What you need to do right now
You can replace a lost or damaged Texas driver's license in person at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, by mail, or online through the DPS website — but the fastest route depends on whether your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, and whether you need to drive before the replacement arrives.
If your license was stolen, you should report it to DPS at the same time you request a replacement, because a stolen license can be used for identity fraud. If it's straightforward lost or damaged, you can often handle the whole process without visiting an office. Most replacements take one to two weeks by mail, or same-day if you go in person.
Key Takeaways
- You can replace a lost or damaged license online, by mail, or in person at any DPS office, and the method you choose determines how long it takes and what documents you need.
- A stolen license requires a police report number, which you can file online through your local police department's website or by phone.
- Online and mail replacements cost $16 and take one to two weeks; in-person replacements cost $20 and are ready the same day.
- You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address to start any replacement, plus proof of residency if you've moved since your last license.
Replacing your license online or by mail
The DPS website at dps.texas.gov lets you request a replacement license without leaving home if your license was lost or damaged (not stolen). You'll need your driver's license number, Social Security number, date of birth, and current address. The fee is $16, paid by credit or debit card.
The online process takes about 10 minutes. You upload a photo (or use the camera on your phone to take one), confirm your information, and submit. DPS mails the replacement to the address on file, which usually takes seven to ten business days. If you've moved since your last license, you'll need to upload proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works.
If you prefer to mail in your request instead, you can read the process form from the DPS website, print it, and mail it to the address listed on the form along with a check or money order for $16 and a copy of your proof of residency. This method takes longer — typically two to three weeks total — because of mail transit time both ways.
Replacing your license in person at a DPS office
Walk-in replacements at a DPS office take the same day. Bring your Social Security card (or a document with your Social Security number), proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the last 60 days), and payment of $20 in cash or card. You do not need to bring the damaged license itself, though it helps if you have it.
Find your nearest DPS office on the DPS website by entering your city or ZIP code. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some locations open Saturday mornings. Wait times vary by location and time of day; calling ahead can tell you whether it's busy. You'll be assigned a number, fill out the DL-44 form (available at the office), take a new photo, and walk out with your license in hand.
If your license was stolen
A stolen license needs to be reported to prevent someone else from using it. File a police report with your local police department — most departments let you file online through their website, or you can call the non-emergency line. You'll need the report number when you request the replacement.
Once you have the report number, you can replace the license using any of the three methods above (online, mail, or in person). When you file online or by mail, include the police report number in the process. If you go in person, bring the report number with you and mention that the license was stolen; DPS will flag it in their system so it cannot be used.
What happens after you request a replacement
If you applied online or by mail, DPS will mail your new license to the address you provided. Check the mail regularly — the envelope is plain and straightforward to miss. If you don't receive it within two weeks, contact DPS at 1-888-589-6789 to check the status.
If you received your license in person, you're done. If you need to drive before your mailed replacement arrives, you have two options: request an expedited replacement (which costs extra and takes three to five business days), or return to a DPS office for an in-person replacement and destroy the mailed one when it arrives.
Proof of residency and address changes
DPS accepts these documents as proof of residency: a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a government document with your current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and address.
If you've moved and your address on file with DPS is outdated, you must provide proof of your new address when you request the replacement. The new license will be mailed to the address you provide, not the old one on file. If you're explore in person, bring the proof of residency with you; if you're explore online or by mail, upload or mail a copy.
Cost and payment methods
A replacement license costs $16 if you order online or by mail, or $20 if you get it in person at a DPS office. Online and mail orders accept payment by credit or debit card (online) or check or money order (mail). In-person replacements accept cash, credit, or debit card.
There is no additional charge for a stolen license — the fee is the same. Expedited mail service (three to five business days instead of seven to ten) costs an extra $15 if you choose it when ordering online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive while I wait for my replacement license to arrive?
No. Once your license is lost or stolen, it is no longer valid for driving. If you need to drive before the replacement arrives, you must get a new license in person at a DPS office the same day. If you ordered by mail or online, you can cancel that order and go in person instead.
What if I don't have a Social Security card?
You need your Social Security number, but you don't need the physical card. A tax return, W-2, or 1099 form with your Social Security number works. If you're explore in person, bring one of these documents along with your proof of residency.
Do I need to take a new photo for a replacement license?
Yes. DPS takes a new photo whether you order online or in person. You can upload your own photo when ordering online (it must be a clear, straight-on headshot taken within the last 30 days), or DPS will take one when you visit an office.
How long is a replacement license valid?
A replacement license is valid for the same length as your original license. If your original license was set to expire in 2027, the replacement expires in 2027. You don't get extra time — the expiration date stays the same.
What if I lost my license out of state?
You can still replace it through DPS using any of the three methods, even if you're currently out of state. The replacement will be mailed to the address you provide. If you need a license to drive before it arrives, you'll need to travel back to Texas or contact DPS about other options.