Where to go and what to bring

You replace a lost driver's license at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), though some states call it the Secretary of State or Department of Transportation. The exact name and location depend on which state issued your license. You can find your state's DMV office online by searching "[your state] DMV" — the official website will have a location finder and hours.

Before you go, gather these documents: a government-issued photo ID (passport, military ID, or state ID card), proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). Some states also require your birth certificate. Check your state's DMV website for the exact list, because requirements vary.

You do not need to bring the lost license itself — the DMV has a record of it. You will need to pay a replacement fee, which ranges from about $10 to $30 depending on your state. Most DMVs accept cash, debit, and credit cards, though a few still take cash only, so call ahead if you are unsure.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit your state's DMV office in person with a government photo ID, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address.
  • The replacement fee typically costs between $10 and $30, and varies by state.
  • You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot, and the plastic replacement arrives by mail in one to three weeks.
  • If you cannot visit in person, some states allow you to order a replacement online or by mail, though the process takes longer.
  • Report the loss to local police if you believe the license was stolen rather than straightforward lost, which may help protect you from identity theft.

What happens when you arrive at the DMV

Walk in with your documents and tell the staff you need to replace a lost license. They will ask you to fill out a form — usually called an process for Driver's License or Replacement License form — and verify your identity using the documents you brought. This takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

The DMV will take a new photo for your replacement license. You will then pay the fee. Before you leave, you will receive a temporary paper license that is valid when ready. This temporary license works for driving, getting on planes, and most other purposes while you wait for the plastic card to arrive. Keep it in your wallet.

Your permanent replacement license will be mailed to the address on file. Delivery typically takes one to three weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods. If you move before it arrives, contact the DMV to update your address so the license reaches you.

Replacing your license without visiting the DMV

Some states allow you to order a replacement license online through the DMV website. This option is usually available only if your license is not expired and you have not had multiple replacements in a short time. You will upload photos of your documents, pay the fee online, and receive your temporary license by email. The plastic card still arrives by mail.

A few states also accept replacement requests by mail. You send copies of your documents and a completed form to the DMV address listed on their website, along with a check or money order. This method is slower — expect four to six weeks for delivery — and you will not receive a temporary license, so you cannot drive during that time.

Check your state's DMV website to see which options are available to you. If online or mail replacement is not offered, you must visit in person.

If your license was stolen instead of lost

If you believe someone stole your license rather than it being lost, file a police report. You do not need to wait for the police to finish investigating — you can start the DMV replacement process when ready. Bring a copy of the police report number to the DMV, or mention the theft when you fill out the replacement form.

A police report protects you in two ways. First, it creates an official record that the license was stolen, which helps if someone tries to use it fraudulently. Second, it may trigger fraud alerts on your credit report, which makes it harder for someone to open accounts in your name. You can also contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) directly to request a fraud alert.

What to do while you wait for your replacement

Your temporary paper license is valid for driving and identification purposes, so you can use it when ready. Carry it with you the same way you would carry a plastic license. Some businesses and venues may be unfamiliar with temporary licenses, so be prepared to explain that it is a valid DMV-issued document.

If you need to travel by air before your permanent license arrives, the temporary license works for domestic flights. For international travel, use your passport instead. If you need to renew your vehicle registration or take a driving test during this period, the temporary license is acceptable.

If your permanent license does not arrive within the timeframe your state promised (usually three weeks), contact the DMV. Provide your temporary license number or the receipt from your replacement visit. The DMV can check the status and reissue if necessary.

Replacing your license if you have moved to a new state

If you lost your license and have since moved to a different state, you cannot straightforward replace it with your original state's DMV. You must get a license from your new state instead. Contact your new state's DMV and ask about their process for people who hold an out-of-state license.

You will typically need to surrender your old license (or provide proof it was lost), pass a vision test, and provide the same documents you would for a new resident: proof of residency in the new state, proof of Social Security number, and proof of identity. Some states waive the written driving test if your old license is still valid, but this varies. Check your new state's DMV website for specifics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with just the temporary paper license?

Yes. The temporary license is valid for driving, and law enforcement recognizes it. Carry it with you the same way you would a plastic license. Some businesses may question it because they are unfamiliar with the format, but it is a legitimate DMV document.

How much does a replacement license cost?

The fee ranges from about $10 to $30 depending on your state. Some states charge less for a replacement than for a new license. Check your state's DMV website for the exact amount, or call your local DMV office.

What if I lost my license and my Social Security card at the same time?

You can still replace your license. Bring an alternative proof of your Social Security number, such as a W-2, tax return, or bank statement showing your SSN. If you have none of these, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card first, which takes about two weeks.

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

No. A replacement for a lost license does not require any test. You only need to provide identification and proof of residency. Tests are required only when you renew an expired license or move to a new state.

What if my address changed since I lost my license?

Tell the DMV staff your new address when you explore for the replacement. Your temporary license will show the old address, but your permanent license will be mailed to the new address you provide. If you forget to update it at the DMV, contact them as soon as you realize the mistake so the license reaches you.