Where to go and what you'll need

To replace your Washington driver's license, you visit a Department of Licensing (DOL) office in person. Washington does not issue replacements by mail or online. You will need to bring your current license (if you still have it), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works.

If your license was lost or stolen, bring a police report if you have one, though it is not required. If your license was damaged, bring what remains of it. The DOL office will take a new photo and issue a replacement card on the spot or mail it to you within 7 to 10 business days, depending on which service level you choose.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Department of Licensing office in person; there is no online or mail replacement option in Washington.
  • Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your address dated within 60 days.
  • A standard replacement takes 7 to 10 business days by mail; you can pay extra for a card issued the same day if you need it when ready.
  • The replacement fee is $20 for a standard card, or $35 if you want it the same day.

Finding your nearest DOL office

Washington has DOL offices in most counties. You can find the location nearest you on the Department of Licensing website by entering your city or ZIP code. Many offices operate by appointment only, especially after the pandemic, so check the website or call ahead before you go.

If you live in a rural area far from an office, some county sheriff's offices or vehicle licensing agents can process replacements on behalf of the DOL. Call your county sheriff's office to ask whether they offer this service. This can save you a long drive if you are far from the nearest DOL location.

What happens if you cannot find your Social Security number proof

If you do not have your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return, the DOL will accept other documents that show your number. These include a birth certificate with your number, a passport, military discharge papers (DD-214), or a letter from the Social Security Administration. If you have none of these, you can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration before you go to the DOL, though this adds time to the process.

Do not guess or leave the Social Security field blank on the DOL form. The office will not process your replacement without it. Plan ahead if you need to order a Social Security card — the Administration typically mails them within two weeks.

Same-day versus mail delivery

When you visit the DOL office, you will be asked whether you want your replacement card mailed to you or issued the same day. The same-day option costs $35 instead of $20, and you walk out with your new license in hand. The mail option costs $20 and takes 7 to 10 business days.

Choose same-day if you need to drive when ready or if your job requires a current license. Choose mail if you can wait and want to save $15. Either way, your old license becomes invalid the moment the new one is issued.

If your license was suspended or revoked

If your license was suspended or revoked — for unpaid traffic tickets, unpaid child support, or a DUI conviction, for example — the DOL will not issue a replacement until the suspension is lifted. You will need to resolve the underlying issue first. For a suspension related to unpaid tickets or fines, contact the court that issued the ticket. For child support, contact the Department of Social and Health Services. For a DUI-related suspension, contact the DOL directly to learn what steps you must take.

The DOL website has a tool where you can check whether your license is currently suspended or revoked before you make the trip to an office. This saves you from arriving unprepared and having to return home to resolve the issue.

Replacing a license that expired during suspension

If your license expired while it was suspended, you cannot straightforward renew it — you must replace it. The process is the same as a standard replacement, but you will also need to resolve the suspension before the DOL will issue the new card. Once the suspension is lifted, you can go to the DOL office and complete the replacement.

Bring the same documents you would for any replacement: your expired license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The DOL staff will verify that your suspension has been lifted before processing your replacement.

Cost and payment methods

A standard replacement costs $20. A same-day replacement costs $35. The DOL accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at all offices. Some offices also accept checks, but call ahead to confirm if you plan to pay by check.

If you are a senior (age 65 or older) or a person with a disability, you may be may have access to to a reduced fee. Ask the DOL staff when you arrive, and bring documentation of your age or disability status if you have it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license if I do not have my Social Security card?

Yes. Bring a W-2, tax return, birth certificate with your number, passport, military discharge papers, or a letter from the Social Security Administration instead. The DOL will not process your replacement without proof of your number, so bring one of these documents.

What if I moved and my address on my license is wrong?

A replacement gives you a new card with your current address, so you do not need a separate address change. Just bring proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the last 60 days) to the DOL office along with your other documents.

How long does a replacement take if I choose mail delivery?

The DOL mails replacement cards within 7 to 10 business days of your visit. You can track your card on the DOL website using your driver's license number. If it does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DOL office where you applied.

Can I replace my license online or by mail?

No. Washington requires you to visit a DOL office in person for a replacement. You cannot complete this process online or by mail.

What if I lost my license and do not have a police report?

You do not need a police report to replace a lost license. Bring your proof of Social Security number and proof of address, and tell the DOL staff that your license was lost. They will process the replacement the same way.