How to Order a Replacement Texas Driver's License

Where to order your replacement license

You can order a replacement Texas driver's license through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, by mail, or in person at a DPS driver license office. The online method is fastest — you can request a replacement in minutes without leaving home, and the license ships to your address in about 7 to 10 business days. If you prefer to handle it in person or by mail, both routes work, but they take longer.

The online option at dps.texas.gov is available 24/7. You'll need your Texas ID number or driver's license number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The replacement fee is $11 if you're ordering online or by mail, or $16 if you go to an office in person (prices as of 2024, though fees can change).

Key Takeaways

Order online at dps.texas.gov using your driver's license number, date of birth, and last four digits of your Social Security number.
Online and mail orders cost $11; in-person orders at a DPS office cost $16.
Online orders arrive in about 7 to 10 business days; mail orders take 2 to 3 weeks; in-person orders can be picked up the same day or mailed to you.
You do not need to take a new photo or pass a test — a replacement uses your existing photo and information from your original license.
If your license was stolen or you suspect fraud, report it to DPS before ordering a replacement so they can flag your account.

Ordering online through the DPS website

Go to dps.texas.gov and look for the "Driver License" section. Select "Order a Replacement License" or "Renew/Replace." You'll be asked to enter your driver's license number (the one on your lost or damaged license, if you know it), your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity using this information.

After verification, you'll choose whether to have the license mailed to you or pick it up at a DPS office. If you choose mail delivery, enter the address where you want it sent. Review the fee ($11) and complete the payment using a credit or debit card. You'll receive a confirmation number — save this in case you need to check on your order status later.

Your replacement license will be mailed within 7 to 10 business days. Standard mail delivery means you won't receive it on weekends or holidays, so plan accordingly if you need it by a specific date.

Ordering by mail

If you prefer not to order online, you can mail a request to the DPS. You'll need to send a completed form DL-44 (process for Texas Driver License) or a written request that includes your name, date of birth, driver's license number, current address, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Include a check or money order for $11 made payable to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Mail your request to the address listed on the DPS website under "Mailing Address for Driver License Services." Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date DPS receives your envelope, plus mail delivery time on both ends. This route is slower than online ordering but works if you don't have internet access or prefer a paper trail.

Ordering in person at a DPS office

You can walk into any Texas DPS driver license office and request a replacement on the spot. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address), and your original license if you still have it. If your license was lost or stolen, bring a police report or a written statement explaining what happened.

The fee at an office is $16. You can choose to have your replacement mailed to you (7 to 10 business days) or, at some offices, pick it up the same day if you pay an expedited fee. Call ahead to confirm whether your local office offers same-day pickup and what the additional cost is, as this varies by location.

What happens if your license was stolen or you suspect fraud

If your license was stolen rather than lost, or if you think someone may be using it fraudulently, contact the DPS before ordering a replacement. You can call the DPS Driver License Division at 1-888-589-6556 to report the theft. They will place a flag on your account so that if someone tries to use your old license, DPS staff will be alerted.

When you report a theft, ask DPS whether you should file a police report as well. Some situations — particularly if you suspect identity theft — may warrant a report with your local police department. Having both reports on file strengthens your protection if fraudulent activity occurs later.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin an online order: your driver's license number (or Texas ID number), your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. If you're ordering by mail or in person, you'll also need proof of residency and proof of your Social Security number. A utility bill, lease agreement, or recent bank statement works for residency. Your Social Security card, a W-2, or a tax return works for your Social Security number.

If your license was damaged (water-damaged, faded, or physically broken), you can still order a replacement using the same process. You do not need to explain the damage — DPS will issue a new license with your existing photo and information.

Tracking your replacement license

If you ordered online, save your confirmation number. You can use it to check the status of your order on the DPS website. The status will show whether your license has been printed, shipped, or delivered. If you ordered by mail, there is no tracking system, so you'll straightforward wait for it to arrive. If you ordered in person for mail delivery, ask the office staff for an estimated arrival date.

If your replacement doesn't arrive within the expected timeframe, contact the DPS Driver License Division at 1-888-589-6556. They can look up your order using your confirmation number or personal information and tell you where it is in the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. A replacement license uses your existing photo from your original license. You only take a new photo if you're renewing your license after it expires, not when you're replacing a lost or damaged one.

Can I use my old license number on the replacement, or will I get a new one?

Your replacement license will have the same number as your original license. The number stays with you unless you request a new one for privacy or security reasons, which requires a separate process.

What if I need my replacement license before the 7 to 10 business days?

If you order in person at a DPS office, some locations offer same-day pickup for an additional fee. Call your local office to ask whether this option is available and what it costs. Online and mail orders do not have expedited options.

Can I order a replacement if I'm out of state?

Yes. You can order online or by mail from anywhere. If you choose in-person ordering, you'll need to visit a DPS office in Texas, or you can have your replacement mailed to an out-of-state address.

What if my address has changed since my original license was issued?

When you order a replacement online, you can enter your current address. The replacement license will show your new address. If you order by mail or in person, provide your current address on the form or to the office staff, and your replacement will reflect the update.

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.