Where to get a replacement Oregon driver's license

You can replace your Oregon driver's license at any DMV office in the state, or by mail if you meet certain conditions. The fastest route is an in-person visit to your local DMV, where you can walk out with a replacement the same day. If you cannot visit in person, you can request a replacement by mail, though the process takes longer and only works if your license is not expired by more than five years.

Oregon's DMV offices are located in most counties. You can find the office nearest you on the Oregon DMV website by entering your zip code. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead to ask about wait times can save you a trip during peak hours.

Key Takeaways

  • In-person replacement at a DMV office takes about 30 minutes and costs $50 for a standard five-year license or $100 for an eight-year license.
  • You must bring a valid form of identification, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current Oregon address.
  • Mail-in replacement is only available if your license expired fewer than five years ago, and takes two to three weeks.
  • If your license was lost or stolen, report it to the DMV when you request the replacement to prevent fraud.
  • You can renew online if your license is still valid and you have not had any address changes, but replacement (for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses) requires an in-person visit or mail request.

Documents you need to bring in person

Bring one document that proves your identity, one that proves your Social Security number, and one that proves your current address. These can be the same document or different ones — the DMV accepts a wide range of paperwork.

For identity, bring a passport, military ID, tribal ID, or an out-of-state driver's license. For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. For your address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name. All address documents must be dated within the last 60 days.

If you do not have these documents, the DMV has a list of alternative documents on its website. Bring whatever you have — the staff can tell you on the spot whether it will work.

The in-person replacement process

Walk into your local DMV office during business hours with your documents and your current license (if you still have it). Take a number at the entrance and wait to be called. When you reach the window, tell the staff member you need a replacement license.

The staff will verify your documents, take a new photo, and ask you to confirm your address and any other information on file. You will pay the fee at that time — $50 for a five-year license or $100 for an eight-year license. You can pay by cash, debit card, or credit card. Most offices issue the replacement on the spot, though a few may mail it to you within a few days.

If your current license is damaged or defaced but still readable, bring it with you. If it is lost or stolen, tell the staff so they can flag your old license number in the system and prevent someone else from using it.

Replacing your license by mail

Mail-in replacement is only available if your license expired fewer than five years ago. read the process for Replacement Driver License or Identification Card (Form 735-2) from the Oregon DMV website, fill it out, and mail it with copies of your identity document, Social Security proof, and address proof to the address listed on the form.

Include a check or money order for the replacement fee — $50 for a five-year license or $100 for an eight-year license. Do not send cash. The DMV will process your process and mail your new license to the address on file, which typically takes two to three weeks from the date they receive your envelope.

Keep a copy of everything you mail in case the DMV needs to contact you. If your license expired more than five years ago, you cannot use the mail-in route and must visit a DMV office in person.

What to do if your license was lost or stolen

Report the loss or theft to the DMV when you request your replacement. This prevents someone else from using your old license number to commit fraud. You do not need to file a police report first, though you can if you want to.

If your license was stolen along with other documents, consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). A fraud alert tells lenders to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. You can place an alert for free by contacting any one of the three bureaus, and they will notify the other two.

Replacing a damaged or defaced license

If your license is torn, water-damaged, faded, or otherwise unreadable, you can replace it the same way you would replace a lost license. Bring the damaged license with you to the DMV office, or include a photo of it with your mail-in process. The staff will take it out of circulation so it cannot be used.

If your license is still readable and you just want to update the photo or information, that is a renewal, not a replacement. Renewals have different requirements and fees, so tell the DMV staff which one you need when you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my replacement?

Yes. If you are replacing your license in person at a DMV office, most locations issue a temporary paper license on the spot that you can use while your permanent card is being made. Ask the staff member for one before you leave the window.

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

Most DMV offices issue your replacement the same day you explore, usually within 30 minutes to an hour depending on how busy the office is. A few offices may mail it to you within a few days instead. Call your local DMV ahead of time to find out which applies to your location.

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

Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days) when you go in person, and the staff will update it while they process your replacement. If you are mailing in your process, include the address proof with your other documents.

Do I need to take a new photo for my replacement?

Yes. The DMV takes a new photo every time you replace or renew your license. You cannot use a photo from your old license. Wear what you normally wear — there are no strict dress codes, but avoid hats, sunglasses, and heavy makeup that obscures your face.

Can I replace my license if it is suspended or revoked?

No. You must resolve the suspension or revocation first. Contact the Oregon DMV to find out why your license is suspended or revoked and what steps you need to take to clear it. Once it is cleared, you can replace the physical card.