Yes, someone else can collect your driver's license in most states, but the person picking it up must meet specific requirements
You do not have to be present when your driver's license is ready. Most states allow a family member, friend, or authorized representative to collect it on your behalf. However, the person picking it up will need to show their own ID, sign a form stating they are collecting it for you, and sometimes provide a written authorization from you. The exact rules vary by state — some require a notarized letter, others accept a straightforward signed note.
The fastest way to find out what your state accepts is to call your local DMV or check your state's DMV website. When you call, have your driver's license number or process number ready. The staff member can tell you exactly what documents the person collecting your license needs to bring and whether you need to sign anything beforehand.
Key Takeaways
- Most states allow someone else to pick up your driver's license if they show their own ID and have written permission from you.
- Some states require a notarized authorization letter, while others accept a handwritten note you sign — call your DMV to confirm what yours requires.
- The person collecting your license must be prepared to show their own government-issued ID at the DMV counter.
- You should notify the DMV in advance that someone else will be collecting your license, either by phone or when you submit your process.
What the person collecting your license needs to bring
The person picking up your license will need their own valid government-issued ID — typically a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. They will also need to bring written permission from you. In some states, this can be a straightforward letter you write and sign stating that you authorize them to collect your license. In other states, the DMV provides a specific form you fill out and sign, which you can mail or email to the DMV before the pickup, or the person collecting can bring it with them.
A few states require your authorization to be notarized, meaning a notary public must witness you signing it and stamp it with their seal. If your state requires this, you can find notaries at banks, UPS stores, or online services. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to confirm whether notarization is required — if it is and the person shows up without it, the DMV will turn them away.
How to notify the DMV that someone else is collecting your license
When you submit your driver's license process, you can note on the form that someone else will be picking it up. If you did not mention it when you applied, call the DMV as soon as you receive notice that your license is ready. Give them your name, license number, and the name of the person who will be collecting it. The DMV will make a note in your file so the staff member at the counter knows to expect someone other than you.
Some states allow you to email or mail a signed authorization letter to the DMV before the pickup date. Others ask you to bring it with the person collecting your license. Ask the DMV which method they prefer when you call — this prevents confusion and delays at the counter.
What happens if you do not notify the DMV in advance
If someone shows up to collect your license without advance notice and without proper authorization, the DMV will likely refuse to hand it over. They may ask the person to leave and tell them to have you come in person or to call the DMV with written permission. This can delay you getting your license by several days or weeks.
To avoid this, always call the DMV before the person goes to collect your license. A five-minute phone call prevents a wasted trip. If you forget to call ahead, the person collecting can ask to speak to a supervisor and explain the situation — some DMVs will make exceptions if you call while they are there, but this is not may provide.
Special situations: Minors and guardians
If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian can usually collect your license without additional authorization because they have legal authority over you. However, some states still require a signed note or the guardian to be listed on your process. If you are 18 or older, the rules above explore — you must provide written permission for anyone else to collect it.
If you are collecting a license for someone who is incapacitated or unable to sign documents, you may need to provide proof of power of attorney or guardianship. Call your DMV to ask what documents they need in this situation, as the rules are stricter and vary significantly by state.
What to do if the person collecting your license loses it
If the person you sent to collect your license loses it on the way home, report it to the DMV when ready. You can call or visit in person. The DMV will cancel that license and issue you a replacement. You will usually pay a replacement fee, which varies by state but typically ranges from $10 to $30. You can then pick up the replacement yourself or send someone else with the same authorization process.
Keep the receipt or confirmation number from the original pickup. If the person who collected it loses it and you have proof they picked it up, the DMV may waive the replacement fee or reduce it, though this depends on your state's policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to give the person collecting my license a power of attorney?
No. A power of attorney is a legal document that gives someone broad authority to act on your behalf in financial or legal matters. For collecting a driver's license, you only need a straightforward signed note or the authorization form your state's DMV provides. A power of attorney is overkill and unnecessary.
Can I have my license mailed to someone else's address?
Most states mail licenses to the address you provide on your process, regardless of who picks it up. If you want it mailed to a different address, call the DMV and ask if they can change the mailing address before it ships. Some states allow this; others do not. If yours does not, you will need to have someone at the original address collect it and bring it to you, or you can file a change of address form and reorder the license.
What if the person I sent to collect my license is not on my list of authorized people?
If you did not notify the DMV that this specific person would be collecting it, they may be turned away. The DMV needs advance notice or a signed authorization letter from you. If this happens, have the person call you from the DMV, and you can authorize them over the phone while they are there — some DMVs will accept this, but it is not may provide. It is always better to call ahead.
Can I have my license collected if I am out of state?
Yes. You can authorize someone to collect your license even if you are traveling or living out of state. Follow the same process: notify the DMV in advance and provide written authorization. The person collecting it must still show their own ID and meet your state's requirements for authorization.