How to Replace a Lost or Damaged Pennsylvania Driver's License

You can replace your Pennsylvania driver's license by mail, online, or in person at a PennDOT office

Pennsylvania offers three routes to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged driver's license. The fastest is online through the PennDOT website if your license is not suspended and you have not had more than one replacement in the past year. Mail takes about two weeks. In-person replacement at a PennDOT Driver License Center takes a few hours but gives you a temporary license on the spot.

You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address to start any replacement. If you are replacing a damaged license, bring the damaged card with you or describe the damage when you explore. The replacement fee is $30.50 regardless of which method you choose.

Key Takeaways

Online replacement through the PennDOT website is the fastest option if you have not had more than one replacement in the past year and your license is not suspended.
Mail replacement takes about two weeks and requires you to submit a form and payment by mail to the address PennDOT provides.
In-person replacement at a PennDOT Driver License Center gives you a temporary license when ready and takes a few hours total.
All three methods cost $30.50 and require proof of your identity, Social Security number, and current address.
If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to police first, though it is not required to replace it.

Replace your license online through PennDOT

Go to the PennDOT website and select "Replace License" from the Driver License menu. You will enter your driver's license number, Social Security number, and date of birth. PennDOT will verify your information against their records and ask you to confirm your current mailing address.

You pay the $30.50 fee by credit or debit card during the online process. PennDOT will mail your new license to the address you provided. The new license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your old license (if you still have it) or a temporary paper license PennDOT emails you until the new card arrives.

Online replacement is not available if your license is suspended, revoked, or cancelled. You also cannot use the online method if you have had more than one replacement in the past 12 months — in that case, you must go in person or mail your request.

Replace your license by mail

read the DL-44 form from the PennDOT website or request one by calling 717-787-2828. Fill out the form completely, including your driver's license number, name, date of birth, and current address. Sign and date the form.

Mail the completed form along with a check or money order for $30.50 to the address listed on the form (this is typically the PennDOT office in Harrisburg). Include a note if your license was damaged, lost, or stolen. Do not send cash.

Processing takes about two weeks from the date PennDOT receives your mail. You can continue to use your old license during this time if you still have it. If your old license was lost or stolen, you may want to carry a copy of your mailed form as proof you requested a replacement, though police or other officials will usually accept your word that you submitted the request.

Replace your license in person at a PennDOT office

Find your nearest PennDOT Driver License Center on the PennDOT website by entering your zip code. Most centers are open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some offer limited Saturday hours. You do not need an appointment at most locations, but calling ahead to check wait times is a good idea.

Bring your current driver's license if you still have it, or bring a photo ID such as a passport. Bring proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return works). Bring proof of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the past 60 days.

Tell the staff member at the counter that you need to replace your license. They will verify your information, take a new photo, and collect the $30.50 fee by cash, check, or card. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent card is mailed to you. The permanent license arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

What to do if your license was stolen

If your license was stolen, you can report it to local police, though this is not required to replace it. A police report can be useful if someone uses your license number fraudulently, but PennDOT will replace your license whether or not you file a report.

When you replace your license (online, by mail, or in person), mention that it was stolen. PennDOT may flag your record to watch for fraud. If you are concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them.

Replacing a damaged license

If your license is damaged but not lost — for example, the card is cracked, faded, or the magnetic strip no longer works — you can replace it using any of the three methods. Bring the damaged card with you if you are going in person, or mention the damage when you mail your request or explore online.

You do not need to pay a separate fee for a damaged card replacement; the $30.50 fee covers it. PennDOT will destroy your old card and mail you a new one with the same license number and expiration date.

Timeline and what to expect next

Online replacement is fastest: your new license arrives in 7 to 10 business days. Mail replacement takes about two weeks from the date PennDOT receives your form. In-person replacement gives you a temporary license the same day and a permanent license in 7 to 10 business days.

Once your new license arrives, destroy your old one or keep it in a safe place — do not carry both. If you received a temporary paper license, discard it once your permanent card arrives. Your new license will have the same number as your old one and the same expiration date, so you do not need to update your address with your insurance company or employer unless you moved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license if it is suspended?

No, you cannot replace a suspended license online or by mail. You must go in person to a PennDOT Driver License Center. Bring proof of identity and address. The staff will explain the suspension and what you need to do to lift it before you can receive a new license.

What if I moved and my license has my old address?

You can replace your license and update your address at the same time using any method. When you explore online, by mail, or in person, provide your new address. Your replacement license will show your current address. There is no extra fee for an address change during replacement.

How long is a replacement license valid?

Your replacement license is valid for the same length of time as your original license. If your original license was set to expire in 2027, your replacement license will also expire in 2027. You do not get extra time because you replaced it.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. PennDOT mails replacement licenses only to the address on file. You cannot have someone else collect it from a PennDOT office. If you are moving, update your address before you request the replacement so it goes to your new home.

What if I lost my license and do not remember my license number?

For online replacement, you will need your license number. If you do not have it, use the mail or in-person method instead. For mail or in-person replacement, you can provide your name, date of birth, and Social Security number, and PennDOT will look up your license number in their system.

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.