Where to go and what to bring

In Texas, you replace a lost or damaged driver's license at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, not at a separate DMV. Texas does not have a separate DMV — the DPS handles all driver's licenses and vehicle registration.

You can find your nearest DPS office by visiting the Texas DPS website and using their office locator tool. Most cities have at least one office; larger cities have several. You do not need an appointment at most locations, but some offices now offer online scheduling, which can reduce your wait time.

Bring your Social Security number, proof of Texas residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days), and proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or military ID). If your license was damaged rather than lost, bring the damaged card itself. Bring your current address — if you have moved since your last license was issued, you will need to show proof of your new address.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas driver's licenses are issued by the Department of Public Safety (DPS), and you replace them at a DPS office, not a separate DMV.
  • You need proof of identity, proof of Texas residency dated within 90 days, and your Social Security number to replace a lost or damaged license.
  • Most DPS offices do not require appointments, but some now offer online scheduling to reduce wait times.
  • A replacement license costs a fee that varies depending on how long your new license will be valid, and you can usually pick it up in person the same day or within a few days.
  • If you have moved, changed your name, or have an outstanding traffic ticket, tell the DPS staff before you complete your process.

The cost and how long it takes

The fee for a replacement Texas driver's license depends on how long you want the new license to be valid. A license valid for five years costs less than one valid for eight years. As of 2024, fees range from around $16 to $32, but you should confirm the current fee with your local DPS office or their website, as fees can change.

You can usually pick up your replacement license the same day you explore, though some offices may take a few business days. Ask the staff member when your license will be ready before you leave. If you need the license urgently for travel or work, mention this when you arrive — staff can sometimes prioritize your process.

What happens if your address has changed

If you have moved since your last license was issued, you must update your address when you replace your license. Bring proof of your new Texas address — a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 90 days all work. A cell phone bill typically does not count as proof of residency in Texas.

The DPS will issue a new license with your updated address. This is a good time to correct any other information on your license, such as your name (if you have married, divorced, or changed your name legally) or your height or eye color if those details are now wrong.

Replacing a license if you have an outstanding ticket or hold

If you have an unpaid traffic ticket or a hold on your driving record, the DPS may not issue you a replacement license until the ticket is paid or the hold is cleared. Before you go to the DPS office, check your driving record online through the Texas DPS website or call ahead to ask whether any holds exist.

If there is a hold, you will need to resolve it first — usually by paying the ticket or contacting the court or agency that placed the hold. Once the hold is cleared, you can return to the DPS office to complete your replacement. This step can add days or weeks to the process, so check early.

Replacing a license if you have changed your name

If you have legally changed your name since your last license was issued, bring proof of the name change along with your other documents. Acceptable proof includes a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. The DPS will issue a new license with your current legal name.

You do not need a separate name-change document — the marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order itself serves as proof. Make sure the document is an official copy, not a photocopy you made yourself.

What to do if you cannot go to a DPS office in person

Texas does not allow you to replace a lost or damaged driver's license by mail or online. You must appear in person at a DPS office. However, if you are unable to visit an office due to a disability or medical condition, you can contact your local DPS office to ask about accommodations or alternative arrangements.

Some DPS offices have staff who can help you complete the process if you have mobility or vision challenges. Call ahead to let them know what you need, and they can prepare to information you when you arrive.

Replacing a license if yours was stolen

If your license was stolen rather than straightforward lost, the process is the same — you still go to a DPS office with proof of identity and residency. However, if you believe your identity has been compromised (for example, if your wallet was stolen along with other documents), consider placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus or checking your credit report for unauthorized accounts.

You do not need a police report to replace a stolen license at the DPS, but if you filed one, you can bring it along. The DPS will issue a new license number if you request it, which can help protect you if you are concerned about identity theft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license at any DPS office, or do I have to go to the one in my county?

You can go to any DPS office in Texas, not just the one in your county. If there is an office closer to your work or home, you can use that one instead. Just bring proof of your current Texas address.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You will need to bring an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or other federal identification number instead. Contact your local DPS office before you visit to confirm what documents they will accept in place of a Social Security number.

How long is a replacement license valid?

You can choose whether your new license is valid for five or eight years when you explore. The eight-year license costs more but lasts longer, so you will not need to replace it as soon. Ask the DPS staff which option makes sense for your situation.

Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my replacement?

Texas does not issue temporary paper licenses. However, since most DPS offices issue your replacement license the same day or within a few days, you will have your new card quickly. If you need to drive before your license is ready, ask the DPS staff when it will be available.

What if my replacement license arrives with an error on it?

Return to the DPS office with your new license and proof of the error (such as a birth certificate if your name is spelled wrong). The DPS will issue a corrected license at no additional charge. Bring the same documents you brought the first time.