Duplicate driver's license fees vary by state, from $5 to $30

The cost of a duplicate driver's license depends on which state issued your original license. There is no national fee — each state sets its own price. Most states charge between $5 and $20, though a few charge up to $30. Some states offer a lower fee if you order by mail instead of in person, while others charge the same either way.

You will need to know your state to find the exact fee. The fastest way is to visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website and search for "duplicate license cost" or "replacement license fee." If your state does not list the fee online, you can call the DMV directly or visit a local office.

Key Takeaways

  • Duplicate license fees range from $5 to $30 depending on your state, with most states charging $10 to $20.
  • You can order a duplicate in person at a DMV office, by mail, or online in some states — each method may have a different fee.
  • Processing time ranges from same-day (in-person) to two to four weeks (by mail), depending on your state and method.
  • You will need to bring proof of identity and your Social Security number, and you may need to pay an additional fee if you want expedited processing.
  • Some states charge extra for a REAL ID-compliant duplicate, which is required for federal travel starting in 2025.

How to order a duplicate in person at the DMV

Ordering in person is usually the fastest way to get a duplicate. Visit your local DMV office with your current license (or proof of identity if your license is lost), your Social Security number, and payment. Most DMV offices issue a duplicate on the spot or within a few hours. Bring a second form of ID if your license is lost, since the DMV will need to confirm who you are.

Call your local DMV office before you go to confirm their hours and whether they accept walk-ins or require an appointment. Some offices are appointment-only, and wait times can be long during peak hours. If you need the duplicate urgently, ask whether your state offers same-day service or expedited processing — this usually costs extra.

Ordering by mail or online

Many states allow you to order a duplicate by mail if your license is not lost or stolen. You will typically fill out a form (available on your state's DMV website), include a copy of your current license or other ID, and mail it with payment to the address listed on the form. Processing usually takes two to four weeks, though some states offer expedited mail service for an additional fee.

A growing number of states also offer online ordering. You upload a photo of your current license, enter your information, and pay by credit card. The duplicate is then mailed to your address. Check your state's DMV website to see whether online ordering is available in your state. Online ordering often has the same processing time as mail, but some states process online orders faster.

What to bring and what it costs

For an in-person duplicate, bring your current license or a second form of ID (such as a passport, birth certificate, or utility bill with your name and address), your Social Security number, and cash or a card for payment. Some DMV offices accept only certain payment methods, so check ahead.

The base fee covers a standard duplicate. If you want a REAL ID-compliant duplicate (required for domestic air travel and federal building access), your state may charge an additional $10 to $20. If you want expedited processing, expect to pay $5 to $15 extra. Some states also charge a small fee for mailing or handling if you order by mail.

Expedited processing and rush fees

If you need a duplicate urgently, most states offer expedited processing for an additional fee. In-person expedited service (same-day or next-day) usually costs $5 to $15 extra. Expedited mail service, where your duplicate is mailed by priority mail instead of standard mail, typically costs $10 to $20 extra and cuts processing time to one to two weeks.

Not all states offer expedited options, and availability varies by office. Call your local DMV or check their website to see what rush options are available in your state and what the total cost would be. If you are traveling soon, order as early as possible — even expedited service takes time, and some states cannot may provide same-day delivery.

Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, the process is the same as ordering a duplicate, but you will need to bring a second form of ID since you cannot show your original license. If your license was stolen, some states ask you to file a report with the DMV or police, though this is not always required to get a replacement.

If your license is damaged but still readable, some states will replace it at no extra charge. If it is unreadable or falling apart, you may be charged the standard duplicate fee. Bring the damaged license with you if possible, or call the DMV ahead of time to ask whether you need to file a damage report.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a duplicate license?

In-person service is usually same-day or within a few hours. Mail service takes two to four weeks, and online ordering typically takes the same time as mail. Expedited mail service can cut this to one to two weeks, depending on your state.

Can I drive with a temporary duplicate while I wait for the real one?

Some states issue a temporary paper license or receipt when you order in person, which you can use to drive while your plastic card is being made. Ask the DMV clerk whether a temporary is available. If you order by mail, you will not receive a temporary, so plan accordingly.

Do I have to pay again if I want a REAL ID-compliant duplicate?

Most states charge an additional $10 to $20 for a REAL ID duplicate on top of the standard duplicate fee. If your original license is already REAL ID-compliant, your duplicate will be too at no extra cost in some states. Check your state's DMV website or call to confirm.

What if I do not have my Social Security number memorized?

You will need your Social Security number to order a duplicate. If you do not have it memorized, contact the Social Security Administration or check documents like your tax return, W-2, or bank statements before you go to the DMV.

Can someone else pick up my duplicate license for me?

Policies vary by state. Some states allow a family member or authorized person to pick up a duplicate if you provide written permission and they bring ID. Call your local DMV to ask whether this is allowed and what paperwork you need to provide.