How to Replace a Lost Driver's License in Missouri

Get a replacement license at your local Missouri Department of Revenue office

You can replace a lost Missouri driver's license in person at any Missouri Department of Revenue office. Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days), and a form of ID—a passport, military ID, or birth certificate works. You'll pay a fee, take a new photo, and walk out with a temporary license the same day. Your permanent license arrives by mail in about two weeks.

If you cannot get to an office in person, Missouri does not offer online or mail-in replacement for lost licenses. You must appear in person. The state does offer a limited online service for renewing an unexpired license, but replacement of a lost or stolen license requires a visit.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a Missouri Department of Revenue office in person with your Social Security number and proof of residency to replace a lost license.
Acceptable ID includes a passport, military ID, birth certificate, or state ID card—you need at least one form of government-issued identification.
The replacement fee is $11.50 for a standard license, and you receive a temporary paper license when ready and a permanent card by mail within two weeks.
If your license was stolen rather than lost, you can report it to the Missouri State Highway Patrol for a case number, which some offices may request.

What documents and ID you need to bring

Missouri requires three things at the counter: your Social Security number (written down or memorized), proof of residency, and a form of ID. Proof of residency must be dated within the last 60 days and can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name. A cell phone bill counts if it shows your address.

For ID, bring one of these: a valid U.S. passport, military ID, birth certificate, Social Security card, or an existing Missouri state ID card. If you have none of these, Missouri allows a combination of documents—ask the office staff what secondary documents they accept, as the rules vary slightly by location. Bring originals, not copies.

Finding your nearest Department of Revenue office and hours

Missouri has 16 full-service Department of Revenue offices across the state, plus several satellite locations. The main office is in Jefferson City, but most people use their local regional office. Visit the Missouri Department of Revenue website and use their office locator tool to find the one nearest you, along with current hours.

Hours vary by location—some offices close for lunch, and many close by 5 p.m. A few locations have extended evening hours one or two days per week. Call ahead before you go, especially if you are traveling more than 30 minutes, because staffing changes can affect wait times and hours. During the first week of the month, offices are typically busier.

The fee and what you receive

A replacement driver's license costs $11.50 in Missouri. You pay this fee at the counter when you submit your documents. The office will take a new photo for your license at that time—you cannot use a photo from your old license. Wear something you are comfortable being photographed in.

You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days before you leave the office. This temporary license works for driving, employment, and age verification. Your permanent plastic license card is mailed to the address on file and typically arrives within 10 to 14 business days. If it does not arrive within three weeks, contact the office where you applied.

If your license was stolen instead of lost

If someone stole your license rather than you straightforward losing it, you can file a report with the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Call the non-emergency line for your local patrol troop or visit a troop office in person. They will give you a case number. Bring this case number to the Department of Revenue office—some staff will note it in your file, though it does not change the replacement process or fee.

Filing a theft report is optional but recommended if you are concerned about identity theft. The report creates a record in case your license number is used fraudulently. You can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them.

What happens if you need your license before the permanent one arrives

Your temporary paper license is valid for 45 days and works everywhere a regular license does—driving, employment verification, and age checks. If you need to renew your license before the permanent card arrives, you can do so using the temporary license as your ID.

If your permanent license does not arrive after three weeks, contact the Department of Revenue office where you applied. Provide your name, date of birth, and the date you applied. They can check the status and reissue if necessary. Reissuing a lost permanent license in the mail takes another 10 to 14 days.

Renewing versus replacing: which one you need

A replacement is what you need if your license is lost, stolen, or damaged. A renewal is what you need if your license is still valid but expiring soon. Missouri driver's licenses are valid for six years. If your license is still in your possession and not expired, you can renew online through the Missouri Department of Revenue website without visiting an office.

If you are replacing a lost license and it is also expired or expiring within 60 days, you can handle both at once during your office visit. The fee remains $11.50. The new license will have a fresh six-year expiration date from the date you explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license the same day?

You receive a temporary paper license the same day you visit the office, valid for 45 days. Your permanent plastic card is mailed and arrives in 10 to 14 business days. There is no option for same-day permanent license pickup in Missouri.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You must provide your Social Security number to get a Missouri driver's license. If you do not have one, you will need to obtain one from the Social Security Administration before you can replace your license. Contact your local Social Security office or visit ssa.gov.

Do I need an appointment to replace my license?

Most Missouri Department of Revenue offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis and do not require appointments. However, some locations now offer online appointment scheduling. Check your local office's website or call ahead to see if appointments are available in your area.

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

Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days) to the office. The staff will update your address during the replacement process. Your new license will show your current address.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. You must appear in person at the Department of Revenue office to explore for a replacement license. Missouri does not allow proxy applications or pickups for lost license 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.