How to Replace a Lost Driver's License in Texas

The fastest way to replace a lost Texas driver's license

You can replace a lost driver's license in Texas through the Department of Public Safety (DPS) in person, by mail, or online. The online option is fastest — you can order a replacement through the DPS website in about 10 minutes if your license is current and you have not changed your address or name. If you go in person to a DPS office, bring your Social Security number, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease dated within 90 days), and payment. By mail takes longer but works if you cannot reach an office.

The in-person route typically takes one to two hours at a DPS office, though wait times vary by location and time of day. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot and your replacement card by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The online method skips the office visit entirely — you pay the fee, confirm your information, and DPS mails the card to your address on file.

Key Takeaways

Texas DPS lets you order a replacement license online if your current license is valid and your address has not changed, which takes about 10 minutes and costs $16.
In-person replacement at a DPS office requires proof of residency (utility bill or lease within 90 days) and takes one to two hours, but you get a temporary license when ready.
Mail-in replacement works if you cannot visit an office, but takes two to three weeks total and requires you to mail in a completed form and payment.
You need your Social Security number for any replacement method, and DPS will mail your new card to the address currently on file with them.

Replacing your license online through DPS

The online replacement process is the simplest option if your license is not expired and your address has not changed. Go to the Texas DPS website, select "Order a Replacement License," and enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your information against DPS records.

Once verified, you will pay the $16 replacement fee by debit or credit card. DPS will mail your new license to the address on file, usually within 7 to 10 business days. You do not receive a temporary license through this method, so if you need to drive before the card arrives, you will need to use a different form of ID or go in person instead.

Getting a replacement at a DPS office in person

Walk into any DPS office with your Social Security number and proof of residency. Proof of residency must be an original document dated within the last 90 days — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. A copy will not be accepted. Bring a debit or credit card to pay the $16 fee.

Tell the staff member at the window that you lost your license. They will take your information, print a temporary paper license on the spot (valid for 30 days), and process your replacement card. The new card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive when ready, the temporary license is valid for that purpose.

DPS offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some locations open Saturday mornings. Arrive early or go mid-week to avoid peak wait times. You can find your nearest office and current wait times on the DPS website.

Replacing your license by mail

Mail-in replacement takes longer but works if you cannot visit an office. read the process for a Texas Driver License or Identification Card (Form DL-44) from the DPS website. Fill out the form completely, including your current address and the reason for replacement (lost license).

Mail the completed form, a check or money order for $16 (made payable to Texas DPS), and a copy of your proof of residency to the DPS address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a return envelope with your address if you want DPS to send confirmation back to you. The entire process takes two to three weeks from the time DPS receives your envelope.

You will not receive a temporary license through the mail process, so plan accordingly if you need to drive before the replacement arrives. Keep a copy of your mailed form for your records.

What to do if your address has changed

If you have moved since your license was issued, you cannot use the online replacement method. You must go in person to a DPS office or mail in your replacement request. Bring your new proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 90 days) along with your Social Security number and payment.

DPS will update your address in their system and mail your new license to the new address you provide. This takes the same amount of time as a standard replacement — 7 to 10 business days by mail after DPS processes your request.

What to do if your name has changed

A name change (through marriage, divorce, or legal petition) requires in-person replacement. You cannot use the online or mail-in methods. Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency, and an original document showing your new name — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. DPS will update your name and issue a new license.

The cost is still $16, and you will receive a temporary license at the office and your replacement card within 7 to 10 business days. If you have not yet updated your Social Security card or other documents, bring what you have — DPS will work with the documents you can show.

What happens if you find your lost license

If you find your original license after ordering a replacement, you do not need to cancel the replacement order. The new card will arrive as scheduled. Once it arrives, you can destroy the old license or keep it as a backup — there is no penalty for having both.

If your original license arrives before your replacement, you can still use the replacement when it comes. Having two valid licenses does not cause problems with DPS or law enforcement, though you should carry only one to avoid confusion during a traffic stop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital copy of my proof of residency?

No. DPS requires an original document for in-person replacement. Digital copies are not accepted. If you are mailing in your replacement, you can send a photocopy of your proof of residency, but the original must be dated within 90 days of your process.

What if I do not have proof of residency?

You will need to obtain one before replacing your license in person. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work if dated within 90 days. If you cannot get any of these, contact your local DPS office to ask about alternative documents they may accept.

How much does a replacement license cost?

A replacement license costs $16 in Texas, whether you order online, go in person, or mail in your request. This fee covers the card itself. You do not pay extra for the temporary license issued at the office.

Can someone else pick up my temporary license for me?

No. You must be present in person at the DPS office to receive your temporary license. The staff member will issue it to you directly after processing your replacement request.

What if my license expired while I was waiting for the replacement?

If your original license expired before your replacement arrived, the new card is still valid once it reaches you. You can drive with the temporary paper license (if you received one in person) until the replacement card arrives, or wait for the card if you ordered online.

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.