How to Order a New California Driver's License

Where to order your new California driver's license

You can order a replacement California driver's license through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. The fastest route is usually the DMV website at dmv.ca.gov, where you can request a replacement license without an appointment if you're renewing or replacing an existing license. If you prefer not to use the website, you can mail a completed form to your local DMV office or visit in person.

The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the license and whether you want to avoid a trip to the DMV office. Online ordering typically takes one to two weeks for delivery. In-person visits let you walk out with a temporary license the same day, though you'll wait for the permanent card by mail. Mail-in requests take longer but require no visit at all.

Key Takeaways

Order online at dmv.ca.gov if you have a current California ID or driver's license and want the fastest delivery without visiting an office.
You'll need to provide your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to order online.
A replacement license costs $32 and is mailed to the address on file with the DMV, arriving in one to two weeks.
If you visit a DMV office in person, you receive a temporary paper license when ready and the permanent card arrives by mail within two weeks.
Mail-in requests require Form DL 44 or Form DL 43 depending on whether you're replacing a lost license or renewing an expired one.

Ordering online through the DMV website

Go to dmv.ca.gov and select "Order a Replacement Driver License or ID Card" from the homepage. You'll be asked to enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The DMV uses this information to verify your identity and pull up your current record.

After you verify your information, you'll choose whether you want a standard replacement or an enhanced driver's license (which allows entry into federal facilities without a passport). Then you'll pay the $32 replacement fee using a credit or debit card. The DMV will mail your new license to the address currently on file. If your address has changed, update it before ordering, or your license will arrive at the old location.

Once your order is submitted, you'll receive a confirmation number. Keep this for your records. Delivery typically takes one to two weeks, though it can occasionally take longer during high-volume periods.

Visiting a DMV office in person

If you want a temporary license when ready, visit your local DMV office with your current driver's license or ID card. Bring proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days) if your address on file is outdated. You do not need an appointment for a replacement license, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

At the office, tell the staff member you need a replacement license. They'll verify your information, take a new photo if required, and process your request. You'll pay $32 and receive a temporary paper license valid for 60 days. Your permanent license will be mailed to your address on file within two weeks.

Ordering by mail

Complete Form DL 43 (process for Replacement Driver License) if your license is lost, stolen, or damaged. If your license has expired and you're renewing it at the same time, use Form DL 44 instead. Both forms are available on dmv.ca.gov or at any DMV office.

Mail the completed form along with a check or money order for $32 to your local DMV office. Include a copy of your current driver's license if you have one. Mail processing takes longer than online or in-person requests — typically three to four weeks from the time the DMV receives your form. Include a return address so the DMV can send your new license back to you.

What information you'll need to provide

Whether you order online, by mail, or in person, you'll need to provide your current driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. If you're ordering in person, bring your current license or ID card itself. If you're ordering by mail, include a photocopy.

If your address has changed since your license was issued, have your new address ready. You may be asked to provide proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease agreement, or recent bank statement typically works. If you've changed your name since your license was issued, you'll need to bring documentation of the name change (a marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree).

When you might need to visit in person instead

You can order online or by mail only if you already have a valid California driver's license or ID card. If your license has been suspended, revoked, or expired for more than five years, you cannot order a replacement online — you must visit a DMV office in person or contact them by phone at 1-800-777-0133.

If you need to change your name, address, or other information beyond a straightforward replacement, you may also need to visit in person. The DMV staff can tell you whether your situation requires an office visit when you call or check the website.

Cost and delivery timeline

A replacement California driver's license costs $32, regardless of how you order it. This fee covers the cost of producing and mailing the new card. You pay at the time of order — online with a credit or debit card, by check or money order if mailing, or in cash or card at a DMV office.

Delivery times vary by method. Online orders typically arrive in one to two weeks. In-person visits give you a temporary paper license the same day, with the permanent card arriving in one to two weeks. Mail-in requests take three to four weeks from the time the DMV receives your form. During busy periods (often around holidays or tax season), all timelines may extend by a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order a replacement license if mine is suspended or revoked?

No. You cannot order a replacement online or by mail if your license is suspended or revoked. You must visit a DMV office in person or call 1-800-777-0133 to discuss your situation. The DMV staff can explain what steps you need to take to restore your driving privileges.

What if my address on file is wrong?

Update your address before ordering online — the DMV will mail your new license to whatever address is currently in the system. If you're visiting in person, bring proof of your new address and ask the staff to update it before processing your replacement. If you're mailing a form, include a note with your new address and bring proof when you mail the form.

How long is a temporary paper license valid?

A temporary paper license issued at a DMV office is valid for 60 days. This gives you time to receive your permanent license by mail. If your permanent license doesn't arrive within 60 days, return to the DMV office and they can issue you another temporary license.

Do I need to take a new photo for a replacement license?

If you order online or by mail, the DMV uses your existing photo from your current license. If you visit in person, the DMV may take a new photo depending on how old your current photo is and DMV policy at that time. Ask the staff when you arrive if you want to know before they process your request.

What if I never received my replacement license in the mail?

Contact the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 with your confirmation number (if you ordered online) or your driver's license number. They can check whether the license was mailed and provide tracking information if available. If it was lost in the mail, the DMV can issue a replacement or you can visit an office for a temporary license while a new one is mailed.

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.