Get a replacement license by visiting the DMV in person with proof of identity and residency
California requires you to replace a lost driver's license in person at a Department of Motor Vehicles office. You cannot renew or replace a license by mail or online, even if your license is still valid. The DMV will issue you a new license with the same number as your original one, so you do not need to update your number with employers or banks.
The process takes about 30 minutes at the DMV counter, though wait times vary by location and time of day. You will pay a replacement fee (currently $32 for a standard license, though this amount can change) and leave with a temporary paper license valid for 60 days while your plastic card is mailed to your address on file.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DMV office in person with a government-issued ID and proof of your current California address.
- Bring your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, as the DMV will verify it during replacement.
- The replacement fee is $32 for a standard driver's license, and you will receive a temporary paper license when ready.
- Your plastic replacement license arrives by mail within 10 to 14 business days to the address on file with the DMV.
- If your address has changed since your last license, bring a current utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement to update it.
What documents to bring to the DMV
Bring one government-issued photo ID such as a passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID. If you do not have a government-issued photo ID, you can bring two documents from the DMV's list of acceptable secondary IDs, such as a school ID, employee badge, or certified birth certificate.
You will also need proof that you live in California. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill dated within the last 60 days works. If you have moved recently and your address on file with the DMV is outdated, bring the proof of your new address so the DMV can update your record and mail your replacement license to the correct location.
Bring your Social Security number written down, or bring a document that shows it, such as a Social Security card or tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.
Finding and visiting a DMV office near you
Go to dmv.ca.gov and click "Find a DMV office" to see all locations in your county. The website shows hours, services available at each location, and current wait times at many offices. Some DMV offices are busier than others; smaller branch offices often have shorter waits than main offices in large cities.
You do not need an appointment for a replacement license at most DMV offices, but you can reserve a time slot online at dmv.ca.gov if you prefer. Walk-ins are accepted, but arriving early in the morning or on weekday mornings typically means shorter waits than afternoons or weekends.
If you cannot visit in person, a family member or friend can pick up your temporary paper license on your behalf if you give them a signed, notarized letter authorizing them to do so. However, you must still appear in person at the DMV to have your photo taken for the replacement license.
What happens after you submit your replacement request
The DMV will take a new photo and print your temporary paper license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 60 days and works as proof of your identity and driving status while you wait for the plastic card. You can use it to drive, board a plane within the United States, or enter federal buildings.
Your permanent plastic license is mailed to the address on file with the DMV within 10 to 14 business days. If you do not receive it within three weeks, contact the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 to check the status. Keep your temporary paper license until the plastic card arrives.
If your address has changed or you need to update other information
If you have moved since your last license was issued, tell the DMV staff when you explore for the replacement. Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days). The DMV will update your address in the system, and your replacement license will be mailed to your new address.
If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The DMV can update your name at the same time you replace your license.
Replacement fees and what they cover
The replacement fee for a standard California driver's license is $32. If your license is a commercial driver's license (CDL), the replacement fee is higher. The fee covers the new plastic license card and the temporary paper license issued on the spot.
The DMV accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at all offices. If you cannot pay the fee at the time of replacement, you cannot complete the transaction; the DMV does not offer payment plans for replacement licenses.
What to do if you cannot visit the DMV in person right now
If you are unable to visit a DMV office when ready, you can still drive legally using your temporary paper license once you obtain it. However, you must visit in person to get that temporary license in the first place.
If you are out of state or have a medical condition that prevents you from visiting, contact the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 to ask about your options. In rare cases, the DMV may be able to work with you, but replacement licenses almost always require an in-person visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license if it is suspended or revoked?
No. If your license is suspended or revoked, you must first resolve the suspension or revocation with the DMV before you can replace it. Contact the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 to find out why your license is suspended and what steps you need to take.
Do I need to replace my license if I found it after reporting it lost?
No. If you find your original license, you do not need to do anything. However, if you have already received a replacement license from the DMV, you should destroy your old license to prevent identity theft or fraud.
How long is a temporary paper license valid?
Your temporary paper license is valid for 60 days. If your permanent plastic license has not arrived by then, contact the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 to report it and request a new temporary license.
What if I lost my license and also need to renew it because it is expiring soon?
You can replace and renew at the same time. Tell the DMV staff that your license is both lost and expiring. You will pay both the replacement fee ($32) and the renewal fee (which varies based on your age and license type), and you will receive a new license valid for the full renewal period.
Can I get a replacement license with a different address than the one on file?
Yes. Bring proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days), and the DMV will update your address and mail your replacement license to the new location.