Where to order depends on your state

You order a replacement driver's license from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), not from a federal office. Each state runs its own licensing system, so the process, fees, and documents you need vary by location. Some states let you order online or by mail; others require you to visit an office in person.

Start by visiting your state DMV's official website. Search "[your state] DMV replacement license" to find the right page. The website will tell you whether you can mail in your request, use an online portal, or must appear at a local office.

If you cannot find your state's site or prefer to speak to someone, call your local DMV office directly. The phone number is on the state website. Have your current license number or Social Security number ready when you call.

Key Takeaways

  • Contact your state DMV directly through its official website or phone line, because each state handles replacement licenses differently.
  • You will need to provide your current license number, date of birth, and usually a form of payment; some states also require you to submit documents by mail or in person.
  • Replacement licenses typically cost between $20 and $50, depending on your state and whether you are replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged card.
  • Processing time ranges from one to four weeks for standard orders; some states offer expedited service for an additional fee.
  • If your license was lost or stolen, report it to your DMV at the same time you order a replacement, because some states require a police report or affidavit.

What documents and information you will need

Most states require your current license number or Social Security number to process a replacement order. Have your full legal name, date of birth, and current address ready. If your address has changed since your license was issued, you may need to provide proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease.

If your license was lost or stolen, some states require you to sign an affidavit (a sworn statement) saying it was not in your possession. A few states ask for a police report number. Check your state DMV website to see whether an affidavit is needed before you submit your order.

If you are replacing a damaged or worn license, you may need to send the old card with your request. The DMV website will specify whether to mail it in or bring it to an office.

Online and mail-in options

Many states now offer online replacement through their DMV portal. You log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, confirm your information, pay the fee by credit or debit card, and the new license is mailed to your address on file. This process usually takes five to ten business days to complete online, then another one to three weeks for delivery.

If your state does not offer online ordering, you can often mail in a form. read the replacement form from your state DMV website, fill it out completely, and mail it with payment (usually a check or money order) to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of your current license if the instructions ask for it. Mail-in orders typically take two to four weeks from the time the DMV receives your envelope.

Keep a copy of your confirmation number or receipt if you order online. If you mail in a form, send it by certified mail so you have proof of delivery.

In-person replacement at a DMV office

Some states require you to appear in person for a replacement license, especially if your address has changed or if you are replacing a lost or stolen card. Bring your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and payment. A few states also require a second form of ID, such as a passport or birth certificate.

Visit your state DMV website to find the office nearest you and check its hours. Many offices now use appointment systems; you can book a time slot online to avoid waiting in line. If appointments are not available, arrive early in the day, because offices often close to new arrivals once they reach capacity.

At the office, you will present your documents, confirm your information, and pay the fee. The DMV will take a new photo and issue a temporary license on the spot or mail your permanent card within one to three weeks.

Fees and processing times

Replacement license fees range from $20 to $50 depending on your state. Some states charge less if you are replacing a card that was damaged or worn, and more if it was lost or stolen. A few states charge the same fee regardless of the reason.

Standard processing takes one to four weeks from the time the DMV receives your complete order. If you order online or in person, the timeline usually starts from the day you submit. If you mail in a form, it starts when the DMV opens your envelope, so add three to five days for postal delivery.

Many states offer expedited service for an extra fee—usually $10 to $25—that cuts processing time to five to ten business days. Check your state DMV website to see whether expedited service is available and how to request it.

What to do if your license was lost or stolen

Report the loss or theft to your DMV when you order the replacement. Some states ask you to file a police report first and provide the report number; others accept a signed affidavit stating that the license was not in your possession. A few states do both.

Contact your local police department's non-emergency line to file a report if your state requires one. You do not need to visit the station in person; many departments take reports by phone. Write down the report number and the officer's name, because you will need this information when you submit your replacement order.

If your license was stolen and 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. This is a separate step from replacing your license but may help protect your credit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive while I wait for my replacement license?

If you ordered in person at a DMV office, you usually receive a temporary license when ready that is valid for 30 to 60 days. If you ordered online or by mail, you may not have proof of a valid license until the new card arrives. Check your state DMV website to see what temporary documentation they provide and whether it is valid for driving.

What if I moved to a different state?

You must order a new license from your new state's DMV, not your old one. Most states require you to obtain a license within 30 to 60 days of moving. Visit your new state's DMV website to see what documents you need—usually proof of residency, proof of identity, and proof of Social Security number.

How much does a replacement license cost?

Fees vary by state and range from $20 to $50. Some states charge extra if the license was lost or stolen, and offer discounts if it was damaged. Check your state DMV website for the exact fee and whether expedited processing is available.

Do I need to take a new photo for a replacement license?

If you order online or by mail, the DMV usually uses your existing photo from your current license. If you order in person at an office, the DMV will take a new photo. If you want a new photo for an online or mail order, contact your DMV to ask whether you can request one.

What if the DMV says my address is wrong?

Contact your DMV office by phone or through their website to update your address before you order a replacement. If you order with an incorrect address, the new license will be mailed to the wrong location. Some states let you update your address online; others require you to visit an office or mail in a form.