How to Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Texas Driver's License

Where to go and what to bring

You replace a Texas driver's license at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver License office. There are about 130 of these offices across the state — you can find the one nearest you on the DPS website by entering your zip code. You do not need an appointment at most locations, though some offices now offer online scheduling to reduce wait times.

Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and one form of identification. If your license was lost or stolen, bring a police report if you have one — it is not required, but it speeds the process. If your license was damaged, bring the damaged card itself.

The replacement fee is $16 for a standard five-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. You can pay by cash, check, or card at the office. Some DPS locations also accept payment online before you arrive.

Key Takeaways

Texas DPS Driver License offices handle replacements, and you can find your nearest location on the DPS website by zip code.
Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency dated within 90 days, and one form of ID; a police report helps if your license was stolen.
The replacement fee is $16 for a five-year license or $32 for an eight-year license, payable by cash, check, or card.
You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot and your new plastic card by mail within 7 to 10 business days in most cases.
If you cannot visit an office in person, you may be able to use the online renewal system if your license is not expired by more than two years.

Temporary license and timeline for your new card

When you complete your replacement at a DPS office, you receive a temporary paper license when ready. This temporary license is valid for driving and identification purposes while you wait for your new plastic card. Keep it with you until the new card arrives.

Your new plastic driver's license is mailed to the address on file and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. If you moved recently, update your address at the DPS office before you leave so the card goes to the right place. If your card does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DPS to check the status.

Online renewal if your license is not too old

If your license expired fewer than two years ago, you may be able to renew it online through the DPS website without visiting an office. This option does not explore if your license was lost, stolen, or damaged — online renewal is for standard expiration only. The online process takes about 10 minutes and costs $16.

To renew online, you need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method. You will receive your new card by mail within 7 to 10 business days. This route is faster than visiting an office if you are may be able to access, but it is not available to everyone — the system will tell you when ready whether you can use it.

What to do if you lost your license out of state

If you lost your Texas license while traveling outside Texas, you have two options. You can wait until you return to Texas and visit a DPS office in person, or you can contact the DPS by phone or mail to request a replacement. The phone number for DPS Driver License Services is 1-888-589-6900.

If you call, have your driver's license number and Social Security number ready. The DPS can mail you a replacement, though the process takes longer than an in-person visit — typically two to three weeks. You will still need to provide proof of residency and pay the replacement fee, which you can do by phone with a credit or debit card.

Replacing a license if your name or address changed

If your name changed since your license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — bring documentation of the change along with your other required documents. Acceptable documents include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DPS will issue a new license with your current name at no extra charge beyond the replacement fee.

If you only need to update your address without replacing the card itself, you can do that online through the DPS website or by mail. Address changes do not require a new card and are free. However, if your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you will get a new card anyway, so update your address at the same time you explore for the replacement.

What happens if you cannot find your Social Security number

Your Social Security number is required to replace a driver's license in Texas. If you do not have it memorized and cannot locate it, you can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration before you visit the DPS. The SSA office nearest you can issue a replacement card, usually within one to two weeks.

Alternatively, if you have a document that shows your Social Security number — a tax return, W-2, bank statement, or insurance card — bring that to the DPS office. The staff can verify your number from the document. If you have none of these, contact the DPS before you visit to ask what other proof they will accept.

Replacing a commercial driver's license or endorsement

If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) or a CDL with endorsements, the replacement process is more involved. You cannot renew a CDL online, and you must visit a DPS office in person. Bring the same documents as for a standard license replacement, plus your current CDL.

The DPS may require you to pass a medical examination and vision test for a CDL replacement, depending on your endorsement type and how long your current license has been in effect. The fee for a CDL replacement is the same as for a standard license ($16 or $32 depending on the term you choose). Ask the DPS office about medical requirements when you call or visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license by mail?

You can request a replacement by mail if you cannot visit an office in person, but the process is slower. Contact the DPS Driver License Services at 1-888-589-6900 or visit the DPS website to request a mail-in form. You will need to provide proof of residency and pay the fee by check or money order. Expect the process to take three to four weeks.

What if my replacement card arrives damaged or with errors?

If your new card is damaged when it arrives, return it to any DPS office with a brief explanation. The DPS will issue a corrected card at no charge. If the card has errors in your name, address, or other information, visit a DPS office with the card and proof of the correct information. Corrections are free.

Do I need to take a new photo for a replacement?

For a standard replacement due to loss, theft, or damage, the DPS uses your existing photo from your current or most recent license. You do not need a new photo unless your current photo is more than 10 years old or you request a new one. If you want a new photo, you can request it at the DPS office, though it may delay your card by a few days.

What if I was not a Texas resident when my license was issued?

If you now live in Texas but your license was issued in another state, you cannot replace it through the Texas DPS. You must explore for a new Texas license instead. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of Texas residency, and your Social Security number to a DPS office. The fee and timeline are the same as a replacement.

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.