Where to request a new licence and what you'll need

You request a new driving licence through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), though the name varies by state — it may be called the Secretary of State, Registry of Motor Vehicles, or Department of Transportation. You can usually start the process online, by mail, or in person at a local office. The fastest route is often online if your state offers it, because you avoid waiting in line and get a tracking number when ready.

Before you start, gather your current licence (if you still have it), proof of identity such as a passport or birth certificate, and proof of your current address like a utility bill or lease. If your licence was lost or stolen, you may need to report that separately to your local police department first — some states require a police report number when you request a replacement. Check your state's DMV website for the exact documents they want, because requirements vary.

Key Takeaways

  • You request a replacement licence through your state's DMV, which you can usually do online, by mail, or in person.
  • You will need your current licence if you have it, a form of photo ID, and proof of your address.
  • If your licence was lost or stolen, some states require you to file a police report before requesting a replacement.
  • Processing times range from one to three weeks by mail and same-day to a few days in person, depending on your state.
  • The cost of a replacement licence varies by state but typically falls between $20 and $75.

Requesting online through your state DMV

Most states now let you request a replacement licence on their DMV website without visiting an office. Go to your state's official DMV site, look for "replace licence" or "duplicate licence", and follow the prompts. You will enter your licence number, date of birth, and the reason you need a replacement — lost, stolen, or damaged. The system will verify your identity using information from your licence record.

After you complete the online form, you will usually pay the replacement fee by credit or debit card. Your state will then mail the new licence to the address on file, or you can choose to pick it up at a local office if that option is offered. The website will give you a confirmation number and tell you the expected delivery date. Save this confirmation number in case you need to check on your order later.

Requesting by mail

If you prefer to mail in your request, read the replacement licence form from your state's DMV website or pick one up at a local office. Fill it out completely, including your licence number, current address, and the reason for replacement. Attach copies of your proof of identity and proof of address — do not send originals, as you will not get them back.

Mail the form and documents to the address listed on your state's DMV website, usually a central processing facility. Include a check or money order for the replacement fee — do not send cash. Mail processing typically takes one to three weeks, depending on your state's volume. If you need the licence sooner, ask whether your state offers expedited mail service for an additional fee.

Requesting in person at a DMV office

Walking into a local DMV office is often the fastest way to get a replacement licence, though you may wait in line. Bring your current licence, photo ID, proof of address, and the replacement fee in cash or card. Tell the clerk you need a duplicate or replacement licence and explain whether it was lost, stolen, or damaged.

Many states can print a temporary licence on the spot that you can use while your permanent one is mailed to you. The permanent licence usually arrives within a few days. Some states also offer same-day pickup if you pay an expedited fee, though this varies widely. Call your local office before you go to ask whether same-day service is available and whether you need an appointment.

What to do if your licence was lost or stolen

If your licence was stolen rather than straightforward lost, some states require you to file a police report first. Contact your local police department's non-emergency line and report the theft. They will give you a report number, which you will need when you request the replacement. This step protects you by creating an official record in case someone tries to use your stolen licence.

When you request the replacement, mention that the licence was stolen and provide the police report number. This may move your request up in the queue in some states. If you are concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — by contacting any one of them.

Processing times and costs by state

How long you wait and what you pay depends on your state and the method you choose. Online requests typically process in one to two weeks. Mail requests take one to three weeks. In-person requests at a DMV office can be same-day or a few days, depending on whether your state prints licences on-site or mails them.

Replacement licence fees range from about $20 to $75 across the United States. Some states charge less for a lost licence and more for a stolen one if you did not file a police report. A few states offer free replacements within a certain time window if your licence was damaged due to a manufacturing defect. Check your state's DMV website or call the office to confirm the exact fee before you submit your request.

What happens after you request your replacement

Once your request is processed, your new licence will be mailed to the address on file or held for pickup, depending on which option you chose. You should receive it within the timeframe your state gave you. If more than a week has passed beyond that date, contact your DMV to check the status — use the confirmation number you received when you submitted your request.

Until your new licence arrives, you can drive using your old licence if you still have it, or a temporary paper licence if your state issued one. Some states also let you print a temporary digital licence on your phone through their DMV app. If you need to renew your licence at the same time you are replacing it, ask whether you can do both in one transaction, as this may save you a trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive while I wait for my replacement licence?

Yes, if you still have your old licence, you can drive with it until the replacement arrives. If your licence was lost or stolen, ask your DMV whether they issue a temporary paper licence or digital licence you can use in the meantime. Some states do, others do not.

What if I moved and my address changed since my last licence?

Update your address with your DMV at the same time you request the replacement. You will need proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease. Some states let you update your address online; others require you to do it in person or by mail.

Do I need to take a new photo for my replacement licence?

Usually no — your state will use the photo from your current licence unless it is damaged or very old. If you want a new photo, ask the DMV clerk when you submit your request. Some states charge an extra fee for a new photo.

How much does a replacement licence cost?

Costs vary by state, typically between $20 and $75. Some states charge more if your licence was stolen versus lost. Check your state's DMV website or call your local office for the exact fee, as it may also depend on how long your licence is valid.

What if my replacement licence arrives damaged or with errors?

Contact your DMV when ready with your confirmation number and a photo of the damage or error. Most states will reissue the licence at no charge. Mail the damaged licence back to the address they provide, and they will send a corrected one.