How to Replace Your Driver's License

Where to go and what to bring

You replace your driver's license at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), or whatever your state calls it — some states use the Secretary of State's office, others use the Department of Transportation. You cannot do this online in most states, though a few allow you to renew by mail if your license is not expired and you have not changed your address or name.

Before you go, gather these documents: your current license (even if it is expired), proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, tax return, or W-2), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you have changed your name since your last license, bring the document that proves it — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If your license was lost or stolen, you may need to sign a statement saying so, but call your local DMV first to ask what they require.

Bring your original documents, not copies. The DMV staff will look at them but usually will not keep them. If you are replacing a license that was suspended or revoked, you will need to contact your state's DMV before you go in person — you cannot straightforward walk in and get a new one.

Key Takeaways

You must visit your state's DMV in person to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license; online renewal is not an option for replacements in most states.
Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your address, and any documents showing a name change.
The fee for a replacement license varies by state but typically ranges from $15 to $50.
A replacement license usually arrives by mail within two to four weeks; ask the DMV for a temporary paper license if you need to drive before then.
If your license was suspended or revoked, you must resolve that status with the DMV before you can get a replacement.

The cost and how long it takes

The fee for a replacement license depends on your state. Some states charge $15 to $25 for a standard replacement, while others charge $40 to $50. A few states charge less if you are replacing a license that was lost or stolen versus one that was damaged. Call your local DMV or check your state's DMV website to find the exact fee before you go.

Your new license will be mailed to the address you provide at the DMV. This usually takes two to four weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods or if there is a backlog. If you need to drive before your new license arrives, ask the DMV for a temporary paper license or temporary driving permit — most states issue these on the spot at no extra cost, and they are valid for 30 to 90 days depending on your state.

What happens at the DMV

When you arrive, check in at the front desk or take a number from the kiosk, depending on how your local DMV is set up. A staff member will review your documents, ask you to confirm your address and other information, and take a new photo for your license. You will pay the replacement fee at this time.

The whole process usually takes 15 to 45 minutes, depending on how busy the DMV is. Some DMVs let you make an appointment online, which can cut your wait time significantly. Check your state's DMV website to see if appointments are available in your area.

If your license was lost or stolen

If your license was lost or stolen, tell the DMV staff when you arrive. Some states require you to sign a statement confirming this, and a few states charge a slightly different fee for a replacement versus a renewal. The process is otherwise the same — you still need to bring proof of your identity, Social Security number, and address.

You do not need to file a police report to replace a lost or stolen license, though you may want to do so if you are concerned about identity theft. If someone uses your lost license to commit fraud or break the law, a police report creates a record that it was not you.

Replacing a damaged or unreadable license

If your license is damaged, faded, or the barcode no longer scans, you can replace it the same way you would replace a lost one. Bring the damaged license with you so the DMV can see the condition. Some states will not charge you a fee if the damage was caused by normal wear and tear, while others charge the standard replacement fee regardless. Ask when you call to confirm.

If your license is so damaged that it cannot be read, the DMV may ask you to take a new photo. If the damage is minor and the photo is still clear, they may not require a new one.

What to do if you cannot find your documents

If you cannot locate your Social Security card or proof of address, the DMV can usually work with alternatives. For proof of Social Security number, you can bring a tax return, W-2, or 1099 form instead. For proof of address, you can bring a lease, utility bill, insurance policy, or bank statement. Some DMVs also accept a letter from your employer or a government agency addressed to you at your current address.

If you do not have any of these documents, call your local DMV and ask what they will accept. Different DMVs have slightly different rules, and staff can tell you what will work in your situation. You may be able to bring a combination of documents that together prove your identity and address.

Replacing your license if you have moved out of state

If you have moved to a new state, you will need to get a license from that state instead of replacing your old one. Most states require you to get a new license within 30 to 60 days of moving there, though the exact timeline varies. You will need to visit the DMV in your new state and bring proof of your identity, Social Security number, and your new address. Your old out-of-state license will be surrendered, and you will receive a new one from your new state.

Some states offer a grace period if you are moving — you may be able to use your old license for a short time while you wait for your new one to arrive. Check your new state's DMV website to see what the rules are.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license the same day I explore?

Most states do not issue licenses on the spot. You will receive a temporary paper license at the DMV and your permanent license by mail in two to four weeks. A few states offer expedited processing for an extra fee, usually $10 to $25, which can cut the wait time to one to two weeks. Call your DMV to ask if this option is available.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring the document that proves your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will update your name on your new license. You will need to provide your new name and your old name so the DMV can match your records.

Do I need to take a new written test or driving test to get a replacement?

No. A replacement license is a new copy of your existing license with an updated photo. You do not need to retake any tests. If your license was suspended or revoked, however, you will need to resolve that issue and may need to retake a test before you can get a replacement.

What if I moved and my address on the license is wrong?

Tell the DMV staff when you arrive that your address has changed. They will update it on your new license at no extra cost. Bring proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. Your replacement license will be mailed to the address you provide at the DMV. You cannot pick it up in person because it is not printed at the DMV — it is printed at a state facility and mailed to you. If you need to drive before it arrives, ask for a temporary paper license at the DMV.

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.