You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Texas driver's license 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) allows you to order a replacement license online at dps.texas.gov using their License Replacement service. The process takes about 10 minutes, costs $11, and you receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days. However, this online route works only if your current license expired within the last two years. If your license expired more than two years ago, or if you need to update information like your address or name, you must visit a DPS office in person.
The online replacement does not let you change your photo, address, or any personal details. It straightforward reproduces your existing license with a new card number and expiration date. If you need any changes to what appears on your license, you will have to go to a driver's license office and bring documents to support those changes.
Key Takeaways
- Online replacement through dps.texas.gov works only if your license expired within the last two years and you do not need to change your photo, address, or name.
- The online process costs $11, takes about 10 minutes to complete, and your replacement arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
- If your license expired more than two years ago, or if you need to update personal information, you must visit a DPS driver's license office in person with required documents.
- You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card) to complete the online order.
What you need before you start the online order
Gather these items before you go to the DPS website: your Social Security number, your date of birth, and your current Texas driver's license number. You will also need a debit or credit card to pay the $11 replacement fee. The system will not accept payment by check, money order, or cash.
Make sure you know your current mailing address, because the replacement license will be sent to the address on file with DPS. If you have moved since your license was issued and have not updated your address, the card may arrive at your old address. You can update your address online before ordering the replacement, but doing so may require you to visit an office in person depending on how long ago you moved.
Step-by-step process for ordering online
Go to dps.texas.gov and look for the "License Replacement" option under the Driver's License section. Click on "Order a Replacement License Online." The system will ask you to enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and Social Security number to verify your identity. Answer any security questions the system presents — these are based on your credit history and are designed to confirm you are the person on the license.
Once you pass the identity check, review the information the system displays. This is your chance to confirm that your name, date of birth, and address are correct. If anything is wrong, stop and visit a DPS office instead, because the online system will not let you make corrections. If everything looks right, proceed to payment. Enter your debit or credit card information and submit your order. You will receive a confirmation number on screen and by email.
Write down your confirmation number. You will need it if you have questions about your order or if your replacement does not arrive within 10 business days. The DPS website allows you to check the status of your order using this number.
When you cannot use the online replacement option
If your Texas driver's license expired more than two years ago, the online system will reject your order. You must visit a DPS driver's license office in person. Bring your expired license, proof of residency (a recent utility bill or lease agreement), and proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form). The office will issue you a new license on the spot or mail it to you depending on whether you need a new photo.
You also cannot use online replacement if you need to change your name, address, or photo. Name changes require a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Address changes can sometimes be done online through a separate process, but if you have moved out of state and back to Texas, or if your address change is recent, you may need to visit an office. Contact your local DPS office to confirm what documents you need before you go.
If your license was suspended or revoked, the online system will not process your order. You must resolve the suspension or revocation with DPS before you can get a replacement. Call the DPS Driver's License Division at 1-888-589-6900 to find out the status of your license and what steps you need to take.
How long it takes and what to expect
After you submit your online order, your replacement license is printed and mailed within 3 to 5 business days. Standard mail delivery takes another 3 to 5 business days, so you should receive your card within 7 to 10 business days total. This timeline assumes normal mail service and does not account for holidays or weather delays.
Your replacement license will have the same information as your current license — same name, address, date of birth, and restrictions or endorsements. The only things that change are the card number and the expiration date, which will be eight years from the date you order (or five years if you are over 85). If you ordered a replacement because your license was damaged or the information is incorrect, the new card will have the same issue unless you visit an office to make corrections.
What to do if your replacement does not arrive
If 10 business days have passed and you have not received your replacement license, check the status of your order on the DPS website using your confirmation number. The website will tell you whether your license was mailed, is in transit, or encountered a problem.
If the status shows your license was mailed but you still have not received it after 14 days, contact the DPS Driver's License Division at 1-888-589-6900. Have your confirmation number ready. DPS can file a claim with the postal service or issue a replacement card. If your license was lost in the mail, DPS may ask you to file a report or provide proof that you did not receive it.
If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you can print a temporary license from the DPS website using your confirmation number. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and can be used in place of your physical card for most purposes, including traffic stops. However, some businesses and government offices may not accept a printed temporary license, so confirm with the place you plan to use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order a replacement if my license is suspended or revoked?
No. The online system will reject your order if your license is suspended or revoked. You must contact the DPS Driver's License Division at 1-888-589-6900 to resolve the suspension or revocation first. Once it is cleared, you can order a replacement online or in person.
What if I moved and my address on file with DPS is wrong?
If you update your address through the DPS website before ordering your replacement, your new license will be mailed to your new address. However, if your address change is very recent or you moved out of state, you may need to visit an office in person. Call DPS to confirm whether you can update your address online or must visit an office.
Can I use the online replacement if I need a new photo?
No. The online replacement reproduces your existing photo. If you want a new photo, you must visit a DPS driver's license office in person. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.
Is the $11 fee the only cost?
Yes. The $11 fee covers the replacement license and is the only charge. There are no additional processing fees or shipping costs when you order online. If you visit an office in person, the fee is the same.
Can I track my replacement license after I order it?
You can check the status of your order on the DPS website using your confirmation number, but you cannot track the physical mail once it leaves DPS. The website will tell you whether your license has been mailed, but not its location in transit. If it does not arrive within 10 business days, contact DPS at 1-888-589-6900.