Get a replacement license at the DC DMV in person or by mail

If you've lost your DC driver's license, you can replace it without retaking the written or road test. The DC Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will issue a duplicate license with the same number and expiration date as your original. You have two options: visit a DMV service center in person, or request a replacement by mail if you meet certain conditions.

The in-person route is faster — you can walk out with a temporary license the same day and receive your plastic card by mail within two weeks. The mail route takes longer but works if you can't visit an office and your license hasn't been suspended or revoked.

Key Takeaways

  • You can replace a lost DC license at any DMV service center with your Social Security number, date of birth, and proof of residency — no appointment needed.
  • A replacement license costs $37 and keeps your original license number and expiration date.
  • You'll receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card arrives by mail in 10 to 14 business days.
  • If you cannot visit in person, you can mail a request with a completed form, payment, and copies of required documents, though this takes 3 to 4 weeks total.
  • Report your lost license to DC police if you believe it was stolen, as this protects you from identity theft and fraud.

What you need to bring to the DMV

Bring your Social Security number (written down or memorized), your date of birth, and one document proving your current DC address. The DMV accepts a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A pay stub with your address also works.

You do not need to bring your old license — it's lost. You do not need an appointment; walk-in service is available at all DC DMV locations during business hours. If you have a valid passport or passport card, bring it as well, though it's not required.

The in-person replacement process

Go to any DC DMV service center. Take a number at the front desk and wait to be called. Tell the representative you need a duplicate license due to loss. They will verify your identity using your Social Security number and date of birth, check your driving record, and confirm your address with the document you brought.

You'll pay $37 by cash, check, or card. The DMV will take a new photo and print a temporary paper license on the spot — this is valid for 45 days and lets you drive legally while you wait for your plastic card. Your permanent license arrives by mail in 10 to 14 business days. If you need to drive before then, the temporary license is sufficient for traffic stops and rental car counters.

Replacing your license by mail

You can request a replacement by mail if your license has not been suspended, revoked, or cancelled. read the process for Duplicate Driver's License form (DL-43) from the DC DMV website or pick one up at any service center. Fill in your name, license number (if you remember it), date of birth, and current address.

Mail the completed form, a check or money order for $37 made payable to "DC DMV," and a copy of your proof of residency to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. The DMV will process your request in 3 to 4 weeks and mail your new license. You will not receive a temporary license by mail, so this option only works if you don't need to drive during the wait.

DC DMV service center locations and hours

The main DMV service center is at 50 K Street NE, open Monday through Friday 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. and Saturday 8:15 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. A second location at 1591 14th Street NW keeps the same hours. Both accept walk-ins; lines are typically shorter in the mid-morning and mid-afternoon.

Check the DC DMV website before you go to confirm current hours, as holiday schedules and staffing changes can affect availability. You can also call 311 (the DC non-emergency line) to ask about wait times at each location.

Protecting yourself if your license was stolen

If you believe your license was stolen rather than straightforward lost, file a report with the DC Metropolitan Police Department. You can file online through their website or call the non-emergency line at 311. Include the date you last saw your license and where you think it was lost or taken.

A police report creates an official record that protects you if someone tries to use your license for fraud or identity theft. Keep a copy of the report number for your records. You do not need the police report to replace your license at the DMV, but having one on file is a safeguard if your lost license is used fraudulently later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with an expired temporary license while I wait for my permanent one?

No. Your temporary paper license is valid for 45 days from the date it's issued. If your permanent license hasn't arrived by then, you can request an extension at any DMV service center. Bring your temporary license and proof of residency, and the DMV will issue a new temporary license valid for another 45 days.

What if I don't remember my license number?

You don't need it to replace your license in person — the DMV will look it up using your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. If you're replacing by mail, leave that field blank on the form and the DMV will find your record.

Do I have to replace my license if I find it after I've already gotten a duplicate?

No. Once you've received your replacement license, the old one is deactivated in the system. If you find your original license later, you can straightforward destroy it or keep it as a backup. Do not attempt to use both licenses — only your replacement is valid.

How much does a replacement license cost?

A duplicate license costs $37 in DC. This is the same price whether you replace it in person or by mail. The fee covers the new card and the administrative processing.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. You must pick up your temporary license in person at the DMV. Your permanent plastic license is mailed to the address on file, so it arrives at your home without requiring you to go back to the DMV.