Getting a replacement license when yours is lost or stolen
To replace a lost driver's license in Texas, you need to visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person with proof of identity and residency. You cannot replace a lost license by mail or online — the state requires you to appear and have a new photo taken. The process takes about 20 to 30 minutes at the office, and you'll pay a replacement fee. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
If your license was stolen, you have an extra step: you should report the theft to local police and bring the police report number with you to the DPS office. This protects you if someone tries to use your license number fraudulently. You don't need the actual report document, just the number.
Key Takeaways
- You must go to a DPS office in person with a photo ID and proof of your current address to get a replacement license.
- Bring a police report number if your license was stolen, not just lost.
- The replacement fee is $16 for a standard license, and you pay at the DPS office when you explore.
- Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days, so plan for that wait if you need to drive before then.
- If you need to drive when ready, you can request a temporary paper license at the DPS office to use while you wait for the replacement.
What documents to bring to the DPS office
You need two things: a photo ID and proof of your current address. For photo ID, bring a passport, military ID, state ID card, or another government-issued ID with your photo. If you don't have a photo ID, you can bring a combination of documents like a Social Security card plus a birth certificate, but this takes longer and may require a supervisor to approve.
For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 90 days. A phone bill, insurance bill, or government mail also works. If you've moved recently and don't have a document in your new address yet, bring a lease or purchase agreement showing your move-in date.
Bring your Social Security number written down or memorized — you'll need it to fill out the process form at the office. If you've changed your name since your lost license was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change.
Finding a DPS office and what to expect when you arrive
Texas has DPS driver license offices in most cities and many smaller towns. Search for "DPS driver license office near me" or visit the Texas DPS website to find the office closest to you and check its hours. Some offices take walk-ins, but many now use an online appointment system. Check the specific office's page to see if you need to book a time slot or if you can arrive without one.
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with all your documents. At the office, tell the staff member at the front desk that you're replacing a lost license. They'll give you an process form (Form DL-44) to fill out. You'll answer questions about your address, any name changes, and whether your license was lost or stolen. If it was stolen, write down the police report number in the space provided.
After you submit the form, a staff member will take a new photo for your license. They'll review your documents, collect the $16 fee, and give you a receipt. Ask for a temporary paper license at this time if you need to drive before your replacement arrives — not all offices issue these, but it's worth requesting.
The replacement fee and payment methods
The fee to replace a lost or stolen driver's license in Texas is $16. This is the same price whether your license was lost or stolen. You pay this fee at the DPS office when you submit your process — the office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices may also accept checks, but call ahead to confirm if you plan to pay by check.
The $16 fee covers the replacement license only. If you need a temporary paper license to drive while you wait for your replacement to arrive, there is no additional charge for that — it's included in the $16 fee or issued at no cost, depending on the office.
How long the replacement takes and what happens next
After you leave the DPS office, your new license is printed and mailed to the address you provided on your process. Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. You should receive it in an envelope from the Texas DPS. If you don't receive it within 14 business days, contact the DPS to check the status of your replacement.
While you wait, you can drive using the temporary paper license if you received one at the office. If you didn't receive a temporary license and need to drive, you have a few options: ask the DPS office if they can issue one retroactively (some will), ask a family member or friend to drive you, or use a ride-sharing service until your replacement arrives.
Once your new license arrives, destroy the temporary paper license if you have one. Your new license is valid for 8 years if you're under 85 years old, or 4 years if you're 85 or older. The expiration date will be printed on the front of the card.
What to do if your replacement doesn't arrive
If your new license doesn't arrive within 14 business days, contact the Texas DPS to report it. You can call the DPS customer service line or visit a DPS office in person. Have your Social Security number and the date you applied ready when you call. The DPS can check whether your replacement was mailed and provide a tracking status.
If your replacement was lost in the mail, the DPS can issue another one. You may have to pay the $16 fee again, depending on how long it's been since you applied. If your replacement was never mailed due to an error at the office, the DPS should reissue it at no additional charge.
Replacing your license if you're out of state or unable to visit an office
Texas does not allow you to replace a lost license by mail or online, and you cannot use a representative to explore on your behalf. You must appear in person at a DPS office. If you're temporarily out of state, you have two options: wait until you return to Texas to visit a DPS office, or find a DPS office in the state where you are and ask if they can help (some states have reciprocal agreements, but this is not may provide).
If you're unable to leave your home due to a disability or medical condition, contact your local DPS office to ask about accommodations. Some offices can arrange for you to explore at a different location or may have other options available. Explain your situation when you call, and ask what the office can do to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license if it's expired?
Yes. A lost or stolen license can be replaced even if it was expired. You'll receive a new license with a new expiration date (8 years from the date you explore if you're under 85). The replacement process is the same whether your license was current or expired.
What if I lost my license and also need to change my address?
You can do both at the same time when you visit the DPS office. Fill out the replacement process with your new address, bring proof of that address, and the DPS will issue a replacement license with your updated address. There's no extra fee for the address change.
Do I need a police report to replace a lost license?
No. A police report is not required to replace a lost license. However, if your license was stolen, filing a police report and bringing the report number protects you in case someone tries to use your license number. The DPS office will accept your process either way.
Can someone else pick up my replacement license from the DPS office?
No. Texas requires you to pick up your replacement license in person at a DPS office, or it will be mailed to you. You cannot have someone else collect it for you. Your new license will arrive by mail automatically if you don't pick it up at the office.
What if I lost my license and my Social Security card at the same time?
You can still replace your license. Bring your Social Security number from memory or from any document that shows it (tax return, bank statement, insurance form). If you can't remember your number, contact the Social Security Administration to confirm it before you visit the DPS office. You'll need your number to complete the replacement process.