Getting a replacement license in Missouri

If you've lost your Missouri driver's license, you can get a replacement through the Missouri Department of Revenue. You'll need to visit a driver examination office in person — you cannot replace a lost license by mail or online. The process takes about 15 minutes if you have the right documents, and your replacement license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

You do not need to retake the written or driving test. Missouri treats a lost license as a replacement, not a new license, so you keep your same license number and expiration date. The fee is $11.50 for a standard replacement.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Missouri driver examination office in person with a valid ID and proof of your Social Security number to get a replacement.
  • The replacement fee is $11.50, and your new license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
  • You can find your nearest office and check current wait times on the Missouri Department of Revenue website.
  • If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at the office.

What documents you need to bring

Bring one form of valid identification — a passport, military ID, or state ID card all work. You also need proof of your Social Security number. An original Social Security card is best, but a W-2 form, tax return, or 1099 will also work if your name matches exactly.

If your address has changed since your license was issued, bring a document showing your current address. A utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will do. If you're using someone else's address temporarily, bring a signed letter from the person who lives there saying you live there too.

Finding a driver examination office near you

Missouri has driver examination offices in most counties. You can search for the office closest to you on the Missouri Department of Revenue website — go to dor.mo.gov, select "Locations," and enter your city or ZIP code. The website also shows current wait times at each office, which vary widely depending on the day and time.

Many offices are busier on Saturdays and right after work hours on weekdays. If you can go on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning, you'll usually wait less than 30 minutes. Some offices take walk-ins only; others use an appointment system. Check your local office's page before you go.

Getting a temporary license while you wait

When you visit the office, ask for a temporary paper license. The staff will print one on the spot, and it's valid for 45 days while your replacement is being mailed. A temporary license looks like a printed form, not a card, but it's legal to drive with and counts as ID for most purposes.

If you lose the temporary license before your replacement arrives, you'll need to return to the office and pay another $11.50 for a second replacement. Keep the temporary in a safe place while you wait.

If your license was stolen or you suspect fraud

If someone stole your license or you think it might be used fraudulently, tell the staff at the driver examination office when you explore for the replacement. They can flag your old license number in the system so it cannot be used to rent a car or open accounts in your name.

You should also consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. A fraud alert tells lenders to verify your identity before opening new accounts. You can place one for free by calling any of the three bureaus; they'll notify the other two automatically.

Replacing a license if you've moved out of state

If you've moved to another state, you cannot renew or replace your Missouri license. You'll need to get a license from your new state instead. However, if you still live in Missouri but are temporarily out of state, you can ask a family member or friend to pick up your replacement license from the driver examination office on your behalf if you provide them with a signed letter giving them permission.

Some offices will mail the license to an out-of-state address if you request it when you explore. Call your local office ahead of time to ask whether they can do this, since policies vary by location.

What happens if you drive without a license

Driving without a valid license in Missouri is a traffic violation. If you're stopped by police and cannot show a license, you can be cited. However, if you can show proof that you applied for a replacement — such as a receipt from the driver examination office or a temporary paper license — the officer may not issue a citation.

Keep your temporary paper license with you at all times while you're waiting for your replacement to arrive. It's your proof that you're in the process of getting a valid license.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement license in the mail?

Missouri typically mails replacement licenses within 7 to 10 business days of your visit to the driver examination office. If you haven't received it after 10 days, contact the Missouri Department of Revenue to check the status. Delays can happen during busy periods or if there's an issue with your address.

Can I replace my license if it's expired?

Yes. A lost or damaged license can be replaced regardless of whether it's expired. However, if your license expired more than a year ago, you may need to pass the vision test at the office. Ask the staff when you arrive.

What if I lost my license outside of Missouri?

You still need to visit a Missouri driver examination office to report it lost and get a replacement. If you're far from home, you can call the Missouri Department of Revenue at 573-526-2407 to ask about your options, but a replacement must be processed in person at an office.

Do I have to pay the replacement fee if the license office lost my license?

No. If the driver examination office made an error and lost your license after you turned it in, they should replace it for free. Bring documentation of what happened, and speak with the office manager.

Can I get a replacement license the same day?

No. Missouri does not issue licenses on the same day. Your only option for when ready proof of identity is the temporary paper license, which is valid for 45 days while your replacement is mailed.