You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Texas driver's license online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website, but only if your license is not expired by more than two years
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) lets you request a replacement license online without visiting a driver's license office, as long as your current license meets specific conditions. The online replacement process takes about 7 to 10 business days from the time DPS receives and processes your request. You'll need to pay the replacement fee using a credit or debit card, and your new license will be mailed to the address on file with DPS.
If your license expired more than two years ago, or if you need to change information on your license (name, address, or other details), you cannot use the online replacement process. You'll need to visit a DPS driver's license office in person instead. The same applies if your license was suspended or revoked.
Key Takeaways
- Online replacement works only for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses that are not expired by more than two years.
- You must have a valid email address and be able to pay the replacement fee by credit or debit card online.
- Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after DPS receives your request, and your new license arrives by mail.
- If your license is expired more than two years, suspended, revoked, or you need to change information, you must visit a DPS office in person.
- You can check the status of your replacement request on the DPS website using your confirmation number.
What you need before you start the online request
Before you begin the online replacement process on the DPS website, gather the following information: your current Texas driver's license number, your Social Security number, your date of birth, and the reason your license needs to be replaced (lost, stolen, or damaged). You'll also need a valid email address where DPS can send your confirmation and status updates.
Have a credit or debit card ready to pay the replacement fee. As of 2024, the standard replacement fee for a driver's license in Texas is $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. The fee amount depends on how long you want your new license to be valid. You cannot pay by cash, check, or money order through the online process.
Step-by-step: How to request a replacement online
Go to the Texas DPS website and locate the "Driver's License" section. Look for the option labeled "Order a Replacement License" or "Replace Your License Online." You'll be directed to a form where you enter your driver's license number, Social Security number, and date of birth. DPS uses this information to verify your identity and pull up your current license record.
On the next screen, select the reason your license needs to be replaced: lost, stolen, or damaged. Then choose the validity period for your new license (four years or eight years) and review the associated fee. Enter your email address and confirm the mailing address where you want your new license sent. If your address has changed since your last license was issued, you must visit a DPS office in person to update it before ordering online.
Review all the information you've entered for accuracy, then proceed to payment. Enter your credit or debit card details and complete the transaction. After payment is processed, DPS will send you a confirmation email with a confirmation number. Save this number — you'll use it to track the status of your replacement request.
How long it takes and what happens next
After DPS receives and processes your online request, your new license will be mailed within 7 to 10 business days. Mailing time varies depending on your location within Texas, so allow an additional 3 to 7 business days for delivery. In total, you should expect to receive your replacement license within 10 to 17 business days from the date you submit your request.
You can check the status of your replacement request at any time by visiting the DPS website and entering your confirmation number and driver's license number. The status page will tell you whether your request is being processed, has been mailed, or has been delivered. If you don't receive your license within the expected timeframe, contact the DPS Driver's License Division to report the issue.
When you cannot use the online replacement process
The online replacement option is not available if your Texas driver's license expired more than two years ago. In this case, you'll need to renew your license rather than replace it, which requires an in-person visit to a DPS driver's license office. You'll need to pass a vision test and may need to provide additional documentation depending on how long your license has been expired.
You also cannot replace your license online if it was suspended or revoked by DPS. If your license status is suspended or revoked, you must visit a driver's license office to resolve the suspension or revocation before you can obtain a replacement. Additionally, if you need to change your name, address, or other personal information on your license, the online replacement process will not allow you to make those changes — you must do so in person.
If your license was damaged but still readable and not expired by more than two years, you can use the online process. However, if the damage is so severe that DPS cannot verify your identity from the information on the license, you may be asked to visit an office in person.
In-person replacement at a DPS driver's license office
If you don't meet the requirements for online replacement, you'll need to visit a Texas DPS driver's license office. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate). If your license was stolen, bring a police report if you have one.
You can find the DPS driver's license office nearest you on the DPS website. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require you to schedule an appointment in advance. Check your local office's hours and policies before you go. Processing time at the office is usually 15 to 30 minutes, and you can receive a temporary paper license when ready while you wait for your permanent license to arrive by mail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license online if it's been expired for more than two years?
No. If your license expired more than two years ago, you must renew it in person at a DPS driver's license office. Online replacement is only for licenses that are not expired by more than two years. Bring your Social Security card, proof of residency, and proof of identity to the office.
What if my address changed since I got my current license?
You cannot change your address through the online replacement process. If your mailing address has changed, you must visit a DPS driver's license office in person to update it before you can obtain a replacement license. The replacement will be mailed to the address currently on file with DPS.
How do I track my replacement license after I order it online?
Use your confirmation number and driver's license number on the DPS website to check the status of your replacement request. The status page shows whether your request is being processed, has been mailed, or has been delivered. You can check this status at any time.
What if my license was suspended or revoked?
You cannot replace your license online if it was suspended or revoked. You must visit a DPS driver's license office in person to resolve the suspension or revocation first. Once that issue is cleared, you can then replace your license either online or in person.
Can I pay for my replacement license with something other than a credit or debit card?
No. The online replacement process only accepts credit or debit card payment. If you don't have a credit or debit card, you can visit a DPS driver's license office in person and pay by cash, check, or money order.