How to Replace a Stolen California Driver's License

Get a replacement license by visiting the DMV in person with proof of identity and a theft report

If your California driver's license was stolen, you need to report it to the DMV and request a replacement. The DMV will issue you a new license with a different number. You must visit a DMV office in person — you cannot do this entirely by mail or online, though you can start the process online to skip some of the wait.

The fastest route is to bring your theft report, a valid form of ID, and proof of your current address to your local DMV office. The whole visit usually takes 30 to 60 minutes once you are called. Your replacement license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days, and you can request a temporary paper license to use while you wait.

Key Takeaways

File a police report for the stolen license before you go to the DMV — the DMV will ask for the report number.
Bring your police report, a valid ID (passport, military ID, or other government-issued document), and proof of your address to the DMV office.
You can make a DMV appointment online at dmv.ca.gov to reduce your wait time, though walk-ins are also accepted.
Request a temporary paper license at the DMV so you have proof of identity while your replacement card is being mailed.
Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days and will have a different number than your stolen license.

File a police report first

Before you go to the DMV, file a report with your local police department or sheriff's office. You can file in person at the station, or many departments allow you to file online through their website. When you file, tell them your license was stolen and ask for a report number — you will need this number at the DMV.

If you do not have a report number yet, some DMV offices will accept a police report case number or a written statement from you describing the theft. Call your local DMV office before you go to ask what they will accept in your situation.

Gather the documents you need

Bring these items to the DMV:

Your police report or report number
A valid form of ID (U.S. passport, military ID, passport card, or another government-issued ID with your photo)
Proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days)
Your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number

If you do not have a valid ID other than your stolen driver's license, bring two documents that prove your identity instead — these can include a birth certificate, Social Security card, or school ID. Ask your local DMV office what combination they will accept.

Make a DMV appointment or go in person

Visit dmv.ca.gov and select "Make an Appointment" to book a time slot at your nearest DMV office. You can usually find an appointment within a few days. When you book, select "Replace a Lost or Stolen Driver License" as your reason.

If you prefer not to make an appointment, you can walk into any DMV office during business hours. Walk-in wait times vary by location and time of day — offices are usually less crowded early in the morning or on weekday afternoons. Check the DMV website for your local office's hours before you go.

Complete the replacement at the DMV

When you arrive, check in at the front desk and give them your documents. A DMV representative will ask you to fill out Form DL 44 (process for California Driver License) or Form DL 43 (process to Replace a Lost or Stolen Driver License). The form takes about 5 minutes and asks for your personal information, address, and driving history.

You will have your photo taken and pay the replacement fee. As of 2024, a replacement license costs $39 if your current license is not expiring soon, or $56 if it is expiring within the next year. Fees may vary, so confirm the current cost when you call or visit.

Ask the DMV representative for a temporary paper license (also called an interim license). This is a printed document you can use as proof of identity while your replacement card is in the mail. The paper license is valid for 60 days.

Track your new license and report the theft to other agencies

Your replacement license will be mailed to the address you provided at the DMV within 7 to 10 business days. If you do not receive it after two weeks, call the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 to check the status.

While you wait, contact your bank, credit card companies, and any other financial institutions to let them know your license was stolen. If you are concerned about identity theft, you can place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). This makes it harder for someone to open accounts in your name.

What to do if you cannot visit the DMV in person

If you are unable to visit a DMV office, you have limited options. Some DMV services can be completed by mail, but a stolen license replacement is not one of them — California law requires you to appear in person for a replacement license.

If you are homebound or have a medical condition that prevents you from visiting the DMV, call 1-800-777-0133 and ask about a home visit appointment. The DMV offers this service in some cases, though availability varies by county and you may need to provide medical documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with just the police report while I wait for my replacement license?

No. You need either your original license, the temporary paper license the DMV gives you, or a valid form of ID to drive legally. That is why requesting the temporary paper license at the DMV is important — it is valid for 60 days and counts as proof of your license status.

What if I do not have a police report yet?

Call your local police department and file a report. Many departments let you file online or by phone. Once you have a report number, you can take it to the DMV. If you have not filed yet, some DMV offices will accept a written statement from you instead, but calling ahead to confirm is safer.

Will my new license have the same number as my stolen one?

No. Your replacement license will have a completely different number. This is a security measure to prevent someone from using your stolen license number. Update your new license number with your employer, insurance company, and any other organizations that have your license on file.

How much does a replacement license cost?

A replacement license costs $39 if your current license is not expiring within the next year, or $56 if it expires sooner. Fees may change, so confirm the current cost when you contact the DMV or visit in person. Payment methods include cash, check, debit card, and credit card.

What if someone uses my stolen license before I report it?

Report the theft to the police when ready if you have not already. If someone has used your license fraudulently, the police report creates an official record. You can also contact the DMV directly at 1-800-777-0133 to report the theft and ask them to flag your license number in their system.

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.