How to Replace a Lost Driver's License in Texas

The fastest way to replace a lost Texas driver's license

You can replace a lost Texas driver's license in person at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, or online through the Texas DPS website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route takes about 20 minutes and costs $16 for a standard five-year license. The online route, available only if your license expired less than two years ago and you have no address changes, takes a few days and costs $11.

You do not need to bring your original license — it is lost. You will need a form of identification that shows your name and date of birth, such as a passport, birth certificate, or military ID. If you are replacing it in person, bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, proof of Texas residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and payment by cash, check, or card.

If you cannot visit a DPS office in person, you can mail in a replacement request using Form DL-44, but this takes longer — typically two to three weeks — and requires notarization of your signature.

Key Takeaways

In-person replacement at a DPS office is the fastest option and takes about 20 minutes, costing $16 for a standard license.
Online replacement through the Texas DPS website works only if your license expired within the last two years and you have not changed your address.
You will need a valid form of ID showing your name and date of birth, proof of residency dated within 90 days, and your Social Security number or a document showing it.
Mail-in replacement using Form DL-44 takes two to three weeks and requires your signature to be notarized.
Texas DPS offices are located in every major city and many smaller towns; you can find the nearest one on the Texas DPS website.

What documents you need to bring in person

The Texas DPS requires specific documents to verify your identity and residency. Bring one form of identification that shows your name and date of birth — a passport, birth certificate, military ID, or state ID from another state all work. You also need proof that you live in Texas, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail, all dated within the last 90 days.

You must also provide your Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security card with you, bring a document that shows it, such as a W-2 form, tax return, or Social Security statement. The DPS will not accept a verbal statement of your number.

Bring payment in cash, by check, or by debit or credit card. The standard five-year license costs $16. If you want a Real ID-compliant license (required for federal building access and domestic flights), the cost is $32 for five years.

Online replacement: when it works and how to do it

The Texas DPS online replacement system is available only if your license expired less than two years ago, you have not changed your address since it was issued, and you have a valid email address. You cannot use the online system if your license was suspended, revoked, or cancelled, or if you need to update any information on it.

To replace online, go to the Texas DPS website and select the driver's license renewal or replacement option. You will need to enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your information against DPS records. If everything matches, you can pay the $11 fee by debit or credit card. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within a few business days.

If the online system tells you that you do not meet the requirements, you will need to visit a DPS office in person or mail in your replacement request.

Finding a DPS office and what to expect when you arrive

Texas has DPS offices in every major city and in most counties. You can find the office nearest you by entering your zip code on the Texas DPS website. Many offices do not require an appointment, but some busy locations now use an online appointment system. Check the website for your specific office to see whether you can walk in or need to book a time slot.

Arrive with all your documents and payment ready. Processing usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. You will be asked to sit for a new photo and to sign the license process. The DPS will issue you a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed to you. Your new plastic license typically arrives within one to two weeks.

If you are replacing a license that was lost or stolen, tell the staff member when you arrive. They may ask you to sign a statement confirming the loss. This does not affect the replacement process or cost.

Mail-in replacement using Form DL-44

If you cannot visit a DPS office, you can mail in a replacement request using the Texas DPS Form DL-44. This form must be notarized — your signature must be witnessed and certified by a notary public. You can find notaries at banks, law offices, UPS stores, and some libraries. Notarization typically costs $5 to $15.

With your notarized Form DL-44, mail a copy of your identification (front and back), proof of residency, and a check or money order for $16 to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a note with your current mailing address and phone number. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the DPS receives your envelope. Mail can be delayed, so consider sending it by certified mail if you need the license by a specific date.

The mail-in route is slower and requires more steps than in-person replacement, so use it only if you cannot visit an office.

Real ID compliance and upgrade options

A standard Texas driver's license costs $16 for five years. A Real ID-compliant license costs $32 for five years. Real ID licenses are required to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings as of May 2025. If you are replacing your lost license, you can choose either type at the time of replacement.

To get a Real ID license, you need the same documents as a standard replacement, plus one additional document proving your Social Security number (such as a W-2 or tax return) and proof of your legal name change if applicable. The process takes the same amount of time — about 20 minutes in person — but the license itself looks slightly different and has a gold star in the upper right corner.

If you replace your license now with a standard license and later need Real ID compliance, you can upgrade to a Real ID license at any DPS office by paying the difference in cost.

What happens if your license was stolen, not just lost

If your license was stolen rather than lost, the replacement process is the same, but you may want to consider additional steps. A stolen license could be used for identity fraud or to open accounts in your name. You are not responsible for fraudulent charges if someone uses your stolen license, but reporting the theft can help protect you.

You can file a report with the Texas Attorney General's Identity Theft Enforcement and Protection Division, or with the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov. Filing a report creates an official record that can help you dispute fraudulent charges or accounts. You do not need to file a report to replace your license, but doing so is a reasonable precaution if you believe the license could be misused.

When you replace your stolen license at a DPS office, mention that it was stolen. The staff will note this in their system, which may help if someone later tries to use the old license number fraudulently.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement license in the mail?

If you replace your license in person at a DPS office, you receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days, and your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within one to two weeks. If you replace it online, your new license arrives within a few business days. If you mail in Form DL-44, processing takes two to three weeks from the date the DPS receives your envelope, plus mail delivery time.

Can I drive while I wait for my replacement license?

Yes. The temporary paper license issued at a DPS office is valid for 30 days and can be used for driving. If you replace your license online or by mail, you should not drive until you receive your permanent license, since you will have no valid license in hand during processing.

What if I lost my license and my ID at the same time?

You can still replace your license if you have any other form of identification showing your name and date of birth, such as a passport, birth certificate, or military ID. If you have none of these, you will need to obtain one first — a birth certificate can be ordered from the Texas Vital Statistics unit or from the county where you were born.

Do I have to get a Real ID license, or can I keep a standard license?

You can choose either. A standard license costs $16 and works for driving and most identification purposes. A Real ID license costs $32 and is required for domestic flights and federal building access. You can replace your lost license with a standard license now and upgrade to Real ID later if you need it.

What if the DPS office says my documents do not match their records?

This usually happens if your address, name, or other information has changed since your last license was issued. Bring any documents that explain the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If the mismatch cannot be resolved at the office, ask what additional documents you need and whether you can mail them in or return with them later.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.