You can order a replacement Texas driver's license through the Department of Public Safety website without visiting an office
Texas lets you order a replacement driver's license online through the DPS (Department of Public Safety) website if your license is lost, stolen, or damaged. The process takes about 10 minutes, costs $11, and your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You cannot renew an expired license online — that requires an office visit — but you can replace a valid license that is physically damaged or missing.
The online order works only if you have a valid Texas driver's license number, a Social Security number, and a debit or credit card. If your license expired more than two years ago, or if you need to change your address, name, or other information, you will need to visit a DPS office instead.
Key Takeaways
- Go to the DPS website (dps.texas.gov), find the Driver License section, and select "Order a Replacement License" to start the process online.
- You will need your current Texas driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid debit or credit card to complete the order.
- The replacement license costs $11 and arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you place the order.
- If your license expired more than two years ago or you need to change your address or name, you must visit a DPS office in person instead.
Step-by-step: ordering your replacement license online
Start by going to dps.texas.gov and navigating to the Driver License section. Look for the link labeled "Order a Replacement License" — this is separate from renewal or other services. Click that link to begin.
You will be asked to enter your Texas driver's license number and your Social Security number. The system uses these to pull up your record and confirm your identity. Have both numbers ready before you start, as the form will not save your progress if you step away.
Next, select the reason for your replacement: lost, stolen, or damaged. The system does not charge different amounts for each reason, but it needs to know which one applies. If you are replacing a damaged license, you may be asked to describe the damage briefly.
Confirm your mailing address. The system will show the address on file with your current license. If you have moved since your license was issued, you must update this address before placing the order. If your address is wrong and you do not correct it now, your new license will arrive at the old address.
Enter your payment information. Texas accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. The $11 charge appears on your statement as a DPS transaction. You will receive a confirmation number at the end — write this down or take a screenshot, as you may need it to track your order.
What happens after you place your order
Your order is submitted when ready, and you should receive a confirmation email within a few hours. This email contains your confirmation number and the mailing address where your license will be sent. Check this email to make sure the address is correct — if it is wrong, contact DPS right away at 1-888-589-6789 to correct it before your license ships.
Your new license is printed and mailed within 7 to 10 business days. Standard mail delivery typically takes another 3 to 5 business days after that, so plan for up to two weeks total. If you do not receive your license within three weeks, call DPS to check the status using your confirmation number.
While you wait, your old license remains valid if it is not expired. You can continue to use it for identification and driving. Once your new license arrives, destroy the old one or return it to a DPS office if you prefer.
When you cannot order online and must visit an office
If your Texas driver's license expired more than two years ago, the online replacement system will reject your order. You will need to visit a DPS office to renew it instead. The same applies if your license was suspended or revoked — online replacement is not available for those situations.
You also cannot change your address, name, or other personal information through the online replacement process. If you need to update any of these details, you must go to a DPS office in person. Bring your current license, proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease works), and any documents needed for a name change (marriage certificate, court order, etc.).
If you have never had a Texas driver's license and are ordering your first one, you cannot do this online. First-time applicants must visit an office with proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number.
Finding your nearest DPS office if you need one
If you cannot order online, use the DPS office locator on dps.texas.gov to find the nearest location. Enter your city or zip code, and the system shows all nearby offices with their hours and phone numbers. Many offices operate Monday through Friday only, and some have limited hours, so check before you go.
Call ahead if possible. Many DPS offices now use appointment systems or issue numbered tickets when you arrive, and wait times vary widely by location and time of day. Some offices are consistently busy in the morning and afternoon but quieter mid-day or late in the day.
What to bring if you visit an office
Bring your current Texas driver's license if you still have it. If your license was lost or stolen, bring a photo ID instead — a passport, military ID, or state ID card works. You will also need to pay the replacement fee, which is $11 for a standard license. DPS offices accept cash, check, and card payments.
If you are replacing a damaged license, bring the damaged license with you if you can. The office staff may want to see it to confirm the damage. If your license was stolen, you do not need to bring anything beyond your ID and payment method.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the online replacement if my license is suspended or revoked?
No. The online system only works for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses that are otherwise valid and current. If your license is suspended or revoked, you must visit a DPS office and resolve the suspension or revocation before you can get a replacement.
What if I enter the wrong mailing address and do not realize it until after I place the order?
Call DPS when ready at 1-888-589-6789 with your confirmation number. If your order has not yet shipped, they can update the address. Once your license ships, it is difficult to redirect, so calling right away is important.
Do I need to bring my old license to the mailbox when my new one arrives?
No. Your new license arrives as a standalone document. You do not need to return or surrender your old license through the mail. You can destroy it, keep it as a backup, or take it to a DPS office if you prefer.
How do I track my replacement license after I order it?
Use your confirmation number to check the status on dps.texas.gov, or call 1-888-589-6789. The system shows whether your license has been printed and mailed. Standard mail delivery times explore after that, so tracking stops once it leaves the DPS facility.
Can I order a replacement license if I am out of state?
Yes. The online replacement process works from anywhere as long as you have your Texas driver's license number and Social Security number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file with your current license, so make sure that address is correct or update it before you order.