How to Get a Replacement Driver License

What you need to do to get a replacement license

To get a replacement driver license, you visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency, bring proof of identity and residency, pay a replacement fee, and sit for a new photo. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes in person. If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you are replacing it with an identical license — same class, same restrictions, same expiration date as your original.

You do not need to retake the written or driving test unless your state requires it for a specific reason (like if your license was suspended). Most states let you order a replacement by mail or online if your license was straightforward lost or damaged and you have not had any violations since it was issued.

Key Takeaways

Visit your state DMV in person or check whether your state allows mail or online replacement for lost or damaged licenses.
Bring a government-issued photo ID (passport, military ID, or state ID), proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or tax ID.
Pay the replacement fee, which ranges from $10 to $50 depending on your state and whether you want a standard or expedited license.
A replacement license arrives by mail within 7 to 14 days for standard processing, or within 2 to 5 days if you pay for expedited service.
If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot get a replacement until you resolve the underlying issue with your state DMV.

Gather your documents before you go

Bring an original or certified copy of a government-issued photo ID. A U.S. passport, military ID, or state ID card all work. If you do not have one of these, some states accept a combination of documents — ask your DMV what they need.

You will also need proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and address on it works. The document must be dated within the last 60 days in most states. If you recently moved, bring both your old and new address documents.

Have your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) ready. You will need it to fill out the replacement form. Bring your current license if you still have it, even if it is damaged — it speeds up the process.

Choose in-person, mail, or online replacement

Most states offer at least two of these options. In-person replacement is fastest: you walk in, show your documents, pay the fee, sit for a photo, and leave. You get a temporary paper license on the spot and the plastic card arrives in 7 to 14 days. This route works for any reason — lost, stolen, or damaged.

Mail replacement is available in many states if your license was lost or damaged and you have no suspensions or violations. You fill out a form (usually available on your state DMV website), mail it with copies of your ID and proof of address, and include a check or money order for the fee. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks. You do not get a temporary license this way, so you cannot drive legally until the new one arrives.

Online replacement is the newest option and is available in about half of U.S. states. You log into your state DMV portal, verify your identity (usually by answering security questions or uploading a photo), upload copies of your documents, and pay by credit card. You then either pick up your license at a DMV office within a few days or have it mailed to you. Check your state DMV website to see which method is available where you live.

Pay the replacement fee and understand what it covers

Replacement fees vary by state and range from $10 to $50. Some states charge less for a standard replacement and more if you want expedited processing (2 to 5 days instead of 7 to 14). A few states charge extra if you need a temporary paper license to drive while you wait.

The fee covers a new plastic license card with your photo, signature, and the same license class and restrictions as your original. It does not cover any violations, suspensions, or revocations — if your license was suspended, you must resolve that issue first. The new license will have the same expiration date as your original license unless your state requires renewal at the time of replacement.

Most DMVs accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Some online and mail-in services accept only credit or debit card. Confirm payment methods on your state DMV website before you go.

What to do if your license was suspended or revoked

You cannot get a replacement license while your license is suspended or revoked. You must first resolve the issue that caused the suspension or revocation — usually unpaid traffic fines, unpaid child support, a DUI conviction, or accumulation of points from violations.

Contact your state DMV directly to find out what you owe or what you must do to lift the suspension. Some states have an online portal where you can check your license status and see what is required. Once you have paid fines, completed a required course, or met other conditions, you can then request a replacement. The DMV will tell you when you are may be able to access.

Understand what happens after you submit your request

If you applied in person, you leave with a temporary paper license valid for 30 to 45 days. You can drive legally on this temporary license while you wait for your plastic card. The DMV will mail your new license to the address you provided.

If you applied by mail or online, you do not receive a temporary license. You cannot drive legally until your new license arrives. Check your state DMV website for tracking information — some states let you check the status of your replacement online using your driver license number or Social Security number.

If your new license does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact your state DMV. Bring your temporary license (if you have one) or your old license if it is still readable. The DMV can reissue or expedite your replacement at no extra charge if there was a delay on their end.

Handle special situations

If your license was stolen, some states ask you to file a police report first. Check your state DMV website or call to confirm whether this is required. If it is, bring a copy of the report number or the report itself when you explore for replacement.

If your name has changed since your original license was issued (through marriage, divorce, or legal name change), you will need to provide documentation of the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Some states issue a new license with the updated name at no extra charge; others charge a small fee. Bring the name-change document with your other proof of identity.

If you are replacing a license that was damaged by water, fire, or wear, bring the damaged license with you. The DMV will take it and destroy it. If you cannot find your damaged license, just bring your other documents — the DMV can look up your record.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement license?

In-person replacement gives you a temporary paper license on the spot, valid for 30 to 45 days. Your plastic card arrives by mail in 7 to 14 days for standard processing. Expedited mail service takes 2 to 5 days and costs extra. Online and mail-in requests without in-person pickup take 2 to 3 weeks.

Can I drive with a temporary paper license?

Yes, a temporary paper license issued at the DMV is valid for driving. It is usually good for 30 to 45 days. If you applied by mail or online without visiting an office, you do not receive a temporary license and cannot drive legally until your plastic card arrives.

What if I moved and my address changed since I got my original license?

Bring proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days) along with your other documents. The DMV will issue a replacement license with your updated address at no extra charge. Some states let you update your address online before you explore for replacement.

Do I have to retake the written or driving test to get a replacement?

No. A replacement license is a duplicate of your original — you do not retake any tests. The only exception is if your license was suspended or revoked for a reason that requires you to pass a test before reinstatement (like a DUI). In that case, you must complete the required steps before the DMV will issue any license.

What if I lost my license and do not have a temporary one — can I still drive?

No. Once your original license is lost, you cannot drive legally until you have a replacement in hand or a temporary paper license from the DMV. If you applied by mail or online, you must wait for the plastic card to arrive. If you need to drive before then, visit a DMV office in person to get a temporary 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.