How to Replace a Lost California Driver's License

Getting a Replacement License After Losing Yours

You can replace a lost California driver's license through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in person, by mail, or online depending on your situation. The fastest route is usually the DMV website at dmv.ca.gov, where you can request a replacement and pay the $32 fee without leaving home — the new license arrives in about 10 business days. If you need to drive before then, you can get a temporary paper license the same day at any DMV office.

The process differs slightly depending on whether your license is lost, stolen, or expired. A lost license requires you to report it missing, while a stolen license may need a police report number. An expired license can sometimes be renewed instead of replaced, which is cheaper and faster.

Key Takeaways

You can order a replacement online at dmv.ca.gov for $32, and it will arrive in about 10 business days without visiting an office.
A temporary paper license issued at the DMV office on the same day lets you drive while you wait for your replacement to arrive.
If your license was stolen, bring a police report number to the DMV or include it in your online request.
You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address to request a replacement through any method.
Mailing in a request takes longer than online or in-person options and requires printing and mailing forms to the DMV.

Ordering Online Through the DMV Website

The DMV website lets you order a replacement license without visiting an office. Go to dmv.ca.gov, select "Order a Replacement Driver License or Identification Card," and follow the prompts. You will enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system verifies your identity against DMV records.

After verification, you pay the $32 replacement fee using a credit or debit card. The DMV mails your new license to the address on file, which takes about 10 business days. You can track the status of your order on the website using your driver's license number. This method works if your address is current in the DMV system — if you moved recently and have not updated your address, you will need to do that first or visit an office in person.

Getting a Temporary License at the DMV Office

If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, visit any DMV office to get a temporary paper license the same day. Bring your Social Security number, date of birth, and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). You do not need to bring the lost license itself.

The temporary license is valid for 60 days and looks like a printed form — it is not a plastic card, but law enforcement will recognize it as a valid license. Tell the DMV representative that you lost your license and need a temporary one while you wait for your replacement. The fee for the temporary license is included in the $32 replacement fee, so you pay only once. After your permanent replacement arrives, you can throw away the temporary paper license.

Replacing a Stolen License With a Police Report

If your license was stolen rather than lost, the DMV may ask for a police report number. You do not have to file a police report to get a replacement — the DMV will issue one without it — but having a report number can help if you are concerned about identity theft. If you want to file a report, contact your local police department's non-emergency line and ask to report a stolen license.

When you order your replacement online or visit the DMV office, mention that the license was stolen and provide the police report number if you have one. The DMV will note this in your record. If you are worried about fraud, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them — they will notify the others automatically.

Mailing in Your Replacement Request

You can mail a replacement request to the DMV, though this is slower than ordering online or visiting an office. read form DL 44 from dmv.ca.gov, fill it out completely, and mail it with a check or money order for $32 to the DMV address listed on the form. Include a copy of your proof of residence (utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the last 60 days).

Mail your request to the DMV office that serves your county. The DMV processes mail requests in the order received, which typically takes three to four weeks. You will not receive a temporary license this way, so you cannot drive legally until your replacement arrives. This method is useful only if you do not need to drive in the meantime and prefer not to visit an office or use the website.

Updating Your Address Before Ordering

If you moved recently and your DMV address is out of date, you must update it before ordering a replacement online. The DMV will mail your new license to the address in their system, so if it is wrong, your license will go to your old address.

Update your address online at dmv.ca.gov by selecting "Change Your Address," or visit a DMV office in person. You will need your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Once your address is updated, wait one business day before ordering your replacement online to make sure the change has processed. If you visit a DMV office to get a temporary license, you can update your address at the same time.

What to Do if Your License Number Was Compromised

If you are concerned that someone might use your license number for fraud, you can request a new license number along with your replacement. This is optional and costs an additional $5 on top of the $32 replacement fee. A new number is useful if you believe your identity information is at risk, though most people do not need this.

To request a new number, tell the DMV representative at the office, or call the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 before ordering online to ask how to add this to your request. Your new license will have a different number, which you will need to update with your employer, insurance company, and any other organizations that have your license on file.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement license in the mail?

The DMV typically mails your replacement within 10 business days of your order. Delivery time depends on your location and mail service, so allow an extra week for it to arrive. You can track your order status on dmv.ca.gov using your driver's license number.

Can I drive with a temporary paper license?

Yes, a temporary paper license issued by the DMV is valid for 60 days and is recognized by law enforcement. You can drive legally with it while you wait for your permanent replacement to arrive in the mail.

What if my address changed and I do not know what the DMV has on file?

You can check your current address on the DMV website by logging into your account, or call 1-800-777-0133. If your address is wrong, update it online or at an office before ordering your replacement, so the new license goes to the correct location.

Do I need a police report to replace a stolen license?

No, the DMV will issue a replacement without a police report. However, filing a report creates a record if you are concerned about identity theft, and you can provide the report number to the DMV when you order your replacement.

What if I lost my license and my ID card at the same time?

You can order both replacements together on dmv.ca.gov or at a DMV office. Each costs $32, so you will pay $64 total. Both will be mailed to your address and should arrive within 10 business days.

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.