How to File a DL-14A Application for a California Driver's License

What a DL-14A process Does

A DL-14A is the official form you use to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged California driver's license without taking a new written test. You fill it out, submit it to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) along with proof of identity and residency, and the DMV issues you a replacement license with the same number and expiration date as your original. You do not need to retake the knowledge test or vision test unless the DMV specifically asks you to.

The form itself is short — it asks for your name, driver's license number, date of birth, and the reason your license needs replacing. The real work is gathering the documents the DMV requires before you submit. Most people complete the entire process in two to four weeks, though you can request a temporary license to drive while you wait.

Key Takeaways

A DL-14A replaces a lost, stolen, or damaged California driver's license without requiring you to retake any tests.
You will need to bring proof of identity (like a passport or birth certificate), proof of California residency (like a utility bill or lease), and your completed DL-14A form to the DMV.
You can submit your DL-14A in person at any DMV office, by mail, or through the DMV's online portal if you have a valid California ID number.
The DMV will mail your replacement license to the address on file, and you can request a temporary paper license to drive when ready if needed.
Replacement licenses cost between $30 and $40 depending on how many years remain on your original license.

When You Need a DL-14A Instead of a DL-44

California has two main replacement forms: DL-14A and DL-44. Use the DL-14A if you already have a valid California driver's license and it is lost, stolen, or damaged. Use the DL-44 if you are getting a California license for the first time, renewing an expired license, or changing your name or address.

The key difference is that DL-14A assumes you passed the written and vision tests already — the DMV has your records. With DL-44, you start from scratch and must pass both tests. If you are unsure which form you need, call the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 or check the DMV website before you go in.

Documents You Need to Bring

The DMV requires two categories of documents: proof of identity and proof of California residency. You do not need both a passport and a birth certificate — one strong identity document is usually enough.

For proof of identity, bring one of these:

U.S. passport or passport card
Birth certificate (certified copy, not a photocopy)
Consular report of birth abroad
Certificate of naturalization or citizenship
Permanent resident card (green card)
Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
Military ID or military dependent ID
Tribal ID (if issued by a federally recognized tribe)

For proof of California residency, bring one of these dated within the last 62 days:

Utility bill (electric, gas, water, or phone)
Lease or rental agreement
Mortgage statement or property tax bill
Bank or credit card statement
Pay stub from your employer
Government mail (tax return, voter registration, court documents)

Bring the originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work. If your residency document is older than 62 days, the DMV may reject it and ask you to come back with something current.

How to Fill Out the DL-14A Form

You can read the DL-14A from the DMV website or pick up a copy at any DMV office. The form has two pages and takes about five minutes to complete. Use black or blue ink and print clearly — the DMV scans these forms and poor handwriting can cause delays.

Fill in your full legal name exactly as it appears on your identity document. Enter your driver's license number (if you remember it) or leave it blank — the DMV can look it up. Write your date of birth in MM/DD/YYYY format. In the box labeled "Reason for Replacement," check the box that matches your situation: lost, stolen, or damaged.

Sign and date the form in the spaces provided. Do not sign it before you arrive at the DMV — some offices require you to sign in front of a staff member. If you are mailing it in, you can sign it at home, but verify the current DMV mailing address on their website first, as it varies by region.

Where and How to Submit Your DL-14A

You have three options: submit in person at a DMV office, mail it to your regional DMV processing center, or use the DMV's online system if you have a valid California ID number and a recent photo on file.

In-person submission is the fastest. Bring your completed DL-14A, identity document, residency proof, and payment (cash, check, or card). Most DMV offices accept walk-ins, but you can also schedule an appointment online to skip the line. Processing usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, and you can request a temporary paper license to drive while you wait for the permanent one to arrive by mail.

Mailing your process takes longer but works if you cannot get to an office. Include your completed DL-14A, copies of your identity and residency documents, and a check or money order for the replacement fee. Do not mail cash. Include a cover letter with your name, phone number, and the reason for replacement. Mail to the address listed on the DMV website for your county. Processing by mail typically takes three to four weeks from the date the DMV receives it.

Online submission through the DMV portal is available if you have a California ID number and a photo already on file with the DMV. Log into your DMV account, select "Replace License," and follow the prompts. You will still need to pay the fee and may be asked to verify your identity through additional steps. This route is fastest if you are may be able to access.

What Happens After You Submit

The DMV will mail your replacement license to the address on file within two to four weeks. Your new license will have the same number and expiration date as your original — you are not renewing, just replacing. If your address has changed since your last license, update it before you submit the DL-14A, or the license will arrive at the old address.

If you need to drive before the replacement arrives, request a temporary paper license at the DMV office when you submit your process. This temporary license is valid for 60 days and works for all driving purposes. If you submitted by mail, call the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 to ask whether they can issue a temporary license by mail or email.

If the DMV cannot find your original license record or has questions about your process, they will contact you by phone or mail. Respond promptly — delays in responding can slow down your replacement. If you do not hear back within four weeks, call the DMV to check the status of your process.

Cost and Payment Options

A replacement driver's license costs between $30 and $40, depending on how many years remain on your original license. The DMV charges a prorated fee based on the expiration date of your current license. If your license expires in one year, you pay less than if it expires in five years.

You can pay by cash, check, money order, or debit or credit card. If you submit in person, the DMV accepts all of these. If you mail your process, send a check or money order only — do not mail cash. If you submit online, you will pay by card during the checkout process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a temporary license to drive right away?

Yes, if you submit in person at a DMV office. Ask for a temporary paper license when you turn in your DL-14A — it is valid for 60 days and works for all driving purposes. If you mail your process, call the DMV to ask whether they can issue a temporary license by mail or email.

What if I do not remember my driver's license number?

Leave that field blank on the DL-14A. The DMV can look up your license number using your name, date of birth, and address. You do not need to provide it to get a replacement.

Do I have to retake the written or vision test?

No. A DL-14A replacement assumes you passed both tests already and your records are current. The DMV will only ask you to retake a test if there is a specific reason — for example, if your medical condition has changed or if your vision test is expired.

What if my address has changed since I got my current license?

Update your address before you submit the DL-14A. If you submit in person, tell the DMV staff and they will update it on the spot. If you mail your process, include a note with your new address. Your replacement license will be mailed to whatever address is on file when the DMV processes your request.

How long does it take to get my replacement license by mail?

The DMV typically processes mailed applications within three to four weeks from the date they receive it. Add another week for mail delivery time. If you need to drive sooner, submit in person and request a temporary paper license, or ask the DMV whether you can submit online.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.