How to Get a New Driver's License

Where to explore for a new license and what to bring

You get a new driver's license from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), or whatever your state calls it — some states use the Secretary of State's office or a Transportation Department. You cannot order one by mail or online in most states; you must visit a physical office in person. A few states now offer limited online renewal for people whose licenses are still valid, but if you need a new license (not a renewal), you will go to a local DMV office.

Bring your current license if you have one, even if it is expired. Bring proof of your Social Security number — a Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return all work. Bring proof of your current address: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Bring your birth certificate or passport. Some states also require proof that you passed a vision test within a certain time frame, so call your local DMV office before you go to ask what they need.

The exact documents vary by state. Your state's DMV website lists what counts as proof of address, proof of identity, and proof of Social Security number. If you are unsure whether a document will work, call the office where you plan to go — they can tell you yes or no before you make the trip.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a DMV office in person to get a new license; most states do not offer online issuance for new licenses.
Bring your current license, birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address.
The required documents vary by state, so check your state DMV website or call your local office before you go.
You will take a new photo, pass a vision test, and pay a fee that ranges from roughly $20 to $100 depending on your state and license type.
Processing time is usually same-day for a temporary paper license, but the plastic card arrives by mail in one to three weeks.

What happens during your visit

When you arrive at the DMV, you will check in and wait for your number to be called. Bring all your documents. A staff member will review them, ask you to sign a form confirming your address and other details, and take a new photo of you. You will then take a vision test — you read letters on a chart from a set distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them to the test.

After the vision test, you will pay the fee. The cost depends on your state and how long the license is valid for — most new licenses are valid for four to eight years. You will receive a temporary paper license that is valid when ready, and the plastic card will be mailed to your address within one to three weeks. Do not throw away the paper license until you receive the plastic one.

When you need a new photo or a corrected license

If your current license has a photo you do not want to keep, you can request a new photo when you renew or replace your license. Some states charge a small extra fee for a new photo; others do not. Ask when you arrive at the DMV.

If your license has an error on it — a misspelled name, wrong address, or wrong birth date — you can correct it at the DMV. Bring documents that prove the correct information: a birth certificate for a birth date error, a marriage certificate for a name change, or a utility bill for an address error. The correction is usually free, but the DMV may issue you a new license with a new expiration date, which could mean paying a renewal fee.

Getting a license in a new state

If you have moved to a new state, you can transfer your license or get a new one from your new state. Most states require you to get a new license within 30 to 60 days of moving, though the rule is not always enforced. You will visit the DMV in your new state and bring your old license plus the same documents you would need for any new license: proof of address, birth certificate or passport, and proof of Social Security number.

Your new state will issue you a new license with that state's format and expiration date. Your old license becomes invalid once you receive the new one. Some states will let you keep your old license as a form of ID, but you cannot drive with it.

Replacing a lost or stolen license

If your license is lost or stolen, report it to your state DMV as soon as you can. Many states let you report a lost or stolen license online through their DMV website. You will then visit a DMV office to get a replacement. Bring the same documents you would need for a new license — proof of address, birth certificate or passport, and proof of Social Security number. You do not need to bring the original license since it is lost.

The replacement process is the same as getting a new license: you will have your photo taken, pass a vision test, and pay a fee. The fee for a replacement is usually the same as for a new license, though some states charge less. You will receive a temporary paper license and the plastic card by mail within one to three weeks.

Renewing versus replacing your license

A renewal extends the expiration date on your current license without changing the photo or most of the information. A replacement means you get a new license with a new photo, new expiration date, and a new license number. You need a replacement if your license is lost, stolen, damaged, or if you want a new photo. You need a renewal if your license is still valid but expiring soon.

Many states now let you renew online or by mail if your license is still valid and you have not had any changes to your address or name. But if you need a replacement — because your license is damaged, lost, or you want a new photo — you must visit the DMV in person. Check your state DMV website to see whether you can renew by mail or online, or whether you must visit an office.

Fees and processing times by state

The cost of a new license varies widely. Most states charge between $20 and $100 for a new license, depending on how long it is valid for and whether you are getting a standard or enhanced license. An enhanced license costs more but can be used for some forms of travel, like crossing into Canada by car. Check your state DMV website for the exact fee.

Processing time is usually same-day for the temporary paper license. The plastic card arrives by mail in one to three weeks in most states, though some states take longer during busy periods. If you need your license urgently, some DMV offices offer expedited processing for an extra fee, but this is not available everywhere. Call your local office to ask whether they offer it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with my temporary paper license?

Yes. The temporary paper license is valid when ready and counts as proof of your right to drive. Keep it with you while you wait for the plastic card. Once the plastic card arrives, the paper license is no longer valid, so do not carry both.

What if I fail the vision test?

If you cannot read the chart clearly, tell the staff member before the test. If you fail, you will not receive a license. You can return after you have had your eyes checked by an optometrist or ophthalmologist and obtained a corrective lens prescription if needed. Some states require you to bring a signed form from your eye doctor confirming you can see well enough to drive.

Do I need to take a written test or driving test to get a new license?

No. A new license based on an existing valid license does not require a written or driving test. You only take a vision test. If your old license was suspended or revoked, you may need to retake the written and driving tests, depending on your state's rules.

What if my address changes after I get my new license?

You can update your address at the DMV without getting a new license. Most states let you change your address online, by mail, or in person. You will not receive a new plastic card unless you request one, but your DMV record will be updated. Check your state DMV website for the fastest way to update your address.

Can I get a license if I do not have a birth certificate?

A passport works as proof of identity and citizenship in place of a birth certificate. If you do not have either, you can get a certified copy of your birth certificate from your state's vital records office, usually for a small fee. The DMV staff can tell you where to request one in your state.

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.