in one state but your license is from another, you must replace it through the state that issued it. You cannot walk into a DMV in your current state and replace a license from your home state. Most states allow you to request a replacement by mail if you are out of state—visit the DMV website for the state that issued your license and look for "replacement by mail" or "out-of-state replacement."

The mail-in process usually takes four to six weeks and requires you to send in your process, proof of identity, and payment by check or money order. Some states now accept online payment for mail-in replacements. If you need to drive before the replacement arrives, you may be able to get a temporary license from your current state while keeping your original state's license active—rules vary, so call your current state's DMV to ask.

Replacing a license that is expired or about to expire

If your license is expired or expiring soon, you may be able to renew it instead of replacing it, which is usually faster and cheaper. Renewal means extending the same license number for another four to eight years (depending on your state), while replacement means getting a new card with a new number. Check your state's DMV website to see whether you can renew by mail or online—many states allow this for licenses that are only slightly expired.

If your expired license was lost or damaged, you will need to replace it rather than renew it, and the process is the same as replacing a current license. Bring your proof of identity and address, and the DMV will issue you a new card with a new number. The fee is usually the same as a standard replacement.

Replacing a license with a different name or address

If your name has changed since your license was issued (through marriage, divorce, or legal name change), you will need to bring documentation of the change along with your replacement request. For a name change through marriage, bring your marriage certificate. For divorce, bring the divorce decree. For a legal name change, bring the court order. Some states allow you to update your name and address at the same time you replace your license; others require a separate name-change transaction.

If you only need to update your address without replacing the card itself, most states allow you to do this online or by mail for free or a small fee. Check your state's DMV website to see whether you can update your address without getting a new card. If your address has changed and your license was lost or damaged, the replacement card will be mailed to your new address automatically.

What happens if you cannot visit the DMV in person

If you are homebound, out of state, or unable to visit a DMV office, some states offer mail-in replacement or mobile DMV services. Mail-in replacement is available in most states for licenses that are only slightly damaged or expired, but not for lost or stolen licenses. Mobile DMV services visit certain locations (libraries, community centers, senior centers) on set schedules—check your state's DMV website for dates and locations near you.

If neither option is available in your state, you may be able to have someone else pick up your replacement card on your behalf if you provide them with a signed authorization letter. Call your local DMV office to ask whether they accept this and what form the letter should take. Some states require the person to show ID and your ID as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with a temporary paper license?

Yes. A temporary paper license issued by the DMV is legally valid for driving and for identification. You can use it anywhere a permanent license is accepted until your replacement card arrives by mail.

How long does it take to get a replacement license in the mail?

Most states mail replacement licenses within one to three weeks of your visit. Some states take longer during peak periods. Call your local DMV or check the website to ask about current wait times in your area.

Do I have to pay the replacement fee if my license was stolen?

Many states waive the fee if you bring a police report showing your license was stolen. Some states require the report number; others accept a copy of the report itself. Call your DMV before you visit to confirm what your state requires.

What if I lost my license and do not have a passport or birth certificate?

You can use other government-issued ID, such as a state ID card, military ID, or tribal ID. If you have none of these, ask your DMV what other documents they accept—options vary by state but may include school records, medical records, or a combination of documents like a Social Security card and utility bill.

Can I replace my license online?

A few states allow online replacement for licenses that are only slightly damaged or expired by a short time, but most require an in-person visit. Check your state's DMV website to see whether online replacement is available for your situation.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.