What You'll Pay to Replace a Lost or Damaged License

License replacement costs between $5 and $30 in most states, depending on the type of license and whether you need it rushed

The cost to replace a license varies by state and by what kind of license you need. A standard driver's license replacement typically runs $10 to $25. A state ID card costs $5 to $20. If you need the replacement in a hurry — same-day or expedited service — expect to pay an extra $10 to $50 on top of the base fee. Some states charge the same amount whether you lost it, it was stolen, or it was damaged.

The fee covers the cost of producing the new card and processing your request. Most states do not charge extra if you need to update your address or photo at the same time, though a few do. If you are replacing a commercial driver's license (CDL), the cost is usually higher — $20 to $40 — because the testing and verification process is more involved.

Key Takeaways

Standard driver's license replacement costs $10 to $25 in most states, with state ID cards running $5 to $20.
Expedited or same-day service adds $10 to $50 to the base fee, depending on your state.
You will need to visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, and pay the fee at that time.
Commercial driver's licenses cost more to replace — typically $20 to $40 — because they require additional verification.
Some states allow you to order a replacement online or by mail for a standard license, which may take two to four weeks but costs the same as in-person replacement.

How to find your state's exact replacement fee

Your state's DMV website lists the replacement fee for each type of license. Search "[your state] DMV license replacement cost" or go directly to your state's motor vehicle agency website. The fee is usually posted on the page for "replace a lost or damaged license" or "duplicate license."

Some states break down fees by age group or license type. For example, a few states charge less to replace a license for someone under 21 than for an adult. A handful charge different amounts for a standard license versus a REAL ID-compliant license. Reading the fee table on your state's site takes two minutes and tells you exactly what to expect.

In-person replacement at the DMV

Most people replace a license by visiting their local DMV office in person. Bring a government-issued photo ID (passport, military ID, or another state ID), proof of your current address (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number or card. Pay the replacement fee — usually in cash, check, or card, depending on the office.

Processing time at the counter is typically 15 to 30 minutes. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot, valid for 30 to 60 days while your plastic card is printed and mailed to you. The plastic card usually arrives within one to three weeks. If you need the license sooner, ask about expedited printing when you pay the fee.

Mail and online replacement options

Some states allow you to order a replacement license by mail or through their online portal without visiting the DMV. You upload a photo, proof of identity, and proof of address through the state website, pay the fee online, and the card is mailed to you. This route takes two to four weeks and costs the same as in-person replacement.

Not all states offer this option, and some restrict it to people whose licenses are not yet expired or who do not need a photo update. Check your state's DMV website under "replace a license" to see whether mail or online replacement is available to you. If it is, you can avoid a trip to the DMV and still pay the standard fee.

Expedited and rush service fees

If you need a replacement license within a few days, most states offer expedited printing for an extra fee. This usually costs $10 to $25 on top of the replacement fee and gets your card printed and mailed within three to five business days instead of one to three weeks. A few states offer same-day service at select DMV locations for an additional $25 to $50.

Expedited service is not the same as a temporary license. You still receive a paper temporary at the counter, but the plastic card arrives faster. Same-day service is rare and usually only available at major DMV offices in large cities. Call your local DMV before you go to confirm whether same-day service is offered and whether you need to make an appointment.

What happens if your license was stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost, the replacement fee is the same. However, some states recommend that you report the theft to your local police department and keep a copy of the report. This protects you if someone tries to use your stolen license to open accounts or commit fraud in your name.

You do not need the police report to get a replacement license, but having one on file can help if you later dispute fraudulent charges or accounts opened in your name. Report the theft to the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) as well, and consider placing a fraud alert on your credit file.

Replacing a REAL ID-compliant license

A REAL ID-compliant license costs the same to replace as a standard license in most states. The difference is in what documents you need to bring. For a REAL ID license, you must show proof of citizenship (a passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers) in addition to proof of identity and address.

If your lost or damaged license was already REAL ID-compliant, you can replace it with another REAL ID license at the same cost. If you want to upgrade a standard license to REAL ID at the time of replacement, some states charge the same fee, while others charge a small upgrade fee of $5 to $10. Ask the DMV staff when you arrive whether an upgrade is available and what it costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license if my current one is expired?

Yes. A replacement for a lost or damaged license is processed the same way whether your license is expired or not. However, if your license is also expired, you may need to renew it at the same time, which could add a renewal fee on top of the replacement fee. Ask the DMV whether you can replace it without renewing, or whether both fees explore.

Do I have to pay the replacement fee if the DMV damaged my license?

No. If the DMV issued a defective card — one that is cracked, has a printing error, or does not scan properly — most states replace it for free. Bring the damaged card to the DMV and explain the defect. You may need to show proof that the card was issued recently and that the damage is not your fault.

What if I cannot afford the replacement fee right now?

Most DMV offices do not offer payment plans or fee waivers for license replacement. However, some states reduce the fee for people with very low income. Contact your local DMV office and ask whether a reduced fee or hardship waiver is available. Bring proof of income if you explore.

Can I replace my license online in every state?

No. Online replacement is available in some states but not all, and may be able to access rules vary. Check your state's DMV website to see whether you can order a replacement online. If your state does not offer it, you will need to visit the DMV in person or mail in your request.

How long does a replacement license take if I order it by mail?

Mail-in replacement usually takes two to four weeks from the time the DMV receives your request. This includes processing time at the DMV plus mailing time. If you need the license sooner, visit the DMV in person to get a temporary paper license on the spot, or ask about expedited printing.

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.