Getting a replacement license in Missouri

You can replace a lost Missouri driver's license by visiting your local Missouri Department of Revenue office in person, bringing proof of identity and residency, and paying a replacement fee. The process takes about 15 minutes at the office, and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot while your permanent card is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

Missouri does not allow you to replace a lost license by mail or online, so an in-person visit is required. You cannot use a third-party service or expedited option to speed up the process — the standard timeline applies to everyone.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Missouri Department of Revenue office in person with valid proof of identity and proof of your current address.
  • The replacement fee is $11.50 for a standard four-year license or $24 for an eight-year license, paid at the time of your visit.
  • You receive a temporary paper license when ready and your permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
  • Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, because Missouri requires it to issue a replacement.

What documents you need to bring

Bring one document that proves your identity and one that proves your current address. For identity, the Department of Revenue accepts a passport, military ID, state ID card, or a certified birth certificate. If you bring a birth certificate, you'll also need a second form of ID — a Social Security card, bank statement, or utility bill works for this purpose.

For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and current Missouri address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you've recently moved and don't have a bill in your new name yet, a lease or mortgage document with your new address is acceptable.

You'll also need to provide your Social Security number. If you don't have your Social Security card with you, bring any document that displays it — a tax return, W-2, or bank statement will work.

Finding your nearest Department of Revenue office

Missouri has 43 Department of Revenue offices across the state. You can find the one closest to you by visiting the Missouri Secretary of State website and searching by county or city. Each office has its own hours, which vary — some are open Monday through Friday, while others have Saturday hours.

Call ahead before you go. Office wait times change throughout the day and week, and some offices get very busy in the afternoon or on Fridays. A quick phone call to confirm they have your documents on file and that they're not experiencing a backup can save you a wasted trip.

The replacement fee and payment methods

The fee for a replacement driver's license is $11.50 for a four-year license or $24 for an eight-year license. You choose which one you want when you arrive at the office. Most people choose the four-year option because it's cheaper, but the eight-year license lasts longer if you want to avoid another replacement visit in the future.

Missouri Department of Revenue offices accept cash, check, and debit or credit card. If you pay by check, write it to the Missouri Department of Revenue. Keep your receipt — it serves as proof that you've paid and helps if there's ever a question about your replacement order.

What happens after you leave the office

You'll receive a temporary paper license before you leave. This temporary license is valid for driving and is accepted by police, rental car companies, and other places that check ID. Keep it with you until your permanent card arrives.

Your permanent plastic license card is mailed to the address you provided at the office. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days, though it can occasionally take longer if there's a mail delay. If your permanent license doesn't arrive within two weeks, contact the Department of Revenue office where you applied and provide your receipt number.

If your license was lost outside Missouri

If you lost your Missouri license while traveling or living out of state, you still need to visit a Missouri Department of Revenue office to replace it. You cannot do this by mail or through an out-of-state office. If you're unable to return to Missouri soon, you can request a replacement when you're next in the state, or you can contact the Department of Revenue to ask about mailing options — though mailing is not the standard process and availability varies.

If you need to drive before you can return to Missouri, you may be able to obtain a temporary license from the state where you currently are, but that's a separate process and doesn't replace your Missouri license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or fine?

Yes. Missouri does not hold up license replacements for unpaid traffic fines or tickets. You can replace your lost license regardless of any outstanding traffic matters. However, if your license was suspended for a separate reason — such as unpaid child support or a DUI conviction — you cannot receive a replacement until the suspension is lifted.

What if I don't have proof of my current address?

You need a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and address. If you've just moved and don't have a utility bill yet, a lease agreement, mortgage statement, or even a recent bank statement with your new address will work. Contact your local Department of Revenue office to ask what documents they have on file for you before you visit.

How long is the temporary paper license good for?

The temporary paper license is valid for 45 days from the date it's issued. This gives you time to receive your permanent card by mail. If your permanent card hasn't arrived by day 45, contact the Department of Revenue office where you applied.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. You must explore for the replacement in person at a Missouri Department of Revenue office. However, once your permanent card arrives in the mail, anyone can open your mail and give it to you — the card itself doesn't require a signature to receive.

What if I lost my license and my wallet was stolen?

Bring your proof of identity and proof of address as listed above. If your wallet was stolen, you may not have these documents with you, so gather them before your office visit. A passport, birth certificate, or military ID can serve as identity, and a utility bill or lease can serve as proof of address — you don't need your old license to get a replacement.