Where to get a replacement license and what to bring

To replace a lost driver's license in Texas, you must visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver license office in person. You cannot renew or replace a license by mail, phone, or online, even if your license is still valid. The state requires you to appear with identification documents so staff can verify your identity before issuing a replacement.

Bring an original or certified copy of one of these documents: a birth certificate, passport, consular report of birth abroad, certificate of naturalization, or permanent resident card. You will also need proof of your Social Security number — a Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form works. If your address has changed since your lost license was issued, bring proof of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days. You do not need to bring the lost license itself. The DPS system will flag it as lost or stolen once you report it, and the replacement will have a new number and issue date.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit a DPS driver license office in person with an original identity document, proof of Social Security number, and proof of current address if it has changed.
  • The replacement fee is $16 for a standard license valid for five years, or $32 for a Real ID-compliant license valid for five years.
  • Processing takes about 20 to 30 minutes at the office, and you receive a temporary paper license when ready while the plastic card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
  • You can check wait times and book an appointment online through the DPS website before you go, which often reduces time spent in the office.
  • If you lost your license out of state, you can still replace it at any Texas DPS office as long as you have the required documents.

Finding a DPS office near you and booking an appointment

Texas has over 100 DPS driver license offices across the state. Use the office locator on the DPS website (dps.texas.gov) to find the nearest location, hours, and current wait times. Many offices now allow you to book an appointment online through the same system, which can cut your wait time significantly — some offices show wait times of 30 minutes or more during peak hours, while appointment holders are often seen within 15 minutes.

Walk-ins are accepted at all offices, but appointment slots fill up quickly, especially in urban areas. If you book an appointment, arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. If you walk in without an appointment, arrive early in the morning or mid-week to avoid the longest lines. Booking ahead is free and takes less than five minutes on the DPS website.

Fees and what you receive

A standard five-year driver's license costs $16. A Real ID-compliant license (required for federal building access and domestic air travel after May 2025) costs $32. Payment is accepted in cash, debit, or credit card at the office — no checks.

You will receive a temporary paper license when ready after your appointment. This temporary license is valid for driving and is recognized by law enforcement. Your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact the DPS to check the status of your order.

Real ID versus standard license: which to choose

A Real ID-compliant license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal identification standards. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID license or passport to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. If you fly domestically or visit federal offices, getting a Real ID now avoids having to replace your license again in a few years.

A standard license is valid for driving and state identification but will not meet federal requirements after May 2025. If you rarely fly or visit federal buildings, a standard license is sufficient and costs half as much. Both licenses are valid for five years from the issue date, and you can upgrade from a standard to a Real ID license at any time by visiting a DPS office and paying the difference in fees.

If your license was stolen or used fraudulently

Report a stolen license to the DPS when ready by calling 1-888-589-6556 or visiting a driver license office. The DPS will flag the lost or stolen license in its system so it cannot be used for identity fraud. This does not prevent you from getting a replacement — it actually speeds up the process because the DPS already knows the license is no longer in your possession.

If you suspect your license was used fraudulently — for example, someone was cited or arrested using your license number — contact the local police department in the jurisdiction where the incident occurred and file a report. Bring a copy of that report to the DPS office when you replace your license. The DPS can note the fraudulent use in your file and may issue you a new license number to prevent further confusion.

Replacing a license if you have changed your name

If you have changed your name since your lost license was issued, bring documentation of the name change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. The DPS will issue a new license with your current legal name. The process is the same as a standard replacement — you still need identity and Social Security documents, and the fee remains $16 or $32 depending on whether you want Real ID.

The name change document must be an original or certified copy. If you have changed your name multiple times, bring documentation for each change in chronological order so the DPS can verify your legal name history.

What to do while you wait for your permanent license

Your temporary paper license is valid for driving when ready after you leave the DPS office. Keep it in your wallet or vehicle at all times while you wait for the plastic card. Law enforcement will accept the temporary license as proof of a valid Texas driver's license.

If you need to travel by air before your permanent license arrives, use your passport or another form of federal ID instead. The temporary paper license is not accepted at airport security checkpoints. If your permanent license does not arrive within two weeks, call the DPS at 1-888-589-6556 to request a status check or reissue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. You must have a valid visa, work permit, or permanent resident card and proof of Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Bring the same identity and address documents as any other applicant. Non-citizens can hold a standard or Real ID license.

What if I lost my license out of state?

You can replace it at any Texas DPS office as long as you have the required documents and your Texas license is still valid. If your Texas license has expired, you will need to renew it instead of replacing it, which requires an eye test and written exam.

Can I get a replacement license if my current license is suspended or revoked?

No. The DPS will not issue a replacement if your license is under suspension or revocation. You must resolve the suspension or revocation first — usually by paying fines, completing a required course, or meeting other conditions set by the court or DPS. Contact the DPS or the court that issued the suspension to learn what steps are required.

What if I never received my permanent license in the mail?

Contact the DPS at 1-888-589-6556 with your temporary license number or driver's license number. They can check whether the card was mailed and provide a tracking status. If the card was lost in the mail, the DPS can reissue it or you can visit an office for a replacement.

How much does it cost to replace a lost license?

A standard five-year license costs $16, and a Real ID-compliant license costs $32. Payment is accepted in cash, debit, or credit card at the DPS office. There are no additional fees for reporting a lost or stolen license.