How to Replace a Stolen Driver's License

Get a replacement from your state's DMV or equivalent agency

When your driver's license is stolen, you report it to police and then request a replacement from the same agency that issued it — usually your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), though some states call it the Secretary of State's office or Department of Public Safety. You do not need to wait for a police report to be filed; you can start the replacement process when ready. Most states let you request a replacement in person, by mail, or online through their website.

The process is faster than getting an original license because you already have a record on file. Replacement licenses typically arrive in one to three weeks if you order by mail, or the same day if you go in person. Some states offer a temporary paper license you can use while waiting for the plastic card.

Key Takeaways

Report the theft to your local police department and keep the report number, since some DMV offices ask for it when you request a replacement.
Contact your state's DMV website or call their customer service line to find out whether you can order a replacement online, by mail, or only in person.
Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease), and a form of ID if you go in person — requirements vary by state.
A replacement license costs between $20 and $50 in most states, though some waive the fee if you report a theft within a certain timeframe.
If your license was used fraudulently after the theft, contact your bank and credit card companies to report unauthorized charges.

Report the theft to police first

Call your local police department's non-emergency line or visit a station to file a report for the stolen license. You do not need to do this before requesting a replacement — the DMV will issue one without a police report — but having a report number protects you if someone uses the stolen license to commit fraud or get pulled over in your name.

When you file the report, mention that the license was stolen and describe where and when you last had it. The police will give you a report number; write it down. Some DMV offices ask for this number when you request a replacement, and you will need it if you later discover fraudulent charges or traffic tickets in your name.

Find your state's DMV replacement process

Go to your state's DMV website and search for "replace stolen license" or "duplicate license." Most state DMV sites have a dedicated page explaining what documents you need and which methods are available. Write down the exact requirements for your state, because they vary — some states require a police report number, others do not; some accept online orders, others require you to appear in person.

If you cannot find the information online, call your state's DMV customer service line. Have your driver's license number ready if you can remember it, though the DMV can look you up by name and date of birth. Ask specifically whether you can order by mail or online, how long a replacement takes, and whether there is a fee waiver for theft.

Gather documents and submit your request

The documents you need depend on your state, but most require proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. Proof of identity can be a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card. Proof of residency is usually a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and current address. Some states accept a notarized affidavit stating that your license was stolen.

If you are ordering by mail, make copies of your documents and send them with the process form your state provides. Do not send originals. Include a check or money order for the replacement fee unless your state waives it for theft. Mail everything to the address listed on your state's DMV website, not to a local office.

If you are ordering online, upload scans or photos of your documents and pay the fee with a credit or debit card. If you must go in person, bring the originals and be prepared to wait. Bring the police report number if you have it.

Monitor your credit and accounts while you wait

While your replacement license is being processed, check your credit report and bank accounts for unauthorized activity. A stolen driver's license can be used to open accounts, explore for loans, or make purchases in your name. You can check your credit report for free once a year at annualcreditreport.com, which is the official site run by the three major credit bureaus.

If you see charges or accounts you did not create, contact your bank and credit card companies when ready. Tell them your license was stolen and ask them to flag your accounts for fraud. You can also place a fraud alert on your credit file by contacting one of the three bureaus — Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion — and they will notify the others. A fraud alert makes it harder for someone to open new accounts in your name.

What to do if your license is used fraudulently

If you discover that someone used your stolen license to get a traffic ticket, open a credit account, or commit another crime, contact the police department that issued the original report and give them the new information. Ask them to add it to your case file. Then contact the organization involved — the court that issued the ticket, the bank that opened the account, or the store where the fraud occurred — and explain that your license was stolen and used fraudulently.

Keep copies of all correspondence and police reports. If the fraud is serious or ongoing, you may want to consult with an attorney or contact your state's attorney general's office for guidance on next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive while waiting for my replacement license?

Most states issue a temporary paper license or receipt that you can use while your replacement is in the mail. Ask your DMV whether this is available in your state. If not, you should not drive until your new license arrives, since you cannot prove your identity or driving status to a police officer.

Do I have to pay a fee to replace a stolen license?

Most states charge $20 to $50 for a replacement license. Some states waive the fee if you report the theft to the DMV within 30 days and provide a police report number. Check your state's DMV website or call to ask whether a fee waiver applies to you.

What if I do not remember my license number?

You do not need your license number to request a replacement. The DMV can look you up by your name, date of birth, and address. If you are ordering by mail, include as much identifying information as you can so they can find your record quickly.

How long does it take to get a replacement license?

In-person replacements usually take the same day or a few days. Mail orders typically take one to three weeks, depending on your state's processing time. Some states offer expedited mail service for an extra fee. Check your state's DMV website for current processing times.

Should I cancel my old license?

The DMV will automatically invalidate your old license when you request a replacement, so you do not need to do anything. Once your new license arrives, the old one is no longer valid even if someone finds it.

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.