How to Get a Replacement Texas Driver's License

Where to get a replacement license and what to bring

You get a replacement Texas driver's license from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), either in person at a driver's license office or by mail. The in-person route is faster — most offices issue your replacement the same day. The mail route takes two to three weeks but works if you cannot reach an office.

For either route, bring your current driver's license or state ID card if you have it. If you do not have it (because it was lost or stolen), bring a document that shows your name and date of birth, such as a passport, birth certificate, or Social Security card. You will also need proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works.

If your license was lost or stolen, you can report it to DPS at the same time you request the replacement. This prevents someone else from using your number for fraud.

Key Takeaways

Visit a DPS driver's license office in person to get your replacement the same day, or mail your documents to DPS if you cannot visit an office.
Bring your current license or ID card, or if you do not have it, bring a document showing your name and date of birth plus proof of your current address.
The replacement fee is $16 for a standard license and $32 for a Real ID, and you pay at the office or include a check or money order if you mail your request.
Find your nearest DPS office and check its hours on the Texas DPS website before you go, because wait times vary by location and time of day.

In-person replacement at a DPS driver's license office

Walk into any Texas DPS driver's license office with your documents and the replacement fee. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now use an online reservation system — check the Texas DPS website for your county to see if yours does. If it does, you can reserve a time slot to shorten your wait.

The office will take a new photo, verify your information, and print your replacement license on the spot. You leave with your new license the same day. Bring the fee in cash, debit card, or credit card — most offices accept all three, though a few smaller locations may take cash only.

Wait times depend on the office and the time of day. Offices in larger cities often have longer waits during lunch hours and late afternoon. If you go early in the morning or mid-week, you typically wait less than an hour.

Mailing your replacement request to DPS

If you cannot visit an office, you can mail your documents and fee to the DPS address listed on the Texas DPS website. Include your current license or ID card, or if you do not have it, include a certified copy of your birth certificate or passport plus proof of your current address. Include a check or money order for the replacement fee — do not send cash through the mail.

Write your phone number and email address on the outside of the envelope so DPS can contact you if they need more information. Mail your package to the address on the DPS website, and expect your replacement to arrive in two to three weeks.

If you are mailing because your license was lost or stolen, include a note explaining that so DPS can flag your old license number as inactive. This step is not required but adds a layer of protection against fraud.

What the replacement fee covers and how to pay

A standard replacement Texas driver's license costs $16. If you want a Real ID (which you will need to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building after May 2025), the replacement costs $32. Both prices are the same whether you replace it in person or by mail.

At an office, you can pay with cash, debit card, or credit card. If you mail your request, include a check or money order made out to the Texas Department of Public Safety. Some offices may accept other payment methods — call ahead if you want to confirm what your local office takes.

If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged

The replacement process is the same whether your license is lost, stolen, or damaged. Bring what you have — if your license is damaged but still readable, bring it. If it is lost or stolen, bring your backup ID instead.

When you arrive at the office or mail your documents, tell DPS that your license was lost, stolen, or damaged. The office staff will note this in your record and can deactivate your old license number to prevent misuse. If your license was stolen, you may also want to file a police report, though this is not required to get a replacement.

Real ID versus standard license replacement

A standard Texas driver's license works for driving and most everyday ID needs. A Real ID has a gold star in the top right corner and meets federal security standards. Starting in May 2025, you will need a Real ID to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building.

If you are replacing your license now and you fly or visit federal buildings, consider getting the Real ID version at the same time. The extra cost is $16 (so $32 total instead of $16), and you will not have to replace your license again in a few years just to get the Real ID. If you get a standard replacement now, you can upgrade to Real ID later without getting a full replacement.

Finding your nearest DPS office and checking wait times

The Texas DPS website has a tool to find driver's license offices by county and city. Enter your location, and the tool shows you the office address, phone number, and hours. Some offices are open Monday through Friday only; others have Saturday hours. A few large-city offices are open extended hours.

Call your local office before you go if you want to know the current wait time. Many offices post estimated wait times on their websites or answer the phone with that information. If your office uses online reservations, you can check availability and book a time slot through the DPS website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license if my current one is suspended or revoked?

No. You cannot get a replacement while your license is suspended or revoked. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation with DPS or the court that issued it. Once it is cleared, you can then request a replacement.

How long does a replacement license take if I mail it in?

Mailed replacements typically arrive in two to three weeks from the date DPS receives your package. Mail delivery itself takes a few days, so send your documents early if you have a important date. If you need your replacement faster, visit an office in person.

What if I moved and my address on my license is wrong?

You can update your address at the same time you get your replacement. Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days) along with your other documents. The office will update your address and issue your replacement with the new address on it.

Do I need an appointment to visit a DPS driver's license office?

Most offices do not require appointments, but some larger offices now use an online reservation system. Check the Texas DPS website for your specific office to see if it takes reservations. If it does, you can book a time slot to reduce your wait.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. You must pick up your replacement in person at the office where you applied, or have it mailed to your address. DPS does not release licenses to anyone other than the person named on the license.

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.