Report the loss to your state's DMV as soon as you notice it's missing
Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) directly — by phone, online, or in person — to report that your license is lost. The DMV will flag your license number in their system so it cannot be used by someone else. Most states let you report online or by phone without visiting an office, which is faster than going in person.
Have your driver's license number ready if you know it, or your full name and date of birth. The DMV staff member will ask basic identifying information to confirm you are the license holder. Once reported, your old license is officially cancelled in the system.
Reporting stops someone from using your license if they find it. It also protects you if the license is used fraudulently — the DMV record shows you reported it lost before any misuse occurred.
Key Takeaways
- Report your lost license to your state DMV by phone, online, or in person within a few days of discovering it missing.
- The DMV will cancel your old license number in their system so it cannot be used by anyone else.
- You will need to order a replacement license, which costs a fee that varies by state and usually takes one to two weeks to arrive.
- If your license was stolen rather than lost, file a police report as well so there is an official record in case of identity theft.
Order a replacement license at the same time you report the loss
When you contact the DMV to report the loss, ask about ordering a replacement. Many states let you do both in one transaction — report the lost license and request a new one when ready. Some DMVs charge a replacement fee (typically $10 to $30, though this varies by state) in addition to your regular renewal fee if your license is expiring soon.
You can order a replacement online in most states, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. Online is usually fastest. The DMV will mail your new license to the address on file, which normally takes one to two weeks. Some states offer expedited replacement for an extra fee if you need it sooner.
Ask the DMV whether your replacement will have the same license number or a new one. Most states issue a new number, which means you will need to update your number with your employer, insurance company, and any other organization that has it on file.
Find your state DMV's contact information and online portal
Search "[your state] DMV lost driver's license" to find the official website and phone number. Each state runs its own DMV, so the process and fees differ. The official state website will have a phone number, online reporting form, or both.
Many states have an online portal where you can report a lost license and order a replacement without calling. This is usually the fastest option if your state offers it. If you cannot find an online option, call the DMV's main number and ask to report a lost license.
Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address ready before you call or go online. Some states also ask for your license number if you remember it, though they can look it up by name and date of birth.
File a police report if your license was stolen
If someone stole your license rather than you straightforward losing it, file a police report with your local police department or sheriff's office. This creates an official record that your license was taken without your permission, which protects you if the license is used for fraud or identity theft.
You do not need to wait for the police report before reporting the loss to the DMV — report to the DMV when ready and file the police report separately. The police report is mainly for your protection in case someone uses your license information later.
When you file the police report, bring any details you remember about when and where you last had the license. The police will give you a report number; keep this for your records.
What to do while you wait for your replacement license
Your cancelled license is no longer valid for identification or driving. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you have a few options depending on your state. Some states issue a temporary paper license or digital license you can use when ready after reporting the loss. Others let you print a temporary document from their website showing your replacement is on order.
Ask the DMV whether a temporary license is available when you report the loss. If your state does not offer one, you may be able to drive with a copy of your DMV confirmation showing you reported the loss and ordered a replacement, though this varies by state and is not may provide to work with police. To be safe, avoid driving if possible until your new license arrives.
For non-driving identification, bring other documents like a passport, state ID card, or birth certificate. Banks, airlines, and most businesses will accept these instead of a driver's license.
Update your information with other organizations
Once your new license arrives, update your driver's license number with your auto insurance company, employer, and any other organization that has it on file. Your insurance company especially needs the new number because your policy is tied to your license number.
If your state issued you a new license number (which most do), notify your bank, credit card companies, and any government agencies that have your old number. This prevents confusion if they try to look up your information using the old number.
Check your credit report a few months after your license was lost to watch for fraudulent accounts opened in your name. You can get a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) once per year at annualcreditreport.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement license?
Standard replacement usually takes one to two weeks by mail. Some states offer expedited replacement for an extra fee that arrives in three to five business days. Ask your DMV about expedited options when you order.
Can I drive before my replacement license arrives?
It depends on your state. Some issue a temporary paper or digital license when ready after you report the loss. Others do not. Ask the DMV when you report whether a temporary is available. If not, avoid driving until your new license arrives.
Will my new license have the same number?
Most states issue a new license number when you replace a lost license. A few states reissue the same number. Ask the DMV which applies in your state so you know what to update with your insurance company and employer.
Do I need to go to the DMV in person to report a lost license?
No. Most states let you report online or by phone. In-person visits are usually only necessary if you cannot verify your identity online or by phone, or if your state requires it for replacement photos.
What if I find my license after I report it lost?
Your old license is cancelled and cannot be used, even if you find it. Destroy it so it cannot be used fraudulently. Keep your new replacement license when it arrives.