What you need to do to replace a Virginia driver's license

To replace a Virginia driver's license, you visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in person with proof of identity and residency, pay a replacement fee, and have a new photo taken. You cannot renew or replace a Virginia license by mail or online — the DMV requires you to appear at a location. The process takes about 30 minutes at the counter, and you receive a temporary paper license when ready while your plastic card is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

The reason for the in-person requirement is that Virginia law requires a new photograph for any license replacement, even if your old license photo is recent. This is different from a renewal, where you might be able to keep your existing photo depending on your age and when your license expires.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Virginia DMV location in person with a valid ID and proof of your current address to replace your license.
  • The replacement fee is $24 for a standard driver's license, and you pay this at the time of your visit.
  • You will receive a temporary paper license to use when ready and your plastic replacement card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted for proof of identity or residency.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

Bring one document that proves your identity and one that proves your current Virginia address. For identity, the DMV accepts a valid passport, a military ID, a birth certificate, or a Social Security card. If you bring a birth certificate or Social Security card, you also need a second form of ID — a school ID, employee ID, or credit card with your name on it.

For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and current Virginia address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you have moved recently and do not yet have a utility bill in your name, a lease signed by you and your landlord works. A piece of mail from a government agency, such as a tax notice or voter registration card, also counts.

Do not bring photocopies. The DMV requires original documents or certified copies. If your documents are in a language other than English, bring the original and an English translation certified by a translator.

When to replace your license instead of renewing it

You replace your license when it is lost, stolen, damaged, or when your name or address has changed. You also replace it if you want to change from a standard license to a REAL ID-compliant license (which allows you to use it for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight). A replacement is different from a renewal — renewal happens when your license is about to expire or has expired, and the process is different.

If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot replace it. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation with the DMV. If you are unsure whether your license is suspended, call the DMV customer service line at 804-367-0538 before you visit.

The step-by-step process at the DMV

First, find the DMV location nearest you on the Virginia DMV website and check whether it requires an appointment. Some locations operate by appointment only, while others accept walk-ins. If appointments are required, book one online or call 804-367-0538. Walk-in wait times vary widely depending on the location and time of day; visiting early in the morning on a weekday typically means a shorter wait.

When you arrive, take a number at the counter. Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they stay together. When called, hand your documents to the clerk and tell them you need a replacement license. The clerk will verify your identity and address, check your driving record, and ask you to confirm your address and any other information on file. You will then be directed to the photo station, where you sit for a new photograph. The photo must meet Virginia standards — you cannot wear a hat, sunglasses, or heavy makeup that obscures your face.

After the photo, return to the counter, review the information on your new license, and pay the $24 replacement fee. You will receive a temporary paper license printed on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 45 days and works for driving, voting, and other purposes while you wait for your plastic card. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Replacing a license that was lost or stolen

If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to the police, though this is not required by the DMV. A police report can help if someone uses your license number fraudulently. You do not need the police report to replace your license at the DMV — you straightforward tell the clerk that it was stolen, and they will note that in your file.

If your license was lost and you later find it, do not use it. Bring it to the DMV and ask them to destroy it, or destroy it yourself by cutting it in half. Using an old license after you have reported it lost can cause confusion with law enforcement or at checkpoints.

Replacing a damaged or unreadable license

If your license is damaged — bent, cracked, faded, or water-damaged — and the information is no longer readable, you can replace it. Bring the damaged license with you to the DMV. The clerk will take it and issue you a replacement. You do not need to explain how it was damaged; the DMV straightforward needs to see that it is no longer usable.

If your license is only slightly worn but still readable, the DMV may not replace it. In that case, you would wait until your renewal date. If you are unsure whether your license qualifies for replacement, call 804-367-0538 and describe the damage to a representative.

Replacing your license after a name change

If you changed your name through marriage, divorce, or court order, you need to replace your license to reflect your new name. Bring your original documents proving both your old name and your new name. For marriage, bring your marriage certificate. For divorce, bring your divorce decree. For a court-ordered name change, bring the court order. You also still need proof of identity and current address as described above.

The process at the DMV is the same — you will have a new photo taken and pay the $24 replacement fee. Your new license will show your new name and will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license online or by mail?

No. Virginia requires all license replacements to be done in person at a DMV location. You cannot replace a license online, by mail, or through any other method. You must visit a physical DMV office with your documents.

How much does a replacement license cost?

A replacement driver's license costs $24. This is the fee for a standard license. If you are upgrading to a REAL ID-compliant license at the same time, the fee is $34. You pay at the counter when you complete your replacement.

What if I do not have proof of my current address?

You must have a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and Virginia address. If you have just moved and do not yet have a utility bill, a signed lease or mortgage statement works. If you cannot obtain any of these, contact the DMV at 804-367-0538 to ask about alternative documents they may accept in your situation.

Can I use my temporary paper license to drive right away?

Yes. Your temporary paper license is valid when ready and works for driving, voting, and identification purposes. You can use it until your plastic card arrives by mail, which typically takes 7 to 10 business days.

What if my license was suspended or revoked?

You cannot replace a suspended or revoked license. You must first contact the DMV to resolve the suspension or revocation. Call 804-367-0538 to find out why your license is suspended and what steps you need to take to restore it.