Texas Replacement License Fees and What They Cover

A replacement Texas driver's license costs $16 if you are renewing it at the same time, or $11 if you are replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license without renewing. The difference matters: a renewal extends your license expiration date; a replacement does not. If your license is not yet expired, a replacement keeps the same expiration date you already have.

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) charges these fees whether you explore in person at a driver's license office or by mail. Payment methods vary by location — most offices take cash, check, or card, but some accept only certain forms. Call ahead or check the DPS website for your specific office's payment options.

These fees cover the physical card and the processing of your request. They do not include any additional documents you may need to bring, such as proof of residency or identity verification, which you must gather yourself.

Key Takeaways

  • A replacement license without renewal costs $11; a replacement combined with renewal costs $16.
  • You can replace your license by mail or in person at any Texas DPS driver's license office.
  • Processing time is typically 5 to 10 business days by mail or same-day if you explore in person.
  • You will need proof of identity and proof of residency, even though the fee itself does not change based on your situation.
  • If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot replace it until the suspension or revocation is lifted.

When You Need a Replacement Versus a Renewal

A replacement is what you need if your license is lost, stolen, damaged, or the information on it is wrong. You keep the same expiration date. A renewal extends your license for another term — typically four or six years, depending on your age. You can do both at once if your license is expiring soon and you also need to replace it.

If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot straightforward replace it — you must renew it instead. The DPS treats this as a new process, not a replacement, and the fee structure changes. Contact the DPS or visit a driver's license office to confirm which category applies to you.

In-Person Replacement at a Texas DPS Office

Replacing your license in person takes one visit and produces a temporary paper license on the spot. You will receive your permanent card by mail within 5 to 10 business days. Bring your current license if you have it, or two forms of ID if you do not. You will also need proof of residency — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days works.

No appointment is required at most Texas DPS offices, but wait times vary widely. Some offices have shorter lines early in the morning or mid-week. Check the DPS website for your nearest office location and hours. Bring the $11 fee in cash, check, or card, depending on what the office accepts.

If you are replacing your license because it was stolen, bring a police report if you have one. The DPS does not require it, but having it on hand can speed up the process if the office asks questions about the theft.

Replacing Your License by Mail

You can request a replacement by mail if your license is not suspended or revoked and you do not need to change any information on it. Complete form DL-44 (process for Texas Driver's License) or form DL-43 (Renewal process), depending on whether you are also renewing. Mail the form with a check or money order for $11 (or $16 if renewing) to the address listed on the DPS website.

Include a copy of your proof of identity and proof of residency. Do not send original documents — the DPS will not return them. Processing takes 5 to 10 business days after the DPS receives your envelope. Your temporary paper license will not be mailed to you; you will receive only your permanent card.

Mail replacement is slower than in-person replacement because you do not get a temporary license when ready. If you need to drive before your new card arrives, you will need to explore in person instead.

What Happens If Your License Is Suspended or Revoked

You cannot replace a suspended or revoked license. The DPS will reject your request. First, you must resolve the suspension or revocation — this usually means paying outstanding fines, completing a required course, or waiting out a mandatory suspension period. Contact the DPS or the court that issued the suspension to find out what steps you need to take.

Once the suspension or revocation is lifted, you can explore for a replacement. The $11 fee still applies. If you are unsure whether your license is suspended, call the DPS or check your status online through the Texas DPS website.

Replacing a License with Incorrect Information

If your name, address, or other information on your license is wrong, you can correct it during a replacement. Bring documents that prove the correct information — a marriage certificate for a name change, a lease or utility bill for an address change. The replacement fee is still $11 (or $16 if you are also renewing).

Some corrections, such as a legal name change, may require additional steps. The DPS office will tell you what documents you need before you leave. If the correction is complex, ask whether you should explore in person rather than by mail, so you can clarify any questions on the spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my replacement?

Yes, but only if you explore in person at a DPS office. You will receive a paper temporary license valid for 45 days. If you explore by mail, you will not receive a temporary license — you will get only your permanent card when it arrives.

What if I lost my license out of state?

You can still replace it by mail or in person at any Texas DPS office. You do not need to be in Texas to request a replacement. If you are out of state and need to drive before your new card arrives, you may want to explore in person at the nearest Texas DPS office, or contact the DPS to ask about other options.

Do I have to pay the replacement fee if the DPS made a mistake on my license?

No. If the DPS issued your license with an error — such as a misspelled name or wrong date of birth — you can request a corrected license at no charge. Bring your current license and proof of the correct information. The DPS will replace it for free.

How long does a replacement license stay valid?

A replacement license keeps the same expiration date as your original license. If your original license expired in 2027, your replacement also expires in 2027. If you want to extend the expiration date, you must renew at the same time, which costs $16 instead of $11.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. You must pick up your temporary paper license in person at the DPS office where you applied. Your permanent card will be mailed to the address on file, so someone else can receive it in the mail, but you must be present to get the temporary license.