Where to get a replacement and what to bring
You get a replacement driver's license from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Secretary of State office, or equivalent agency — the name varies by state. Most states now let you order a replacement online through their official website, by mail, or in person at a local office. In-person replacement is usually fastest if you need the card within days rather than weeks.
Bring your current license if you still have it, or a state ID card. If your license was lost or stolen, bring a government-issued photo ID instead — a passport, military ID, or state ID will work. You will also need to prove your current address with a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement. Some states accept a pay stub or government mail as proof of address.
The fee for a replacement license varies by state, typically between $15 and $50. Some states charge less if you are replacing a lost or stolen card versus a damaged one. A few states offer free replacements in specific situations — for example, if your license was damaged by a natural disaster or if you are replacing it due to a name change from marriage or court order.
Key Takeaways
- You can order a replacement online, by mail, or in person at your state DMV or equivalent office, with online and mail orders taking one to three weeks and in-person service sometimes available same-day.
- Bring a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease.
- Replacement fees range from $15 to $50 depending on your state and the reason for replacement.
- If your license was stolen, report it to your state DMV before ordering a replacement to prevent someone else from using your number.
Online replacement: the fastest route for most states
Most states now offer online replacement through their DMV website. You log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, verify your address, pay the fee by debit or credit card, and the replacement card ships to your address within one to three weeks. This route requires that your current license is not expired and that you have not had a name change since it was issued.
Online replacement does not work if your license was stolen — you must report the theft first so your state can flag your number in the system. You also cannot use the online route if your address on file is outdated or if you need to update your photo. In those cases, you will need to visit an office in person or mail in a form.
To find your state's online replacement system, search "[your state] DMV replacement license" or go directly to your state's official DMV website. Avoid third-party sites that offer to process replacements for you — they charge extra fees and add unnecessary steps.
Reporting a lost or stolen license before you order
If your license was lost or stolen, contact your state DMV before ordering a replacement. This step prevents someone else from using your license number for fraud or to obtain credit in your name. You can usually report a lost or stolen license online through the same DMV website where you would order a replacement, or by phone.
When you report the loss or theft, your state will flag your license number as invalid. If your license was stolen, ask whether your state issues a new number with the replacement card or keeps the same number. Some states automatically issue a new number for stolen licenses; others keep the same number but mark the old card as void in their system.
After you report the loss or theft, you can proceed with ordering a replacement through whichever method is fastest for your situation — online, by mail, or in person.
In-person replacement at a DMV office
Going to a DMV office in person is the fastest way to get a replacement if you need it within days. Bring your government-issued photo ID, proof of address, and the fee. Some offices issue temporary paper licenses on the spot while your permanent card is printed and mailed; others mail the card only. Call ahead to confirm what your local office offers.
Wait times at DMV offices vary widely by location and time of day. Early morning on a weekday is usually faster than afternoon or weekend hours. Many states now let you reserve an appointment online, which can cut your wait time from hours to minutes. Check your state's DMV website to see whether appointments are available in your area.
If you cannot reach an office easily, mail-in replacement is usually the next-best option. Most states accept a signed form and copies of your ID and address proof sent by mail, and will process it within two to three weeks.
Mail-in replacement: timeline and what to send
To replace your license by mail, read the replacement form from your state DMV website, sign it, and mail it with a copy of your government-issued photo ID and proof of address. Include a check or money order for the replacement fee — most states do not accept credit cards by mail. Some states also require a new photo, which you can submit as a printed copy or digital file depending on the state's instructions.
Mail your package to the address listed on the form, not to a general DMV office address. Use certified mail or a tracked service so you can confirm delivery. Processing time is typically one to three weeks from the date your state receives your package, plus mail transit time on both ends.
Keep a copy of everything you mail, including the form and a photo of the envelope contents. If your replacement does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact your state DMV with your tracking number and the date you mailed the package.
Name changes and photo updates with your replacement
If you have had a name change since your license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or court order — you will need to update your name when you get a replacement. You cannot do this online; you must go in person or mail in a form with documentation of the name change. Bring your current license, a government-issued ID showing your new name (such as a passport or marriage certificate), and proof of address.
If you want to update your photo at the same time, you must do so in person at a DMV office. Some states let you submit a new photo by mail with your replacement form, but policies vary. Call your local DMV office or check the website to confirm whether photo updates are available by mail in your state.
A replacement with a name change or photo update may cost more than a standard replacement — fees vary by state. Ask about the total cost before you submit your form or visit the office.
What to do if your replacement does not arrive
If you ordered a replacement online or by mail and it does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact your state DMV with the date you submitted your order or mailed your form. Have your driver's license number and date of birth ready. The DMV can check whether your replacement was mailed and provide a tracking number if one is available.
If your replacement was lost in the mail, your state will usually reissue it at no additional cost. If the delay is longer than a few weeks, ask whether your state can issue a temporary paper license while you wait for the replacement card to be reprinted and mailed.
In the meantime, if you need to drive, you can use your old license even if it is damaged, as long as it is still valid and you have not reported it as stolen. If your old license was stolen, carry a copy of your DMV report or a temporary paper license if your state issued one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an expired license as ID when I go to the DMV to get a replacement?
Yes, an expired license counts as valid ID for a replacement. You can also use a passport, military ID, or state ID card. The DMV accepts expired photo ID as long as it shows your current name and face.
How long does a replacement license take if I order it online?
Online replacements typically arrive within one to three weeks from the date you submit your order, depending on your state and mail speed. Some states offer expedited shipping for an additional fee. In-person replacement at a DMV office is faster if you need the card within days.
What if my address changed since my license was issued?
You can update your address online in most states before you order a replacement, or you can bring proof of your new address when you go in person. If you order by mail, include a document showing your current address, such as a utility bill or lease.
Do I need a new photo for a replacement license?
No, most states reuse your existing photo for a replacement license. You only need a new photo if you want to update it, which usually requires an in-person visit to a DMV office. Some states let you submit a new photo by mail with your replacement form — check your state's policy.
What if I lost my license and do not have another photo ID?
Contact your state DMV to ask what documents they accept as proof of identity if you do not have a photo ID. Some states accept a combination of non-photo documents, such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, and utility bill. You may need to visit an office in person rather than ordering online or by mail.