You can replace a lost Ontario driver's license through ServiceOntario in person or by mail

A lost driver's license in Ontario is replaced through ServiceOntario, which handles all license transactions for the province. You have two main routes: visit a ServiceOntario office in person (fastest, usually same-day or within days), or mail in your request with the required documents (slower, typically two to three weeks). Both routes cost the same and produce the same result — a new license mailed to your address.

The in-person route is faster because ServiceOntario can photograph you, verify your identity on the spot, and process the replacement when ready. The mail route works if you cannot reach an office, but it requires you to gather documents beforehand and wait for postal delivery both ways.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit any ServiceOntario office with proof of identity and proof of residence to replace your license in person; you will receive it by mail within days.
  • If you mail your request, you need a completed form (DL 44), two pieces of ID, proof of residence, and a recent photo, all sent to the address on the ServiceOntario website.
  • The replacement fee is the same whether you go in person or by mail, and covers a standard five-year or eight-year license depending on your age.
  • You can drive legally while waiting for your replacement if you have a receipt from ServiceOntario showing you requested a new license.
  • If your license was stolen rather than lost, you may want to report it to police first, though this is not required to replace it.

What documents you need to bring in person

For an in-person replacement at ServiceOntario, bring two pieces of identification that prove who you are. One must be a photo ID — a passport, birth certificate, or previous Ontario license all work. The second can be any government-issued ID, a bank statement, or a utility bill in your name.

You also need proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or property tax notice all count. The document must show your name and the address where you want the new license mailed. If you have moved recently and your ID does not match your current address, bring both the old document and a new one showing the change.

Bring the fee in cash, debit, or credit card — ServiceOntario accepts all three. The cost varies slightly by license type and expiry length, but as of 2024 a standard replacement runs between $50 and $80. Check the ServiceOntario website or call ahead to confirm the exact amount for your situation.

How to replace your license by mail

To replace your license by mail, start by downloading form DL 44 from the ServiceOntario website or picking one up at any ServiceOntario office. Fill in your name, date of birth, current address, and the reason for replacement (lost license). You do not need to explain how you lost it — "lost" is sufficient.

Gather the same documents you would bring in person: two pieces of ID (one with a photo), and proof of your current address. You also need a recent photograph, 4 by 6 centimetres, with a plain background. A passport photo or any recent colour photo works as long as it is clear and shows your face straight-on.

Mail the completed form, documents, photo, and a cheque or money order for the fee to the address listed on the ServiceOntario website. Include a self-addressed envelope if you want ServiceOntario to return your original documents. The processing time is typically two to three weeks from the day ServiceOntario receives your package, plus postal delivery time on both ends.

Finding a ServiceOntario office near you

ServiceOntario has offices in most towns and cities across Ontario. The easiest way to find one is to visit the ServiceOntario website and use the office locator tool — enter your postal code or city name and it will show you nearby locations, hours, and whether you need an appointment.

Some offices operate by appointment only, especially in smaller towns. If the locator shows your nearest office requires an appointment, you can book one online through the same website. Walk-in hours vary by location; some offices accept walk-ins all day, while others reserve certain hours for appointments only.

Call ahead if you are unsure whether your office takes walk-ins or if you want to confirm they have the documents you need in stock. The phone number appears in the office locator results.

What to do while you wait for your replacement

You can legally drive in Ontario while your replacement license is in the mail or being processed. If you went in person, ServiceOntario will give you a receipt showing you requested a new license — keep this receipt in your vehicle. If a police officer stops you, show the receipt along with any other ID you have. The receipt proves you have a valid license on order.

If you mailed your request, you do not have a receipt to carry. In this case, bring a copy of the form you mailed (DL 44) and your proof of residence. This shows you have taken steps to replace your license. Most officers will accept this, but it is less definitive than an in-person receipt.

If you need to drive frequently and cannot wait for the mail, the in-person route is worth the trip — you will have your receipt the same day and can drive with confidence when ready.

If your license was stolen instead of lost

A stolen license is replaced the same way as a lost one — through ServiceOntario with the same documents and fee. The difference is whether you want a police report on file. If you believe someone might use your license fraudulently (for example, to open accounts or get credit), filing a police report creates an official record and can help you if fraud does occur.

You do not need a police report to replace the license itself. But if you are concerned about identity theft, contact your local police non-emergency line and ask to file a report for a lost or stolen ID. Bring the report number with you when you go to ServiceOntario — it is not required, but it documents the theft in case you need it later.

After replacing your license, consider monitoring your credit report through Equifax or TransUnion to catch any fraudulent accounts early. Both companies offer free annual reports, and you can check them online.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement license?

In person, you receive a receipt the same day and your license arrives by mail within three to five business days. By mail, the entire process takes two to three weeks for ServiceOntario to process, plus postal delivery time — typically four to five weeks total from when you mail your package.

Can I get a temporary license while I wait?

ServiceOntario does not issue temporary licenses. Your receipt from an in-person visit is your proof of a valid license while you wait. If you mailed your request, bring a copy of the form and proof of residence if stopped by police.

What if I moved and my address changed since I got my license?

Bring both your old ID showing your previous address and a new document showing your current address. ServiceOntario will update your address on the replacement license at no extra cost. The new license will be mailed to your current address.

Do I need to report my lost license to police?

No, reporting to police is optional. You only need to do it if you are concerned about identity theft or fraud. If you do report it, bring the report number to ServiceOntario — it helps document the loss but is not required to process the replacement.

What if my photo on the old license is very old?

ServiceOntario will take a new photo when you visit in person. If you are mailing your request, you must include a recent photo with your package. The photo must be clear, show your face straight-on, and have a plain background.