Where to request a duplicate license
You get a duplicate driver's license from 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 a Transportation Department. The fastest way is usually the DMV website, where most states let you order a replacement online and have it mailed to you within one to two weeks. A few states still require you to visit in person.
Start by searching "[your state] DMV duplicate driver's license" to land on your state's official page. That page will tell you whether you can order online, what documents you need, and what the fee is. Fees vary by state but typically run between $10 and $30.
If your license was lost or stolen, you may also want to report it to your state's DMV at the same time you order the duplicate — this prevents someone else from using your number. Some states do this automatically when you request a replacement; others require a separate report.
Key Takeaways
- Most states let you order a duplicate license online through the DMV website, and it arrives by mail in one to two weeks.
- You will need to provide your driver's license number, date of birth, and current address — have your old license or state ID card handy if you still have it.
- The fee is typically between $10 and $30 and varies by state.
- If your license was lost or stolen, report it to the DMV at the same time you order the duplicate to prevent misuse of your number.
- A few states require an in-person visit to the DMV office; check your state's website to see which option applies to you.
What you need before you order
Have your driver's license number ready — it appears on your old license, and you will need it to order the duplicate. If you do not have your old license, you can usually look up your number on your state's DMV website by entering your name, date of birth, and address. Some states will mail you a temporary license number if you cannot find it.
You will also need your current mailing address. If you have moved since your license was issued, update your address with the DMV first — some states will not mail a duplicate to an address that does not match their records. Address changes are usually free and can be done online or at the DMV office.
If you are ordering in person at a DMV office, bring a photo ID (a passport works) and proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. Online orders typically do not require you to upload documents — the DMV verifies your identity against its existing records.
Online ordering versus in-person requests
Online ordering is faster and more convenient if your state offers it. You fill out a form on the DMV website, pay the fee by credit or debit card, and the duplicate arrives in your mailbox within one to two weeks. You do not have to take time off work or wait in line. Most states that offer online ordering do so through their main DMV website or a dedicated license replacement portal.
In-person requests are necessary in a few states and may be faster if you need the license urgently — some DMV offices can issue a temporary paper license on the spot while you wait for the plastic card to arrive. However, in-person visits mean scheduling an appointment (many DMV offices now require this), traveling to the office, and waiting. Unless you need the license within days, online ordering is usually the better choice.
Check your state's DMV website to see which option is available to you. The website will also tell you whether you can walk in without an appointment or whether you must schedule ahead.
What happens if your license was stolen
If your license was stolen rather than lost, report the theft to the DMV and consider reporting it to local police as well. A police report is not required by most DMV offices, but it creates a record in case someone tries to use your license number fraudulently. You can file a police report online in many jurisdictions or by calling your local non-emergency police line.
When you order the duplicate from the DMV, mention that the original was stolen. Some states will flag your account and issue you a new license number to prevent misuse of the old one. Others will straightforward mail you a duplicate with the same number. Ask your state's DMV what protection it offers for stolen licenses.
If you are concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them. A fraud alert makes it harder for someone to open accounts in your name.
Temporary licenses and what to do while you wait
Some states issue a temporary paper license or digital license that you can use while the plastic duplicate is in the mail. Check your state's DMV website to see whether this is available. If it is, the temporary license is usually valid for 30 to 60 days — long enough for the permanent duplicate to arrive.
If your state does not offer a temporary license and you need to drive before the duplicate arrives, you have limited options. You cannot legally drive without a valid license, so if you need one urgently, an in-person visit to the DMV office may be necessary — some offices can issue a temporary paper license on the spot.
If you are not in a rush to drive, straightforward wait for the duplicate to arrive by mail. Most people receive it within one to two weeks of ordering.
Fees and payment methods
Duplicate license fees vary by state. Most states charge between $10 and $30, though a few charge more. Some states waive the fee if your license was lost or stolen due to a natural disaster. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee and whether any waivers explore to your situation.
Online orders are paid by credit card or debit card at the time you submit your request. In-person requests may accept cash, card, or check depending on the DMV office. Some states also accept payment through their online portal even if you are ordering in person — you pay online and then pick up the license at the office.
Keep your receipt or confirmation number. If something goes wrong with your order, you will need it to track down the status of your duplicate.
Tracking your duplicate and what to do if it does not arrive
After you order online, most states send you a confirmation email with a tracking number or reference number. Use this number to check the status of your order on the DMV website. Some states also let you sign up for text or email notifications when your license ships.
If your duplicate does not arrive within the expected timeframe — usually two to three weeks — contact the DMV to find out what happened. You can usually do this through the DMV website, by phone, or by visiting an office in person. Have your confirmation number ready.
If the duplicate was lost in the mail, the DMV can reissue it or investigate further. In rare cases, you may need to order a second duplicate, though most states will not charge you again if the first one was lost in transit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a duplicate license the same day?
Most states cannot issue a duplicate the same day through online ordering. However, some DMV offices can issue a temporary paper license on the spot if you visit in person. Call your local DMV office to ask whether same-day temporary licenses are available in your area.
Do I need to renew my license if I get a duplicate?
No. A duplicate has the same expiration date as your original license. You do not need to renew unless your license is actually expiring soon.
What if I moved and my address does not match the DMV records?
Update your address with the DMV before ordering the duplicate. Most states let you change your address online for free. Once your address is updated, you can order the duplicate and it will be mailed to your new location.
Can someone else order a duplicate license for me?
No. You must order it yourself using your own information. Some states allow a family member to pick up the duplicate at the DMV office after it arrives, but the order must come from you.
What if I lost my license number and cannot find it?
Look it up on your state's DMV website by entering your name, date of birth, and address. If you cannot find it online, call the DMV or visit an office in person and they will look it up for you.