Texas lets you replace a lost, stolen, or damaged driver's license entirely online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website — no visit to a DPS office required.
You can request a replacement license online if your current license is lost, stolen, or damaged beyond use. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) processes the request, prints your new license, and mails it to the address on file. The whole process takes place on their website; you do not need to visit an office or mail anything in.
The replacement arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after DPS approves your request. You will receive a confirmation email once your order is submitted, and another when your license ships. During that time, you can request a temporary paper license if you need to drive when ready.
Key Takeaways
- You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Texas driver's license on the DPS website without visiting an office or mailing documents.
- The replacement license costs $11 and arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days after approval.
- You must log into your existing DPS online account or create one to start the replacement request.
- If you need to drive before the replacement arrives, you can request a temporary paper license through the same online system.
- A replacement license is valid for the same expiration date as your original license unless you also renew.
What You Need Before You Start
Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and the address currently on file with DPS ready. You will also need a valid email address and a phone number where DPS can reach you. If your license was stolen, you should have filed a police report; DPS may ask for the report number, though it is not always required.
Your current or expired Texas driver's license number helps, but is not required — DPS can look up your record by name and date of birth. If you are replacing a license because it was damaged, you do not need to submit a photo of the damage; DPS will issue a new one based on your existing record.
Step-by-Step: Ordering Your Replacement Online
Go to the Texas DPS website and select "Driver License Services" from the main menu. Click on "Order a Replacement License" or navigate directly to the online ordering system. You will be asked to log in with your DPS online account credentials.
If you do not have an account, create one using your driver's license number, Social Security number, and date of birth. Once logged in, select the reason for replacement — lost, stolen, or damaged — and confirm the address where you want the license mailed. Review all information for accuracy, then proceed to payment.
The replacement fee is $11, paid by debit card or credit card at checkout. You will receive a confirmation number and an email receipt when ready. DPS will send a second email when your license is printed and shipped.
Getting a Temporary Paper License
If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, request a temporary paper license through the same DPS online system. The temporary license is valid for 45 days and can be printed at home when ready after you order it. You must carry it with your vehicle registration and proof of insurance when you drive.
The temporary license costs $11 and is separate from your replacement order — you pay for both if you want both. Some people order the temporary first, then order the permanent replacement once they confirm the temporary works for their needs. Both can be ordered on the same visit to the DPS website.
What Happens After You Submit Your Order
DPS processes replacement orders during business hours, Monday through Friday. Your order typically moves to printing within one business day. Once printed, your license is placed in the mail within 24 hours and arrives within 7 to 10 business days depending on your location and mail speed.
You can track your order status by logging back into your DPS account and viewing your order history. If your replacement does not arrive within 10 business days, contact DPS at 1-888-589-6789 to confirm the mailing address and request a status update. Keep your confirmation number handy when you call.
Replacing a License That Expired While Lost or Stolen
If your license expired before you realized it was lost or stolen, you have two options: replace it as-is and renew separately later, or renew and replace at the same time. Replacing alone costs $11 and keeps your current expiration date. Renewing and replacing together costs more but gives you a fresh license valid for six years.
If you choose to renew during replacement, you will need to provide a new photo. The online system will direct you to take a photo using your computer or phone camera, or you can visit a DPS office to have one taken. Most people find the online photo option faster, though the photo must meet DPS standards — well-lit, straight-on, no sunglasses or hats.
If Your Replacement Does Not Arrive or Arrives Damaged
Contact the Texas DPS by phone at 1-888-589-6789 or through their website contact form if your replacement does not arrive within 10 business days. Have your confirmation number and the address it was mailed to ready. DPS can reissue a replacement at no additional cost if the original was lost in the mail or arrived damaged.
If you receive a replacement with an error — wrong address, misspelled name, or incorrect information — contact DPS when ready. Corrections are usually made at no charge if the error was DPS's mistake. If the error was caused by information you provided during ordering, DPS may charge a small fee to correct and reissue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license if it is suspended or revoked?
No. You cannot order a replacement online if your license is under suspension or revocation. You must resolve the suspension or revocation first by paying fines, completing required courses, or meeting other DPS requirements. Once cleared, you can order a replacement through the normal online process.
What if I moved and my address on file is outdated?
Update your address in your DPS online account before you order the replacement. Log in, go to "Update Address," and enter your new address. The replacement will be mailed to the updated address. If you forget to update it before ordering, contact DPS when ready with your confirmation number to request a redirect.
Do I need to report my lost or stolen license to police?
You do not have to report it to police to order a replacement online, but you should if your license was stolen. A police report protects you if someone uses your license number fraudulently. DPS does not require the report number to process your replacement, but having one on file is good practice.
Can someone else order a replacement for me?
No. Only the license holder can order a replacement through the online system using their own DPS account login. A family member or representative cannot order on your behalf, even with permission. You must complete the order yourself using your Social Security number and date of birth.
What if I ordered a replacement but now found my original license?
Contact DPS at 1-888-589-6789 as soon as possible to cancel the replacement order if it has not shipped yet. If it has already shipped, you can refuse delivery or contact DPS to stop payment. Once you receive the replacement, you can keep it as a backup or destroy it. You cannot return it for a refund.