What you need to do to get a duplicate license
A duplicate driver's license is a replacement for a license you already have — either because yours was lost, stolen, or damaged. You order it from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and in most states you can do this in person at a DMV office, by mail, or online. The process takes between one and three weeks depending on your state and the method you choose. You will need to bring or submit proof of identity and your Social Security number.
The cost varies by state but typically ranges from $10 to $30. Some states charge less if you order online or by mail than if you go in person. A few states offer rush processing for an additional fee if you need the license faster.
Key Takeaways
- You can order a duplicate license in person, by mail, or online depending on what your state DMV offers.
- You will need a valid form of ID and your Social Security number to prove your identity.
- Standard processing takes one to three weeks; some states offer rush options for a higher fee.
- The fee is usually $10 to $30 and may be lower if you order online or by mail instead of in person.
- If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to the police or your state's DMV fraud line first.
Ordering in person at a DMV office
Going to a DMV office is the fastest way to get a duplicate license if you need it the same day or within a few days. Bring your current license if you still have it, or bring another form of government-issued ID such as a passport, military ID, or state ID card. You will also need to provide your Social Security number — bring your Social Security card or a document that shows it, such as a tax return or W-2.
Walk in during office hours or make an appointment online through your state's DMV website. When you arrive, tell the staff member you need a duplicate license. They will take a new photo (unless your state allows you to keep your current photo), verify your information, collect the fee, and give you a receipt. Your new license will arrive by mail within one to two weeks in most states.
Some DMV offices are busier than others. Check your state's website to see which office near you has the shortest wait times, and consider going early in the morning or on a weekday rather than a weekend.
Ordering by mail
Mailing in your request is often cheaper than going in person and works well if you are not in a hurry. Visit your state's DMV website and read the duplicate license form — it is usually called a "Duplicate License process" or "License Replacement Form." Fill it out completely and include a copy of your ID and proof of your Social Security number.
Mail the form and documents to the address listed on your state's DMV website. Include a check or money order for the fee — do not send cash. Keep a copy of everything you send. Processing by mail usually takes two to three weeks, plus a few days for mail to travel each way, so plan for four to five weeks total.
Some states require you to have your signature notarized on the form before mailing it. Check your state's instructions before you send anything, because missing a notarization will delay your request.
Ordering online
Many states now let you order a duplicate license through their DMV website without leaving home. Go to your state's DMV website and look for "Duplicate License," "Replace License," or "Order a Replacement License." You will need to create an account or log in if you already have one.
Upload a photo of your ID and proof of your Social Security number. The website will ask you to verify your current address and confirm your license number. Pay the fee using a credit card or debit card. Some states charge less for online orders than for in-person or mail orders — check before you start.
After you submit, you will receive a confirmation number by email. Your new license will arrive by mail within one to three weeks. If your state does not offer online ordering yet, you can call the DMV to ask when it will be available, or use the mail or in-person methods instead.
What to do if your license was stolen
If your license was stolen rather than lost or damaged, consider reporting it to your local police department or your state's DMV fraud line before you order a duplicate. This creates a record in case someone tries to use your stolen license. Some states let you file a report online; others require you to call or visit in person.
When you order your duplicate, mention that the original was stolen. The DMV may flag your account or issue a new license number to prevent fraud. You do not need a police report to order a duplicate, but having one on file can help if someone later tries to use your stolen license.
What happens if you need your license before it arrives
If you need to drive before your duplicate arrives, ask the DMV for a temporary paper license or receipt showing that you have ordered a replacement. Some states issue these automatically when you order; others only give them if you ask. A temporary license is usually valid for 30 to 60 days and lets you drive legally while you wait for your permanent duplicate.
If you ordered online or by mail and did not receive a temporary document, call your state's DMV and ask whether one is available. If you ordered in person, ask the staff member before you leave the office whether they can print one for you.
Some states offer rush processing for an extra fee — usually $10 to $25 — that shortens the wait to three to five business days. Check your state's DMV website to see whether rush processing is available and how to request it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a duplicate license if my current license is suspended or revoked?
No. The DMV will not issue a duplicate if your license is under suspension or revocation. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation through the court or DMV, then order your duplicate. Contact your state's DMV to find out what you need to do to clear the suspension.
Do I need my original license to order a duplicate?
No, but it helps. If you still have your original license, bring it to the DMV or include a photo of it with your mail or online request. If you lost it, bring another government-issued ID instead, such as a passport or military ID.
Will my new license have a different number?
In most states, your duplicate license will have the same number as your original. A few states issue a new number if your license was stolen or if you request it for privacy reasons. Call your state's DMV to ask whether a new number is available.
What if I moved since my current license was issued?
Update your address before you order your duplicate. You can usually do this online, by mail, or in person at the DMV at the same time you order your duplicate. Bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease, if you are ordering in person.
How long is a duplicate license valid?
A duplicate license is valid for the same length of time as your original license. If your original license expires in three years, your duplicate will also expire in three years. You do not get extra time because you ordered a replacement.