Get a replacement at your local Missouri Department of Revenue office
If you've lost your Missouri driver's license, you'll need to visit a Missouri Department of Revenue office in person to request a replacement. The state does not issue replacements by mail or online. You can find the office nearest you on the Department of Revenue website by entering your county or city.
Bring your Social Security number, date of birth, and proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. You'll also need to bring one form of identification, such as a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card. If you don't have any of these, call your local office before you go; they can tell you what alternatives they'll accept.
The replacement fee is $11.50 for a standard license. You'll pay at the counter when you submit your paperwork. The new license is usually mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days, though this can vary depending on how busy the office is.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Missouri Department of Revenue office in person — there is no online or mail option for replacements.
- Bring proof of your address (utility bill or lease dated within 60 days), one form of ID, and your Social Security number.
- The replacement fee is $11.50 and you pay when you submit your paperwork.
- Your new license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days in most cases.
- If you need to drive before the replacement arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at the office.
What to bring to the Department of Revenue office
Missouri requires specific documents to process a replacement. Bring your Social Security number written down or memorized, your date of birth, and proof of your current address. The address proof must be dated within the last 60 days — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. A credit card bill or insurance statement will not work.
You also need one form of identification. A U.S. passport, birth certificate, state ID card, or military ID are the most common options. If you have none of these, contact your local Department of Revenue office before you go — they maintain a list of alternative documents they will accept, and it varies slightly by location.
Bring your checkbook or debit card if you prefer to pay by check or card, though cash is also accepted. The $11.50 fee is non-refundable.
Getting a temporary license while you wait
When you visit the Department of Revenue office, you can request a temporary paper license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 45 days and allows you to drive while your replacement is in the mail. The temporary is printed at the office before you leave, so you'll have it when ready.
The temporary license is not an additional fee — it's included in the $11.50 replacement cost. You do not need to request it separately or fill out extra forms; straightforward ask the staff member helping you to print one when you submit your paperwork.
If your license was stolen or used fraudulently
If you believe your lost license was stolen or has been used fraudulently, contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol's non-emergency line or your local police department to file a report. You don't need to do this before you request a replacement, but having a report on file protects you if someone uses your license information.
When you visit the Department of Revenue office, mention that the license was stolen or potentially misused. The staff can note this in your file. If you're concerned about identity theft more broadly — for example, if your wallet was stolen along with your license — you may also want to place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) or monitor your credit report.
Replacing an out-of-state license in Missouri
If you've moved to Missouri and lost your out-of-state license, you'll need to get a Missouri license rather than a replacement for your old one. This requires a different process: you'll need to pass a vision test and written exam, and provide proof of residency in Missouri. Visit the Department of Revenue website to find the study guide for Missouri's written test.
Bring the same documents you would for a replacement (proof of address, one form of ID, Social Security number), plus your out-of-state license if you still have it. The fee for a new Missouri license is $11.50, the same as a replacement.
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 face a fine of up to $200 for a first offense, and the fine increases for repeat violations. This is why getting the temporary paper license at the Department of Revenue office is important — it's a valid form of identification while you wait for your replacement to arrive.
If you have a valid temporary license, show it to police if you're stopped. The temporary is recognized as a legal license for the 45-day period it's valid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I request a replacement online or by mail?
No. Missouri requires you to visit a Department of Revenue office in person. You cannot request a replacement through the mail or online. However, you can call ahead to confirm the office has the documents you plan to bring and to ask about wait times.
How long does it take to get a replacement license?
The replacement is mailed to your address and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. This timeline can be longer during busy periods. Once you request the replacement, you can use the temporary paper license to drive for 45 days while you wait.
What if I don't have proof of my current address?
Contact your local Department of Revenue office before you visit. They can tell you what documents they'll accept as proof of address. Some offices may accept alternative documents if you explain your situation. Having your Social Security number and one form of ID is essential, but address proof options may be more flexible than the standard list.
Do I have to pay the replacement fee if the license was lost due to someone else's fault?
Yes. Missouri charges the $11.50 replacement fee regardless of how the license was lost. The fee is not waived for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses. This is a standard state fee.
Can I get a replacement if my license is expired?
Yes. You can request a replacement for an expired license using the same process. When you visit the Department of Revenue office, you can also renew your license at the same time if it's expired or expiring soon. Ask the staff member about renewal options when you arrive.