Report the theft to your state's DMV when ready

The first step is to contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency — the name varies by state, but it handles driver's licenses. You can usually report a stolen license by phone, online, or in person. When you call or visit, have your license number ready if you know it, along with your full name and date of birth. The DMV will flag your license as stolen in their system, which prevents someone else from using it to get a replacement or to pose as you.

Reporting to the DMV is different from reporting to police. The DMV stops the license from being used; police create a record of the theft itself. You need both. Many states let you report to the DMV online through their website, which is often faster than calling or visiting in person. Check your state's DMV website for the exact process — some states have a dedicated stolen license form, while others handle it through a general theft report.

File a police report for the theft

Contact your local police department (non-emergency line, unless the theft happened during a crime) and file a report. Give them the date and location where you last had the license, and when you discovered it was missing. The police report creates an official record that you can reference if someone tries to use your stolen license to commit fraud or if you're questioned about activity tied to it later.

You do not need to visit the police station in person for most stolen license reports — many departments accept reports by phone or online. Ask the police department for a report number when you file; keep this number for your records. If your license was stolen as part of a larger theft (like a stolen wallet or purse), include that information in the report.

Key Takeaways

  • Contact your state's DMV to report the license stolen so it cannot be used for fraud or to obtain a replacement.
  • File a police report with your local department to create an official record of the theft.
  • Order a replacement license from your DMV, which usually costs between $15 and $50 depending on your state.
  • Monitor your credit reports and consider a fraud alert if you are concerned about identity theft beyond the stolen license.
  • If your license was in a stolen wallet or purse, also contact your bank and credit card companies to report those items missing.

Get a replacement license from the DMV

After reporting the theft, you will need to obtain a replacement license. Visit your state's DMV website or call to find out what documents you need to bring. Most states require proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), proof of residency (a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number. Some states waive the usual fees for stolen licenses, while others charge a replacement fee that typically ranges from $15 to $50.

You can often order a replacement online or by mail without visiting in person, though some states require an in-person visit for a new photo. Check your state's DMV website for the fastest option available to you. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, ask the DMV whether they issue a temporary license or permit that you can use in the meantime.

Monitor your credit and consider a fraud alert

A stolen driver's license can be used to open accounts or explore for credit in your name. Check your credit reports from all three bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — through AnnualCreditReport.com, which is the official free source. Look for accounts or inquiries you do not recognize. You can order one free report from each bureau every 12 months.

If you see signs of fraud on your credit report, or if you are concerned that your license could be used for identity theft, you can place a fraud alert with the credit bureaus. A fraud alert tells lenders to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. You can place a fraud alert by contacting one of the three bureaus; they are required to notify the others. A fraud alert lasts one year and is free to place.

Alert your bank and credit card companies

If your license was stolen as part of a wallet or purse theft, contact your bank and credit card companies right away. Tell them your license was stolen and ask them to watch for suspicious activity on your accounts. Some banks and card issuers will cancel your current cards and issue new ones as a precaution, or they may straightforward flag your account for monitoring.

If you notice any unauthorized charges or accounts opened in your name, report them to the company when ready and follow their fraud procedures. Keep records of all calls and correspondence. If the fraud is extensive, you may also want to file an identity theft report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov, which creates an official record you can use with creditors and law enforcement.

What to do if someone uses your stolen license

If you discover that someone has used your stolen license — for example, if you are contacted about a traffic ticket you did not receive, or if you see activity on your credit report tied to your license number — gather all documentation of the fraudulent use. This includes the police report number from your original theft report, any notices or tickets sent to you, and credit reports showing the fraudulent accounts.

Contact the organization or agency involved (the court that issued the ticket, the creditor that opened the account, etc.) and provide them with proof that the license was stolen. Include your police report number and the date you reported the theft to the DMV. Ask them to correct their records and remove the fraudulent activity from your name. This process can take time, so follow up in writing and keep copies of all correspondence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive while waiting for my replacement license?

This depends on your state. Some states issue a temporary license or permit that you can use when ready, either in person or by mail. Others require you to wait for the physical replacement to arrive. Check your state's DMV website or call to ask whether a temporary license is available and how to obtain it.

Do I have to file a police report if I just report to the DMV?

Reporting to the DMV stops your license from being misused, but a police report creates an official record that protects you if someone does use it fraudulently. If the theft was part of a larger crime (stolen wallet, car break-in), you should file a police report anyway. For a license stolen alone, a police report is not required but is recommended.

How long does it take to get a replacement license?

Processing time varies by state, but replacement licenses typically arrive within two to four weeks if you order by mail, or the same day if you visit in person. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee. Check your state's DMV website for the specific timeline.

What if I find my stolen license after I report it?

Contact the DMV and let them know the license has been found. They can remove the stolen flag from their system. You can still use the replacement license you ordered, or you can ask the DMV whether you need to do anything else. Do not attempt to use the original license after it has been reported stolen.

Should I freeze my credit after my license is stolen?

A credit freeze prevents new accounts from being opened in your name, but it also prevents you from opening accounts yourself until you lift the freeze. A fraud alert is less restrictive and is a good first step. Consider a freeze if you see actual fraudulent accounts on your credit report or if you are very concerned about identity theft. Both are free to place and remove.