How to Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Driver's License

How to replace your driver's license

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged driver's license, you visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency in person, bring proof of identity and residency, pay a replacement fee, and sit for a new photo. The process takes about 30 minutes at the counter. Your replacement license will have the same number as your original, unless your state requires a new number for security reasons — check your state's DMV website to confirm.

If your license was stolen, you should also report it to local police and consider placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus, since a stolen ID can be used to open accounts in your name. Your state's DMV can tell you whether they recommend this step based on how identity theft is handled in your state.

Most states issue your replacement license on the spot or mail it within 7 to 14 business days. Some states charge less for a replacement than for a new license, and a few waive the fee if you report the loss to police first. Bring the police report if you have one — it may lower your cost.

Key Takeaways

You must visit your state's DMV in person with proof of identity and residency to get a replacement license.
Replacement fees vary by state but are usually lower than the cost of a new license, and some states waive the fee if you file a police report.
Your replacement license will arrive within 7 to 14 business days by mail, or you may receive it when ready at the counter depending on your state.
If your license was stolen, report it to police and consider a fraud alert with credit bureaus to protect against identity theft.
Your replacement license keeps the same number in most states, but a few states issue a new number for security reasons.

What documents you need to bring

Bring one form of primary ID — a passport, passport card, military ID, or state ID card. If you do not have a primary ID, bring two forms of secondary ID, such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, or school ID. Some states accept a combination of documents; your state's DMV website lists exactly what they accept.

You also need proof of residency — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days in most states. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you have moved recently and your ID does not show your new address, bring two pieces of proof showing the new address.

Bring your Social Security number or card. You do not need to bring your old license if it was lost or stolen, but if it was damaged, bring what remains of it.

Replacement fees and how long it takes

Replacement fees range from $5 to $30 depending on your state and whether you want a standard or Real ID-compliant license. A few states charge the same for replacement as for renewal; most charge less. Some states waive the fee entirely if you file a police report for a stolen license — ask the DMV clerk whether you may have access to.

If you pay for expedited processing, you can receive your license in 3 to 5 business days instead of 7 to 14, but expedited fees range from $10 to $25 on top of the replacement cost. Some states offer same-day replacement at the counter for an additional fee of $15 to $40.

Check your state's DMV website before you go, because processing times and fees change and vary by location. Some rural DMV offices take longer than urban ones.

Replacing a license while your driving privileges are suspended

If your license is suspended, you cannot get a replacement license that allows you to drive. The DMV will issue you a non-driving ID card instead, which you can use for identification but not for operating a vehicle. This card looks similar to a driver's license and costs the same or less.

Once your suspension ends and you have paid any required fines or completed any required programs — such as a DUI education course or traffic school — you can return to the DMV and exchange your non-driving ID for a full driver's license. Bring proof that your suspension has been lifted, such as a letter from the court or DMV.

If you need to drive before your suspension ends, you may be able to obtain a restricted license or hardship license that allows you to drive to work, school, or medical appointments. Rules vary widely by state and by the reason for suspension. Contact your state's DMV or the court that issued the suspension to learn whether you may have access to.

Replacing a Real ID-compliant license

If your current license is Real ID-compliant — marked with a gold or gold-colored star in the upper right corner — your replacement will also be Real ID-compliant at no extra cost in most states. You do not need to bring additional documents beyond the standard proof of identity and residency.

If your current license is not Real ID-compliant and you want your replacement to be, you will need to bring proof of citizenship in addition to your standard documents. Acceptable proof includes a passport, passport card, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or tribal ID. Some states charge $10 to $20 extra for Real ID compliance. Real ID is required to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building as of May 2025, so upgrading when you replace your license can save you a trip to the DMV later.

What to do if your license was suspended or revoked

If your license was suspended or revoked — usually for unpaid traffic fines, DUI, or accumulating too many points — you cannot straightforward replace it. You must first resolve the reason for the suspension or revocation. This might mean paying fines, completing a court-ordered program, or waiting out a mandatory suspension period.

Contact the court or DMV that issued the suspension to find out what you need to do. Once you have completed all requirements, the DMV will notify you that your driving privileges have been restored. At that point, you can visit the DMV to get a replacement license. Bring proof of restoration, such as a letter from the court or DMV.

If you need to drive before your suspension ends, ask the DMV about a restricted or hardship license. These are not available in all states or for all reasons, but they are worth asking about if you have a medical appointment, job, or school obligation that requires driving.

Replacing your license if you have changed your name

If you have changed your name since your last license was issued — through marriage, divorce, court order, or other legal means — bring proof of the name change along with your standard identity and residency documents. Acceptable proof includes a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or amended birth certificate.

Your replacement license will show your new name and will have a new number in most states. The process is the same as a standard replacement, and the fee is usually the same. Some states charge slightly more if a name change is involved, but most do not.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license by mail?

Most states do not allow you to renew or replace a driver's license by mail. You must visit the DMV in person. A few states offer mail-in renewal for people who are out of state or have a medical condition that prevents them from traveling, but replacement for a lost or stolen license almost always requires an in-person visit.

What if I lost my license out of state?

You can replace your license in any state, not just the state that issued it. Visit the DMV in the state where you are currently located, bring your proof of identity and residency, and pay the replacement fee. Your new license will be issued by that state. If you want to keep your original state's license, you will need to visit that state's DMV or wait until you return home.

How much does a replacement license cost?

Replacement fees range from $5 to $30 depending on your state. Most states charge less for replacement than for a new license. Some states waive the fee if you file a police report for a stolen license. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee in your area.

Do I need a new photo for my replacement license?

Yes, the DMV will take a new photo when you explore for a replacement license. You cannot use your old photo. Wear something you feel comfortable in and follow the DMV's photo guidelines, which usually mean no hats, sunglasses, or filters.

What if my replacement license arrives with an error?

Contact your state's DMV when ready. Bring your incorrect license and proof of the correct information — such as a birth certificate for your name or a lease for your address — and the DMV will issue a corrected replacement at no charge. This usually takes 7 to 14 business days.

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.