You can order a replacement license online in most states, but the process and what you can do online varies widely
Not every state lets you order a replacement license entirely online. Some states allow you to start the process online but require you to visit a DMV office to finish it. Others let you order online only if you're renewing a license that hasn't expired yet, or only if you lost your license rather than having it damaged. A few states have no online ordering at all and require you to go to an office in person.
The first step is to check your state's DMV website to see what your state actually offers. Search for "[your state] DMV order replacement license online" or look for a section called "Replace a Lost or Stolen License" on your state's DMV homepage. You'll find out whether online ordering is available to you, what documents you'll need, and whether you have to visit an office afterward.
If your state does offer online ordering, the basic process is the same everywhere: you'll verify your identity using information from your existing license, pay a fee, and choose how you want your new license delivered. Most states mail the new license to your address on file, though some offer expedited shipping for an extra cost.
Key Takeaways
- Online license replacement is available in most states, but what you can do online depends on whether your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, and whether it has expired.
- You must check your state's DMV website first, because the process, fees, and whether you need to visit an office in person vary by state.
- You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address to verify your identity during the online process.
- Most states mail your replacement license to your address on file within one to two weeks, though expedited shipping is often available for an additional fee.
What you need before you start
Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and current mailing address ready. You'll also need to know your current license number if you have it, though most states can look it up if you provide your name and date of birth.
Some states ask for additional information depending on why you need a replacement. If your license was stolen, you may need to provide a police report number or confirm that you've filed a report. If your license was damaged, some states ask you to describe what happened or upload a photo of the damaged license.
Check whether your state requires you to have a valid form of identification other than your driver's license to complete the online order. A few states will not let you order online if your license has been expired for more than a certain number of years — typically three to five years — because they consider that a renewal rather than a replacement.
How to find your state's online ordering system
Go to your state's official DMV website. The easiest way to find it is to search "[your state] DMV" in any search engine. Look for a link or section labeled "Replace License," "Lost or Stolen License," "Order a Duplicate License," or "Get a Replacement License." Some states call it "Renew or Replace" if they combine both processes on one page.
Once you find the right page, read the may be able to access section carefully. It will tell you whether you can complete the entire process online or whether you'll need to visit an office. It will also list the fee, which typically ranges from $10 to $30 for a replacement, though expedited delivery costs extra.
If you cannot find an online option on your state's DMV website, your state may not offer it. In that case, you'll need to visit a DMV office in person or mail in an process form. Your state's website will have instructions for both of those routes.
The steps to order online
Once you've confirmed your state offers online ordering and you meet the requirements, the process typically follows these steps:
- Click the link to start your order and select the reason you need a replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged).
- Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address.
- Verify your identity by answering security questions based on information from your driving record, such as previous addresses you've lived at or the make and model of a vehicle you've registered.
- Review your current license information on file and confirm it's correct, or update it if anything has changed.
- Choose how you want your new license delivered: standard mail or expedited shipping.
- Review the fee and complete payment using a credit or debit card.
- Receive a confirmation number and confirmation email with your order details.
Save your confirmation number. You'll need it if you want to check the status of your order or if you have questions about your replacement.
What happens after you order
Your state will mail your replacement license to the address you provided during checkout. Standard delivery usually takes one to two weeks from the time you place your order. Expedited delivery, where available, typically takes three to five business days but costs extra — usually $10 to $20 more than standard delivery.
Some states let you track your order online using your confirmation number. Check your state's DMV website to see if this option is available. If you don't receive your license within the expected timeframe, contact your state's DMV customer service line with your confirmation number.
If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, check whether your state issued you a temporary license number or temporary paper license during the online process. Some states do this automatically; others only do it if you request it. Your confirmation email will tell you whether you received a temporary license and how long it's valid.
When you might need to visit an office instead
Some situations require an in-person visit even if your state offers online ordering. If your address on file is different from your current address and you haven't updated it with your state yet, some states require you to visit an office to verify your new address in person. If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot order a replacement online — you'll need to resolve the suspension or revocation first, which requires visiting an office.
If your state requires a new photo for your replacement license, you may need to visit an office to have your photo taken. Most states use your existing photo from your current license, but some states retake photos every time you replace a license. Your state's website will tell you whether a new photo is required.
If the online system cannot verify your identity using the security questions, you'll be directed to visit an office in person or to call your state's DMV to complete the process over the phone.
Fees and payment
Replacement license fees vary by state. Most states charge between $10 and $30 for a standard replacement. If you choose expedited delivery, add $10 to $20 to that cost. A few states charge different fees depending on whether your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, or whether it's still valid or has expired.
Payment is made online using a credit or debit card during checkout. Your state will not accept cash, check, or money order for online orders. If you prefer to pay by another method, you'll need to visit an office in person or mail in an process.
Some states offer a discount if you order multiple documents at once, such as ordering a replacement license and a state ID card together. Check your state's website to see if this option is available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order a replacement license if my current license has expired?
It depends on your state. Some states let you order a replacement for an expired license online. Others treat an expired license as a renewal rather than a replacement and require you to visit an office or renew first. Check your state's DMV website to see what applies to you.
How do I know if my replacement license is on its way?
Your confirmation email will include an estimated delivery date. Some states let you track your order online using your confirmation number. If you don't receive your license by the estimated date, contact your state's DMV customer service with your confirmation number.
What if I move before my replacement license arrives?
Contact your state's DMV as soon as possible with your confirmation number. Some states can redirect your license to your new address if you notify them before it ships. If it's already in the mail, you may need to pick it up at your old address or request a new replacement sent to your new address.
Can I order a replacement if my license was suspended or revoked?
No. You must resolve the suspension or revocation first by visiting a DMV office or completing whatever requirement caused it. Once that's cleared, you can order a replacement online.
Do I get a temporary license while I wait for my replacement?
Some states issue a temporary license number or temporary paper license during the online process. Check your confirmation email to see if you received one and how long it's valid. If you didn't receive a temporary license and need to drive, contact your state's DMV to ask whether one can be issued.