Where to go and what to bring

You can replace your Texas driver license at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver license office. The office nearest you is listed on the DPS website by county, and most are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours. Some larger cities have multiple locations.

Bring your current license if you still have it, or a valid form of ID if it's lost or stolen. You'll also need proof of residency — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current Texas address, dated within the last 90 days. If your name has changed since your current license was issued, bring a document showing that change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

The replacement fee is $16 for a standard license. You can pay by cash, check, or card at most offices. Some offices accept online payment before you arrive, which can speed up your visit.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit any DPS driver license office in Texas with your current ID and proof of residency dated within 90 days.
  • The replacement fee is $16, and you can pay by cash, check, or card.
  • If your name has changed, bring a document proving the change, such as a marriage certificate.
  • Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If your license was stolen, you can request a new number at the office to prevent identity misuse.

Replacing a lost or stolen license

If your license is lost, you can still replace it at any DPS office using the same process as a regular replacement. Bring your proof of residency and another form of ID — a passport, military ID, or state ID card will work.

If your license was stolen, ask the DPS staff whether you want a new license number. Requesting a new number costs an additional $5 and takes a few extra days, but it prevents someone from using your old number for fraud. This is optional, but worth considering if you're concerned about identity theft.

What happens if your license is damaged or unreadable

Bring your damaged license to any DPS office along with your proof of residency. The staff will take your old license and issue a replacement using the same number. You don't need to explain what happened to it — the office processes damaged licenses as routine replacements.

If your license is so damaged that the number is unreadable, the DPS may issue you a new number. Ask the staff at your local office whether this applies to your situation before you go.

How long the replacement takes

Your new license will be mailed to the address on file with DPS within 7 to 10 business days. You should receive it in a plain envelope. If you need to drive before it arrives, ask the DPS office for a temporary paper license — they issue these on the spot at no extra cost, and it's valid for 45 days.

If you don't receive your license within two weeks, contact the DPS to check the status. Have your driver license number or date of birth ready when you call.

Replacing a license that expired during military service

If you were on active duty when your license expired, Texas allows you to renew it without the usual renewal fee. Bring your military discharge papers or a letter from your commanding officer showing your service dates, along with your expired license and proof of residency.

The DPS will issue a replacement at no cost. This applies only to licenses that expired while you were deployed, not to licenses that expired before or after your service.

Replacing a license with a different address

If you've moved since your current license was issued, you can update your address at the same time you replace it. Bring your proof of residency showing your new address — this serves both as proof of your new location and as your residency document for the replacement.

The new license will show your updated address. There's no additional fee for the address change; it's included in the $16 replacement cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license by mail or online?

No. Texas requires you to appear in person at a DPS office to replace your license. You cannot do this by mail or through the DPS website. However, some offices allow you to pay the fee online before you arrive, which can shorten your visit.

What if I don't have proof of residency?

You must bring a document showing your current address dated within the last 90 days. If you don't have one, contact your DPS office before you go — they can tell you what alternative documents they accept. Some offices will accept a combination of documents if you don't have a single utility bill or lease.

Do I need an appointment?

Most DPS offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but some locations in larger cities now offer appointment scheduling through the DPS website. Check your local office's page to see whether appointments are available in your area.

What if my name on my license doesn't match my current legal name?

Bring a document proving your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DPS will issue a new license with your current legal name. This counts as a replacement, not a renewal, so the fee is still $16.

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

Yes. Ask the DPS staff for a temporary paper license when you complete your replacement. It's issued on the spot at no extra cost and is valid for 45 days, which covers the time your new license is being mailed.