The cost to replace a Texas driver's license is $16 for a standard replacement, or $32 if you need it expedited
A standard replacement takes about two weeks. An expedited replacement costs twice as much but arrives in five to seven business days. Both prices cover the license itself; you do not pay extra for processing or handling. If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, the replacement fee is the same as if you straightforward want a duplicate.
You can replace your license in person at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, or by mail if your license is not suspended and you meet a few other conditions. The fee does not change based on which method you choose.
Key Takeaways
- Standard replacement costs $16 and takes about two weeks; expedited replacement costs $32 and takes five to seven business days.
- You can replace your license by mail for the same fee if your license is not suspended, you have not had a name change, and your current address is on file with DPS.
- In-person replacement at a DPS office takes the same time as mail replacement but lets you walk out with a temporary paper license the same day.
- If you need the license for a specific date — a job, travel, or court appearance — expedited is worth the extra $16 to avoid delays.
When you can replace by mail versus in person
Mail replacement is cheaper in time, not money — the fee is identical. You can mail in your replacement request if your current license is not suspended, your address on file with DPS matches where you live now, and you have not changed your name since the license was issued. You will also need to include a completed DL-44 form and a copy of one document proving your identity and residency (such as a utility bill, bank statement, or lease).
In-person replacement at a DPS office is faster in one way: you get a temporary paper license on the spot, valid for 45 days while your plastic card is being made. If you need to drive or show ID before your replacement arrives, this matters. The processing time after you leave is the same as mail — about two weeks for standard, five to seven days for expedited.
If your license is suspended, you cannot use mail replacement. You must go in person, and you will need to resolve the suspension before DPS will issue a new card. The $16 or $32 replacement fee does not cover suspension reinstatement, which has its own separate cost.
What happens if your license was suspended or revoked
If your license was suspended — for unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or a DUI conviction, for example — you cannot straightforward replace it. DPS will not issue a new license until the suspension is lifted. You have to address the reason for the suspension first, which might mean paying fines, completing a defensive driving course, or serving a waiting period.
Once the suspension is resolved, you can replace your license in person at a DPS office. Bring proof that the suspension has been cleared — a court document, a receipt from the court or county clerk, or a letter from DPS itself. The replacement fee is still $16 or $32; you do not pay extra because of the suspension history.
Replacing a license that was lost or stolen
The cost is the same whether your license was lost, stolen, or straightforward worn out — $16 standard or $32 expedited. You do not need a police report for a lost or stolen license, though if your wallet or purse was stolen and contained other documents, you may want one for your records.
If your license was stolen and you are concerned about identity theft, you can place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) at no cost. This is separate from replacing your license and does not affect the $16 fee.
How to replace your license by mail
Complete a DL-44 form (available on the DPS website) and mail it with a copy of your current license, a copy of one identity and residency document, and a check or money order for $16 (standard) or $32 (expedited). Do not send cash. Include a return address and mail everything to the DPS address listed on the form.
Standard mail replacement takes about two weeks from the time DPS receives your envelope. Expedited takes five to seven business days. You will not receive a temporary license by mail — your old license remains valid until the new one arrives. If you need to drive before then and your old license is lost or stolen, you will need to go in person to get a temporary paper license.
How to replace your license in person
Visit any DPS office with your current license (or a copy if it is lost or stolen), proof of identity and residency, and payment of $16 or $32. Bring the original documents or certified copies — a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government-issued ID all work. The office will take your photo, process your request, and give you a temporary paper license valid for 45 days.
Your plastic license will arrive by mail in about two weeks (standard) or five to seven business days (expedited). You do not need to return to the office to pick it up. The temporary paper license is valid for driving and showing as ID until your card arrives.
What to bring and what documents work
| Document Type | Works for Identity? | Works for Residency? |
|---|---|---|
| Current Texas driver's license | Yes | Yes |
| Passport or passport card | Yes | No |
| Birth certificate (certified copy) | Yes | No |
| Utility bill (gas, electric, water) | No | Yes |
| Lease or rental agreement | No | Yes |
| Bank or credit card statement | No | Yes |
| Government check or tax return | No | Yes |
You need at least one document that proves identity and at least one that proves residency. They can be the same document (like a current driver's license) or two different ones. Residency documents must show your current address and be dated within the last 90 days (except leases and rental agreements, which can be older).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license online?
No. Texas does not offer online license replacement. You can replace by mail or in person at a DPS office. Mail replacement is the closest option if you want to avoid going in person, but you still have to print, sign, and mail physical documents.
What if my address changed since I got my license?
You can still replace by mail if your current address is on file with DPS — you may have updated it when you renewed your vehicle registration or changed your address with the post office. If your address is not on file, go in person and bring a residency document showing your new address. The replacement fee stays $16 or $32.
Do I have to replace my license if it is expiring soon?
No. Replacement and renewal are different. Replacement is for a lost, stolen, or damaged license. Renewal is for one that is about to expire. If your license is expiring, you renew it (different fee and process). If it is lost or damaged, you replace it.
How long is a temporary paper license good for?
A temporary paper license issued in person is valid for 45 days. Your plastic license should arrive before then. If it does not, contact DPS to check the status. Do not drive on an expired temporary license.
What if I need my license for a specific date?
Choose expedited replacement ($32) if you need the license within a week. Five to seven business days is the fastest DPS offers. If you need it sooner, get a temporary paper license in person — it is valid when ready and good for 45 days while you wait for the plastic card.