What you need to do to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license
A replacement driver's license is a new card issued when your current one is lost, stolen, damaged, or unreadable. You do not need to retake the written or driving test — the DMV will print a new card with the same license number and expiration date as your original. The process is faster than getting your first license, but the exact steps and fees depend on which state you live in.
Most states let you request a replacement in person at a DMV office, by mail, or online through their website. Some states charge a replacement fee (typically $10 to $30), and a few waive the fee if your license was stolen and you file a police report. The new card usually arrives within one to three weeks if you order by mail, or the same day if you go in person.
Key Takeaways
- You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license without retaking any tests — the DMV prints a new card with your same license number.
- Most states offer replacement by mail, online, or in person, and the method you choose affects how long you wait and what you pay.
- You will need to prove your identity with documents like a passport, birth certificate, or Social Security card, depending on your state's rules.
- Replacement fees range from free to about $30, and some states waive the fee if you file a police report for a stolen license.
- If your license was stolen, file a police report first — some states require it to waive the fee, and it protects you from identity theft.
Check your state's DMV website for the exact process
Each state runs its own DMV and sets its own rules for replacements. The fastest way to find out what you need is to visit your state's official DMV website and search for "replacement license" or "duplicate license." The site will tell you whether you can order online, by mail, or in person only, and what documents to bring or send.
If you cannot find the information online, call your state's DMV customer service line. Have your license number ready if you still have it, or your date of birth and full name. The DMV can tell you the fee, the processing time, and whether you need an appointment or can walk in.
Gather your identity documents before you explore
All states require you to prove your identity when you request a replacement. The documents accepted vary by state, but most will take a passport, birth certificate, Social Security card, or a combination of two documents (such as a utility bill plus a bank statement). Some states also accept a school ID or employee ID if it has your photo.
If you are replacing a license because it was stolen, bring a copy of the police report if your state offers a fee waiver for theft. Even if your state does not waive the fee, filing a report protects you — a stolen license can be used for identity theft or fraud, and the report creates a record in case someone uses it illegally.
explore in person, by mail, or online depending on what your state offers
In person: Go to your local DMV office with your identity documents and the replacement fee. Bring your old license if you still have it. The DMV will take a new photo, print the card, and you can usually leave with it the same day or within a few hours. You may need an appointment — check your state's website to see if you can walk in or must book ahead.
By mail: Request a replacement form from your state's DMV website or call to have one mailed to you. Fill it out, include copies of your identity documents and the fee (usually a check or money order), and mail the packet to the address on the form. Processing takes one to three weeks, and the new license arrives by mail. Keep a copy of what you send in case there are questions.
Online: Some states let you order a replacement through their DMV website without going in person. You will upload photos of your identity documents, pay the fee by credit or debit card, and the license ships to your address. This option is the fastest for mail delivery and requires no trip to the DMV, but not all states offer it yet.
What to do if you need to drive before the new license arrives
If you ordered a replacement by mail and need to drive before it arrives, ask the DMV for a temporary paper license or receipt showing you have applied. Some states issue this on the spot when you explore in person, or by mail if you request it. A temporary license is usually valid for 30 to 60 days and lets you drive legally while you wait for the permanent card.
If your state does not offer a temporary license, you have two options: wait for the permanent one to arrive, or go in person to a DMV office to get a replacement on the same day. Same-day replacement costs the same as mail replacement in most states, so the choice depends on whether you can get to the DMV and how urgently you need to drive.
Understand the fee and any waivers your state offers
Replacement license fees typically range from free to $30, depending on your state. Some states charge a flat fee for all replacements. Others charge less if the license is damaged (wear and tear) than if it is lost or stolen. A few states waive the fee entirely if you file a police report for theft.
Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee and any waivers. If your license was stolen, ask whether filing a police report will waive or reduce the fee before you pay. Some states require the report number on your process, so file the report first and keep the number.
Protect yourself if your license was stolen
A stolen license is a risk for identity theft because it has your name, address, date of birth, and sometimes your signature. File a police report as soon as you realize it is missing, even if you plan to replace it right away. The report creates an official record and may help if someone tries to use the stolen license fraudulently.
After you file the report, monitor your credit for suspicious activity. You can check your credit report for free once a year at annualcreditreport.com. If you see accounts or inquiries you did not open, contact the creditor or the credit bureau to dispute them. Some states also let you place a fraud alert on your credit file, which makes it harder for someone to open accounts in your name.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement license?
Same-day or a few hours if you go in person to a DMV office. One to three weeks if you order by mail. Online orders vary by state but usually arrive within two weeks. Call your state's DMV to ask about current processing times, as they can be longer during busy periods.
Can I get a replacement if my license is suspended or revoked?
No. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get a replacement until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact your state's DMV to find out why your license is suspended and what you need to do to restore it.
Do I need to retake the written or driving test for a replacement?
No. A replacement is a new card with the same license number and expiration date. You only retake tests if you are renewing after your license expires, or if the DMV suspects fraud or a clerical error.
What if I lost my license and do not have my license number?
You can still get a replacement. Bring your birth certificate, passport, or other identity document with your full name and date of birth. The DMV will look up your license record in their system and issue a replacement. If you cannot remember your address at the time you got the license, bring a recent utility bill or lease to confirm your current address.
Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?
This depends on your state. Some states allow a family member or authorized person to pick up a license if you give them written permission and they bring ID. Others require you to pick it up yourself. Call your state's DMV to ask what they allow.