What you need to do to get a replacement Virginia driver's license
To replace a lost or stolen Virginia driver's license, you visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in person with proof of identity and residency, pay a replacement fee, and have your photo taken. The process takes about 30 minutes at the counter. You'll leave with a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while your plastic card is mailed to you, which typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
Virginia does not issue replacement licenses by mail or online, so you cannot avoid the in-person visit. However, you can reduce wait time by scheduling an appointment through the DMV website before you go.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Virginia DMV office in person with a valid form of ID and proof of your current address to replace your license.
- The replacement fee is $24 for a standard license, and you pay at the time of your visit.
- You will receive a temporary paper license when ready that is valid for 45 days, and your plastic card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- Scheduling an appointment online before you visit can cut your wait time significantly, though walk-ins are accepted.
- If your license was stolen, you may want to file a police report first, though it is not required to get a replacement.
Documents you need to bring to the DMV
Bring one form of primary identification — a valid passport, a valid passport card, a military ID, or a Real ID-compliant Virginia ID card. If you do not have any of these, you can use two forms of secondary ID instead, such as a birth certificate and a Social Security card, but the process takes longer and you may be asked to return with additional documents.
You also need proof of your current Virginia address. This can be a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government document with your name and address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from your employer or a school also works if it shows your current address.
Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized. You do not need to bring the physical card, but you will need to provide the number when you explore.
Where to go and how to schedule an appointment
Find your nearest DMV office on the Virginia DMV website by entering your zip code. The site lists all locations, hours, and phone numbers. Most cities have at least one office; larger areas have several.
To schedule an appointment, go to the Virginia DMV website and select "Schedule an Appointment." Choose your preferred location and date. Appointments are usually available within a few days. If you cannot find an available time or prefer to walk in, most offices accept walk-ins, though you may wait 30 minutes to an hour depending on how busy the office is that day.
If you call the DMV directly, have your zip code ready. The phone line can tell you current wait times and help you schedule, but the website is faster.
The replacement fee and payment methods
The fee to replace a lost or stolen Virginia driver's license is $24. This is a one-time charge; you do not pay again if the card is damaged in the mail or if you need to reorder.
The DMV accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at the counter. Some offices also accept checks, but call ahead to confirm. You pay when you submit your process, not before.
What happens after you explore
After you complete your process and have your photo taken, the DMV will print a temporary paper license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 45 days and has the same legal weight as a plastic card — you can use it to drive, board a plane, or enter a federal building. Keep it in a safe place.
Your permanent plastic license is mailed to the address you provided on your process. Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you applied. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact the DMV to check the status.
Once your plastic card arrives, the temporary paper license is no longer valid, even if it has not expired. Destroy it or keep it for your records — you cannot use it after the plastic card arrives.
If your license was stolen
If your license was stolen rather than lost, you may want to file a police report, especially if you are concerned about identity theft. A police report is not required to get a replacement license, but it creates an official record that can help if someone uses your stolen license number fraudulently.
When you explore for your replacement at the DMV, you do not need to mention the theft — the DMV does not distinguish between lost and stolen licenses during the replacement process. The replacement fee and timeline are the same either way.
If you are worried 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. This alerts lenders to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license if it is expired?
Yes. A replacement is treated the same whether your license is expired, lost, or stolen. You will receive a new license with a new expiration date — typically eight years from the date you explore if you are under 75 years old. Bring the same documents you would for any replacement.
What if I do not have proof of my current address?
Contact the DMV office you plan to visit and ask what alternative documents they will accept. Some offices can work with you if you have a lease that has not yet been dated, a recent utility bill in a roommate's name at your address, or other documentation. Calling ahead prevents a wasted trip.
How long is the temporary paper license valid?
The temporary license is valid for 45 days from the date you receive it. After your plastic card arrives, the temporary license is no longer valid. If your plastic card is delayed and your temporary license is about to expire, contact the DMV — they can issue a second temporary license in some cases.
Can I get a replacement license with a different name or address than my current one?
No. A replacement license must match your current legal name and address. If you have changed your name or moved, you will need to update that information first. The DMV can help you change your address during the replacement process, but a legal name change requires additional documents and a separate transaction.
What if my replacement license arrives damaged or with errors?
Contact the DMV with a photo of the damage or a description of the error. They will reissue your license at no additional charge. Mail the damaged card back to the address they provide, or bring it to an office in person.