How to Replace a Lost Texas Driver's License Online

You can replace a lost Texas driver's license through the Department of Public Safety website without visiting an office

Texas allows you to request a replacement license online through the DPS website if your license was lost or stolen. You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and a valid payment method. The process takes about 10 minutes, and your new license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Online replacement works only if your current license is still valid (not expired) and you have not had more than one replacement in the past year. If your license expired more than two years ago, or if you need to update your address or other information at the same time, you will need to visit a DPS office in person instead.

Key Takeaways

Go to the Texas DPS website, select "Replace License" under the Driver License section, and follow the prompts to enter your personal information and pay the replacement fee.
Your current license must still be valid (not expired) to use the online process; if it expired more than two years ago, you must visit a DPS office.
You cannot replace your license online if you have already had one replacement in the past 12 months.
The replacement fee is $11 and can be paid by debit card or credit card during the online process.
Your new license will be mailed to the address on file with DPS, so update your address before you explore if you have moved recently.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you go to the DPS website: your Social Security number, your date of birth, and your driver's license number (if you remember it). You will also need a debit or credit card to pay the $11 replacement fee.

Check that your current address is correct in the DPS system. Your new license will be mailed to the address DPS has on file. If you have moved since your license was issued, you will need to update your address through the online system before you request the replacement, or the card will go to your old address. You can update your address on the DPS website under "Change Address" without ordering a new license.

Step-by-step: ordering your replacement online

Go to the Texas Department of Public Safety website (dps.texas.gov). Look for the Driver License section and select "Replace License." You will be taken to a form that asks for your personal information.

Enter your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and driver's license number. The system will verify your identity and pull up your current license record. Review the information on the screen to make sure it is correct, especially your mailing address.

Select the reason for replacement (lost or stolen) and confirm that you have not had a replacement in the past 12 months. If you have, the online option will not be available and you will see a message directing you to visit a DPS office instead.

Proceed to payment. Enter your debit or credit card information and pay the $11 fee. You will receive a confirmation number on the screen and by email. Save this number in case you need to check the status of your order later.

How long it takes and where it goes

Your new license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days from the date you submit your order. Mail delivery times can vary depending on your location, so allow up to two weeks before contacting DPS if your license has not arrived.

The license will be sent to the address on file with DPS. If you need it sent to a different address, you cannot change the mailing address after you have submitted the order. You would need to cancel and start over, or visit a DPS office to request a replacement sent to a different location.

When you cannot use the online process

The online replacement option is not available if your license expired more than two years ago. In that case, you will need to renew your license instead of replacing it, which requires an in-person visit to a DPS office.

You also cannot replace your license online if you have already had one replacement in the past 12 months. This limit exists to prevent fraud. If you need another replacement within that window, you must visit a DPS office and bring your ID and proof of the lost or stolen license (such as a police report).

If you need to change your name, address, or other information on your license at the same time, the online process will not let you do that. You will need to visit an office in person to make those changes along with the replacement.

What to do if your order does not arrive

If your license does not arrive within two weeks, you can check the status of your order on the DPS website using your confirmation number. Go to the Driver License section and select "Check Status" to see whether your replacement has been processed and mailed.

If the status shows your order was processed but you still have not received it after three weeks, contact the DPS by phone at 1-888-589-6556. Have your confirmation number ready. DPS can investigate whether the mail was lost and may be able to reissue your license or have it sent again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the online process if my license was stolen and I filed a police report?

Yes. The online process does not require you to upload or provide a police report. However, if you are replacing a stolen license for the second time within 12 months, you will need to visit a DPS office in person and bring the police report with you.

What if I do not remember my driver's license number?

The DPS website will let you proceed without your license number if you provide your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. The system will look up your record and fill in the license number for you.

Can I pick up my replacement license at a DPS office instead of waiting for mail?

No. When you order online, your license is mailed to you automatically. If you need your license faster, you must visit a DPS office in person and request an expedited replacement, though this may cost more than the online fee.

Will my new license have the same number as my lost one?

Yes. Your replacement license will have the same license number as your lost license. The number stays with you unless you renew your license or change your name.

What if my address changed since I got my current license?

Update your address on the DPS website before you order your replacement. Go to the Driver License section, select "Change Address," and follow the prompts. Your new license will then be mailed to your updated address.

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.