Get a replacement driver's license from the Oregon DMV in person or by mail

Oregon replaces lost driver's licenses through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You can request a replacement in person at any DMV office, or by mail if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route is faster — usually same-day or within a few days — while the mail route takes two to three weeks. You will need to bring or send proof of identity and pay a replacement fee, which varies depending on how much time remains on your current license.

The process itself is straightforward: you tell the DMV your license is lost, provide identification, pay the fee, and receive a new license with the same number and information as your original. Oregon does not require you to retake the written or driving test for a replacement. Your new license will look identical to the one you lost, except for a new issue date.

Key Takeaways

  • You can replace a lost Oregon driver's license in person at any DMV office or by mail if your license is not suspended or revoked.
  • In-person replacement takes one to five business days and costs between $20 and $50 depending on your license expiration date.
  • Mail replacement takes two to three weeks and requires you to send a completed form, proof of identity, and payment to the DMV.
  • You will need either a passport, birth certificate, or other government-issued ID to prove your identity for a replacement.
  • Oregon allows you to request a replacement without retaking any tests, and your new license will have the same number as your lost one.

What documents and information you need to bring

For an in-person replacement, bring one form of government-issued photo identification. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, Social Security card, or military ID. If you do not have any of these, you can bring two non-photo documents instead, such as a utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement — both must show your current name and address.

You will also need to know your driver's license number if possible, though the DMV can look it up if you provide your name and date of birth. Bring your current address if it has changed since your license was issued. If you are replacing a license that expired more than five years ago, you may need to provide additional documentation or retake the written test — ask the DMV office when you call ahead.

Replacing your license in person at an Oregon DMV office

Find the DMV office nearest you on the Oregon DMV website. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours vary by location. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others require you to book an appointment online or by phone. Calling ahead saves time — the DMV phone line can tell you wait times and whether you need an appointment.

When you arrive, tell the staff member you need a replacement license due to loss. Bring your identification documents and be ready to pay the replacement fee. The fee depends on how long your license is valid: if it expires within one year, the cost is lower; if it expires in three to five years, the cost is higher. Ask the DMV staff for the exact fee when you arrive, as it may change. You will receive your new license on the spot or within a few business days if the office needs to mail it to you.

Replacing your license by mail

Mail replacement is an option if your license is not suspended, revoked, or expired for more than five years. read and complete the process for Replacement Driver License form (Form 735-2C) from the Oregon DMV website. Print it, sign it, and mail it along with your identification documents and payment to the address listed on the form.

Include a photocopy of one government-issued ID — do not send the original. Write a check or money order for the replacement fee and include it in the envelope. Mail everything to the Oregon DMV at the address on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the DMV receives your packet. Your new license will arrive by mail at the address you provided on the form.

The replacement fee and what affects the cost

Oregon's replacement fee ranges from $20 to $50, depending on how long your current license is valid. A license expiring within one year costs less to replace than one expiring in three to five years. The DMV charges more for longer validity because you are receiving a license that will be good for a longer period.

Payment methods vary by location. In-person at an office, you can usually pay with cash, debit, or credit card. By mail, you must send a check or money order — the DMV does not accept credit cards through the mail. If you are unsure of the exact fee for your situation, call the DMV office or check the Oregon DMV website, which lists current fees by license type and expiration date.

What to do if your license was stolen or used fraudulently

If you believe your lost license was stolen or has been used fraudulently, contact the Oregon DMV fraud unit before requesting a replacement. You can report suspected fraud by calling the DMV or visiting an office in person. The DMV can flag your account and may issue a replacement with a new license number instead of reissuing the same number.

You should also consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — if you are concerned about identity theft. A fraud alert notifies creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. This step is separate from replacing your driver's license but protects you from financial fraud that could result from a lost ID.

Temporary driving privileges while you wait for your replacement

Oregon does not issue a temporary paper license or permit while you wait for your replacement. However, if you need to drive before your new license arrives, you have options. If you replaced your license in person, you received your new license when ready or within a few days. If you applied by mail and need to drive sooner, you can visit a DMV office in person instead — this is faster than waiting for mail processing.

If you are stopped by police before your replacement arrives, explain that you have reported your license lost and are waiting for a replacement. Bring any documentation showing you applied — such as a receipt from the DMV office or a copy of your mailed process. Police can verify your driving status through their system, though you may still receive a citation for not carrying your license. To avoid this, prioritize getting your replacement as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license online?

Oregon does not offer online replacement for lost licenses. You must go in person to a DMV office or mail your process. The DMV website allows you to schedule an appointment at an office, which can speed up the in-person process.

What if my address has changed since I got my license?

Bring proof of your new address to the DMV office, such as a utility bill or lease. The DMV will update your address on your new license at no extra cost. If you are mailing your process, include a copy of your address proof with your other documents.

How long does a replacement license take if I go in person?

Most DMV offices issue your replacement license the same day or within one to five business days. Call your local office to ask about current processing times, as they vary by location and how busy the office is.

Do I need to retake the written or driving test to get a replacement?

No. Oregon allows you to replace a lost license without retaking any tests. You only need to provide identification and pay the fee. The only exception is if your license expired more than five years ago — then you may need to retake the written test.

What if I lost my license out of state?

You can still replace it through the Oregon DMV by mail or by visiting an office when you return to Oregon. If you need to drive before returning, contact the Oregon DMV to ask about temporary options or whether you can replace it remotely.