You can replace your driver's license at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, either in person or online depending on your state

Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) — sometimes called the Secretary of State's office or Division of Motor Vehicles — is the only place that issues replacement driver's licenses. Most states let you request a replacement online through their website, by mail, or in person at a local DMV office. A few states require you to appear in person. The fastest route is usually online if your state offers it, since you can submit everything from home and the new license arrives by mail in one to two weeks.

Before you contact your DMV, know what you're replacing the license for. If your license was lost or stolen, the process is the same as if it was damaged or expired. If your name has changed since you got your current license, you'll need to bring proof of the name change (marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree). If you're replacing a license because it's damaged but still valid, some states charge a smaller fee than a standard renewal.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's DMV website will tell you whether you can order a replacement online, by mail, or must visit in person.
  • You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and proof of your current address to request a replacement.
  • A replacement license costs between $15 and $50 depending on your state, and usually arrives within one to three weeks.
  • If your license was stolen, report it to your local police department first — some states require a police report number to process the replacement.

Finding your state's DMV website and replacement options

Start by searching "[your state] DMV driver's license replacement" or "[your state] Secretary of State driver's license." The official DMV website will have a section for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses. Each state's process is different: some let you order online when ready, some require you to mail in a form, and some require an in-person visit to an office.

If you cannot find the website or are unsure which office to visit, call your state's DMV main line. The number is listed on the official state website — not on a third-party site. When you call, tell them your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, and ask whether you can request a replacement by mail or online. They will also tell you the current fee and how long delivery takes in your state right now.

What documents and information you'll need

Have these items ready before you start the replacement process: your current driver's license number (or your date of birth and full name if you don't have it), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and address on it.

If your license was stolen, you may need a police report number. Some states ask for it; others do not. If you're unsure, call your DMV before you file a police report — you don't want to file a report you don't need. If your name has changed, bring the document that proves it: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you're replacing a license because it's damaged, you may need to send in the damaged license itself, depending on your state.

Ordering a replacement online

If your state offers online replacement, go to the DMV website and look for a link that says "Replace Lost or Stolen License," "Duplicate License," or "Order a Replacement License." You'll enter your license number, Social Security number, date of birth, and current address. The site will ask you to choose a delivery address — this is usually your current address, but you can have it sent somewhere else if needed.

You'll pay the replacement fee using a credit or debit card. Most states charge between $15 and $50 for a replacement. After you submit, you'll receive a confirmation number. Write it down or take a screenshot. Your new license will arrive by mail in one to three weeks, depending on your state. If it doesn't arrive within the timeframe your state gave you, use your confirmation number to contact the DMV and ask for a status update.

Requesting a replacement by mail

If your state requires a mailed process, read the form from the DMV website or call to have one sent to you. Fill out the form completely — use black or blue ink and print clearly. Include your current license number, Social Security number, and date of birth. Attach a copy of your proof of address (a utility bill or bank statement works). If your license was stolen, include a copy of the police report.

Mail the form and documents to the address listed on the form, not to a general DMV office address. Include a check or money order for the replacement fee — do not send cash. Keep a copy of everything you send. Mail delivery takes three to five business days, and the DMV usually processes the form within one to two weeks after receiving it. Your new license will then be mailed to you, so the total time is typically three to four weeks from when you mail the form.

Visiting a DMV office in person

If your state requires an in-person visit or you prefer to handle it face-to-face, find your nearest DMV office on your state's website. Some states let you book an appointment online; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. If appointments are available, book one — it usually cuts your wait time from one to two hours down to 15 to 30 minutes.

Bring your current license, proof of address, and your Social Security number. If your license was stolen, bring the police report. If your name has changed, bring the document that proves it. Tell the staff member at the counter that you need a replacement. They will take a new photo (unless your state allows you to keep your current photo), verify your information, collect the fee, and give you a receipt. Your new license will arrive by mail in one to three weeks.

What to do if your license was stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost, report it to your local police department. You don't need to file a full report — call the non-emergency line and tell them your driver's license was stolen. They will give you a report number. Some states require this number to process a replacement; others don't. When you contact your DMV, mention that it was stolen and provide the report number if you have one.

Reporting the theft also protects you if someone tries to use your license fraudulently. Keep the police report number for your records. If you notice suspicious activity on your credit report or receive bills for things you didn't buy, you can reference the police report when you dispute the charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive while I wait for my replacement license to arrive?

That depends on your state. Some states issue a temporary paper license or digital license that you can use when ready. Others do not. When you request your replacement, ask whether you'll receive a temporary license. If not, avoid driving until your new license arrives, since you cannot legally drive without a valid license.

What if I need my license before the standard delivery time?

Some states offer expedited shipping for an extra fee, usually $10 to $25. Ask your DMV whether this option is available. If it is, you can usually request it when you order online or in person. Expedited licenses typically arrive within five to seven business days instead of two to three weeks.

Do I have to get a new photo, or can I keep my current one?

Most states let you keep your current photo if you're ordering online or by mail. If you visit in person, the DMV will take a new photo unless your state specifically allows you to request your old photo. Ask when you contact the DMV — some states charge less if you keep your current photo.

What if my replacement license arrives with the wrong information on it?

Contact your DMV when ready with your confirmation number and the error you found. Most states will reissue the license at no charge if there's a mistake on their end. Bring the incorrect license to a DMV office or mail it back, depending on what your state asks. The corrected license usually arrives within one to two weeks.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. Driver's licenses are mailed directly to the address you provided when you ordered the replacement. You cannot pick it up at a DMV office. If you're moving before your license arrives, contact your DMV with your new address and ask them to update it before the license ships.