What you need to do to replace your Texas driver's license
If your Texas driver's license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). You'll need to visit a DPS office in person, bring specific documents, and pay a replacement fee. The process takes about 30 minutes, and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot while your plastic card is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.
The exact steps and documents depend on whether your license was lost, stolen, or damaged — and whether you need to report it to law enforcement. A damaged license is the simplest replacement; a stolen license requires a police report number before DPS will process it.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DPS office in person with a valid form of ID and proof of residency to replace your license.
- If your license was stolen, you need a police report number from your local police department before DPS will issue a replacement.
- The replacement fee is $16 for a standard license and $32 for a Real ID-compliant license, and you'll receive a temporary paper license when ready.
- Your new plastic license card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; you can use the temporary paper license to drive until it arrives.
- If your license is damaged but still readable, you may be able to renew it by mail instead of visiting an office.
Documents you need to bring to the DPS office
Bring one valid form of ID and one proof of residency. Your valid ID can be a passport, military ID, state ID card, or another government-issued photo ID. Your proof of residency must show your current Texas address and can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days.
If you're replacing a stolen license, also bring your police report number. You don't need the actual police report document — just the report number, which the officer gives you when you file the report. If you don't have the report number yet, file the report with your local police department first, then visit DPS.
Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized. You'll need it to complete the process, though you won't submit a card or document proving it.
How to file a police report for a stolen license
Call your local police department's non-emergency line or visit their station in person to report your license stolen. You don't need to wait for a crime to be solved — the officer will give you a report number when ready, usually within minutes of filing. Write down this number; you'll need it when you visit DPS.
If your license was stolen along with other items (wallet, purse, bag), report all of them in the same report. This creates a single report number you can use for all replacements. Some police departments allow you to file a report online; check your local department's website to see if that option is available.
You do not need to report a lost license to police — only a stolen one. If you straightforward lost it and don't know where it is, skip the police report and go straight to DPS with your documents.
Finding a DPS office near you and what to expect
Visit the Texas DPS website and use their office locator tool to find the nearest driver license office. Enter your city or zip code, and the tool will show you office locations, hours, and whether appointments are required. Some offices operate by appointment only; others accept walk-ins. Call ahead or check online before you go to confirm current hours and whether you need to book a time slot.
Bring all your documents and arrive during posted business hours. The wait time varies by location and time of day — early mornings and weekday afternoons are usually shorter than late afternoons and Saturdays. When you're called, tell the clerk you're replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license. They'll verify your documents, take a new photo if needed, and process your replacement on the spot.
You'll pay the replacement fee at the counter. A standard license costs $16; a Real ID-compliant license costs $32. Real ID is required for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings, but a standard license is sufficient for driving. Ask the clerk which type you currently have if you're unsure.
Your temporary license and when your new card arrives
Before you leave the DPS office, you'll receive a temporary paper license. This is a valid form of ID for driving and is recognized by law enforcement. Keep it with you while you drive — it serves as your license until your plastic card arrives. You can also use it for other purposes that require a driver's license, like opening a bank account or buying age-restricted items.
Your new plastic license card is mailed to the address you provided at DPS within 7 to 10 business days. Mail delivery times vary, so it may take a few extra days to reach you after DPS sends it. Once it arrives, the temporary paper license is no longer valid, though you can keep it for your records.
If your new license doesn't arrive within two weeks, contact DPS to confirm it was mailed. Keep your temporary license with you until the plastic card shows up.
Replacing a damaged license by mail
If your license is damaged but still readable — for example, cracked, faded, or water-damaged — you may be able to renew it by mail instead of visiting an office. Mail your current license, a completed DL-44 form (the Texas driver license process), and a check or money order for the replacement fee to the DPS address listed on their website.
This option is faster than visiting an office if you live far from a DPS location, but it takes longer overall because of mail delivery time. Your replacement license will be mailed back to you, so the total time is usually 2 to 3 weeks. You won't receive a temporary paper license with this method, so you'll need to wait for your new card before driving.
If your license is so damaged that it's not readable, or if it's been lost or stolen, you must visit a DPS office in person. The mail-in option only works for licenses that are still legible.
What to do if your license was used fraudulently
If you suspect someone used your stolen license to commit fraud — for example, to get a ticket, open an account, or commit a crime in your name — contact the Texas DPS Identity Theft Unit. You can file a report online through the DPS website or call their office. Provide your license number, the date you reported it stolen, and any details about the fraudulent activity you discovered.
DPS will flag your license number in their system to prevent misuse. If you've already received your replacement license and later discover fraud, contact DPS again with the details. Keep records of any police reports, credit card statements, or other documentation showing the fraudulent activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with my temporary paper license?
Yes, your temporary paper license is valid for driving. Law enforcement recognizes it as a legal form of ID. Keep it with you whenever you drive, just as you would your plastic license. Once your new plastic card arrives, the temporary license is no longer valid.
What if I moved since my last license and my address is wrong?
When you replace your license at the DPS office, you can update your address at the same time. Bring proof of your new residency (a utility bill or lease dated within 90 days) along with your other documents. The clerk will update your address during the replacement process at no extra cost.
Do I need a Real ID license or a standard license?
A standard license is sufficient for driving. Real ID is required only if you plan to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building without a passport. Real ID costs $16 more. If you're unsure which type you have, ask the DPS clerk when you visit, or check your current license — Real ID licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner.
What if I lost my license out of state?
You must replace it through Texas DPS, even if you're currently out of state. You can visit any DPS office in Texas when you return, or you can mail in your replacement request if your license is damaged and readable. If you need to drive before returning to Texas, contact your current state's DMV about a temporary license or ID.
How much does a replacement license cost?
A standard Texas driver's license replacement costs $16. A Real ID-compliant license costs $32. These are one-time fees paid at the DPS office when you submit your replacement. If you're replacing a stolen license, there is no additional fee for the police report — the report is free from your local police department.