Where to replace your Texas driver's license

You can replace your Texas driver's license at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. The DPS maintains over 250 locations across the state, including full-service driver license offices in most cities and smaller service centers in rural areas. You can find the office nearest you on the DPS website by entering your zip code.

Some counties also offer limited replacement services through county tax assessor-collector offices, though these locations typically handle renewals and address changes rather than full replacements. If you need a replacement quickly, a full-service DPS office is your most reliable option because they can process the transaction the same day you visit.

You also have the option to renew or replace your license by mail if your license is not suspended, revoked, or expired for more than two years. Mail-in replacement takes longer — typically two to three weeks — but eliminates the need to visit an office in person.

Key Takeaways

  • You can replace your Texas driver's license at any full-service DPS office, and you can find the nearest location on the DPS website by zip code.
  • Bring your current license or an acceptable form of ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or a document showing it.
  • Replacement fees vary depending on whether you need a standard license, a Real ID, or a commercial driver's license, and DPS accepts cash, check, and card.
  • If your license was lost or stolen, you should report it to DPS at the time of replacement to prevent misuse.
  • Mail-in replacement is available if your license is not suspended or expired for more than two years, but takes two to three weeks.

Documents you need to bring

Bring your current driver's license if you still have it. If your license was lost or stolen, bring an acceptable form of ID instead — this can be a passport, military ID, state ID card, tribal ID, or a document issued by a U.S. government agency that includes your photo and signature.

You will also need proof of residency. DPS accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, or government mail addressed to you at your current address. The document must be dated within the last 90 days. If you have recently moved and do not yet have a document in your new name and address, bring a lease or mortgage agreement along with a recent utility bill in either your name or your landlord's or spouse's name.

Bring your Social Security number or a document that shows it — a Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form all work. If you do not have your Social Security number, you can bring a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers instead.

Replacement fees and payment methods

The cost of replacement depends on the type of license you need. A standard five-year driver's license costs $25. A Real ID-compliant license (required for federal building access and domestic air travel as of May 2025) costs $40. A commercial driver's license replacement costs more and varies by class.

DPS accepts cash, personal checks, and debit or credit cards at all full-service offices. Some smaller service centers may accept only cash or check, so call ahead if you plan to pay by card. If you are replacing your license by mail, you must include a check or money order — DPS does not accept card payments for mail-in transactions.

What to do if your license was lost or stolen

Report the loss or theft to DPS when you come in for replacement. The DPS officer can flag your license number in the system to prevent someone else from using it. This step is important because a lost or stolen license can be used to open accounts, rent vehicles, or commit fraud in your name.

You do not need to file a police report before replacing your license, though you may want to do so if you suspect fraud or identity theft. If your license was stolen along with other documents or if you believe someone may have used it, consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) or freezing your credit.

Processing time and what happens next

If you replace your license in person at a DPS office, you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days under normal circumstances. During periods of high volume, processing can take up to two weeks.

The temporary license is valid for driving and identification purposes while you wait for your permanent card. Keep it with you until your new license arrives. If your permanent license does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DPS to check the status of your order.

If you replace your license by mail, you will not receive a temporary license. Mail-in replacement typically takes two to three weeks from the date DPS receives your process. You should not drive during this period unless you have another valid form of ID.

Real ID versus standard license

A Real ID is a driver's license that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID or another acceptable form of federal ID (such as a passport) to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building.

The Real ID costs $15 more than a standard license ($40 instead of $25). To get a Real ID, you must provide the same documents as a standard replacement, plus proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency — a passport, birth certificate, naturalization papers, or permanent resident card all work. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you can still get a standard driver's license, but you will not be able to use it for federal purposes after May 2025.

If you already have a Real ID and are replacing it, your new license will automatically be Real ID-compliant. You do not need to request it separately.

Replacing your license online or by phone

Texas does not allow you to replace a lost or stolen driver's license entirely online or by phone. You must visit a DPS office or mail in your process. However, you can use the DPS website to schedule an appointment at a full-service office, which can reduce your wait time.

If you are renewing your license (not replacing it due to loss or theft), you may be able to renew online if your license is not suspended, revoked, or expired for more than two years. Renewal online costs $25 and takes about two weeks. Check the DPS website to see if you are may be able to access for online renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. You cannot replace a suspended or revoked license until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact DPS or the court that issued the suspension to find out how to restore your driving privileges. Once the suspension is removed, you can then replace your license.

What if I do not have proof of residency in my name?

You can bring a lease or mortgage agreement in your name along with a recent utility bill in your spouse's or landlord's name at the same address. Some DPS offices will also accept an affidavit of residency signed by a property owner or manager if you cannot provide other documents. Call your local DPS office to ask what they accept.

How long is a replacement license valid?

A standard Texas driver's license is valid for five years from the date of issue. A Real ID is also valid for five years. If you are over 85 years old, your license is valid for two years. Check your license to see the expiration date.

Can I replace my license if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, if you have a valid visa or work permit. You will need to bring your passport and visa or work authorization document along with the other required documents. Your license will be marked as a standard license, not a Real ID, and will expire when your work authorization expires or in five years, whichever comes first.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring a document showing your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. DPS will issue a new license with your current legal name. This counts as a replacement, not a renewal, so you will pay the replacement fee.