How to Order a Replacement or Duplicate Driver's License

How to order a new license when yours is lost, stolen, or damaged

You can order a replacement license through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency — usually online, by mail, or in person. The process is faster and simpler than getting your first license because you've already passed the written and road tests. Most states let you order a duplicate (an exact copy of your current license) or a replacement (a new card with the same number and class). The main difference is cost: a duplicate typically costs less, while a replacement may cost more if your license has expired or if you're upgrading the card itself.

The exact steps depend on your state and whether you're ordering online, by mail, or walking into a DMV office. Some states process online orders in days; others take two to four weeks by mail. If you need to drive before your new license arrives, many states issue a temporary paper license or receipt you can use when ready.

Key Takeaways

Most states let you order a replacement license online or by mail without visiting an office, though some require an in-person visit for certain situations like address changes.
You will need your current license number, date of birth, and sometimes a copy of your current license or a government ID to prove your identity.
A duplicate license costs less than a replacement and takes the same time to arrive, so order a duplicate if your current license is still valid and you only need a copy.
Many states issue a temporary paper license or receipt at the time of order that you can use to drive while waiting for your new card to arrive by mail.
Processing time ranges from same-day (for in-person orders with when ready issuance) to four weeks by mail, depending on your state and the method you choose.

Ordering online through your state DMV website

Most states now offer online ordering for replacement and duplicate licenses. Go to your state's DMV website and look for a link labeled "Order a Replacement License," "Duplicate License," or "Replace Lost/Stolen License." You'll create an account or log in with your driver's license number and date of birth.

The form will ask for your current license number, address, and sometimes a photo. If your state requires a new photo, you may upload one or be directed to a partner location (often a CVS, Walgreens, or local DMV office) where you can have one taken. After you submit the form and pay the fee by credit or debit card, you'll receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file, usually within 7 to 21 days depending on your state.

Some states issue a temporary digital license or a printable receipt you can use when ready while your physical card is in the mail. Check your confirmation email or your state's DMV app to see if this is available to you.

Ordering by mail with a paper form

If your state doesn't offer online ordering, or if you prefer to order by mail, you can request a form from your state DMV website or call their customer service line. Print the form, fill it out by hand, and include a copy of your current license or another government ID as proof of identity.

Mail the form, your ID copy, and a check or money order for the fee to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if your state requests one. Processing by mail typically takes 2 to 4 weeks from the date the DMV receives your envelope, plus mailing time in both directions.

Keep a copy of everything you mail and note the date you send it. If you don't receive your license within the timeframe your state publishes, contact the DMV with your confirmation details to check the status.

Ordering in person at a DMV office

You can walk into any DMV office and order a replacement or duplicate license on the spot. Bring your current license or another government ID (passport, state ID, military ID). You'll fill out a form, pay the fee, and have your photo taken if your state requires a new one.

Some DMV offices issue a temporary paper license when ready that you can use to drive while your permanent card is printed and mailed. Others print your new license on-site and hand it to you the same day, though this varies by state and office. Call ahead to ask whether your state's DMV offers same-day issuance or only mails the card later.

In-person ordering is the fastest route if you need to drive right away, but it requires a trip to the DMV during business hours. Wait times vary widely by location and time of day.

What to bring and what it costs

For any method of ordering, you'll need your current license number and date of birth. If you're ordering online, you may only need these two pieces of information. If you're ordering by mail or in person, bring your current license or another government ID to prove your identity.

The cost of a duplicate or replacement license varies by state, typically ranging from $10 to $30. Some states charge less for a duplicate (an exact copy) than for a replacement (a new card). A few states charge extra if you need a new photo or if your license has expired. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee before you order.

Payment methods depend on how you order. Online orders accept credit and debit cards. Mail orders require a check or money order. In-person orders usually accept cash, check, card, or money order.

If your license was lost or stolen

Ordering a replacement for a lost or stolen license is the same process as ordering a duplicate, but you may want to take an extra step: report the loss or theft to your state DMV. This creates a record that your old license is no longer valid, which protects you if someone tries to use it fraudulently.

Some states let you report a lost or stolen license on the same form you use to order a replacement. Others have a separate reporting process on their website. Check your state's DMV site for a "Report Lost License" or "Report Stolen License" option. Reporting is usually free and takes just a few minutes.

Once you report your license as lost or stolen, your old license number is deactivated. Your new replacement will have the same number, but the old card will no longer work for identification or driving purposes.

Temporary licenses and receipts while you wait

If you need to drive before your new license arrives, ask whether your state issues a temporary license or receipt. Many states print a temporary paper license on the spot when you order in person, or email a digital temporary license when you order online. This temporary document is valid for 30 to 90 days, depending on your state, and allows you to drive legally while your permanent card is being mailed.

The temporary license usually has your name, license number, and expiration date, but may not have a photo. Some police officers will accept it; others may ask to see your confirmation email or receipt as well. Keep your confirmation number and email handy when you drive, just in case.

If your state doesn't offer a temporary license, ask the DMV how long processing typically takes and plan your driving accordingly. If you absolutely must drive before your new license arrives and your state doesn't issue a temporary, you may need to visit a DMV office in person to get one issued on the spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order a replacement license if my current license has expired?

Yes. You can order a replacement or duplicate even if your license is expired. However, if you want to renew your license at the same time (to extend its expiration date), you may need to complete a renewal instead of just ordering a replacement. Check your state's DMV website to see whether you should order a replacement or file for a renewal.

What if I need to change my address when I order a new license?

You can update your address during the ordering process, either online or on the paper form. Some states allow address changes online; others require you to visit a DMV office or include proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease) with your mail order. Check your state's DMV website for the address change rules before you order.

How long does it take to get a replacement license by mail?

Processing time varies by state, typically 7 to 21 days from the date the DMV receives your order. Add mailing time in both directions — usually 3 to 7 days each way. So a mail order can take 2 to 4 weeks total from the day you drop it in the mailbox. Online orders are often faster, sometimes arriving within 7 to 10 days.

Can I order a replacement license for someone else?

No. You must order your own replacement license using your own identity and signature. If someone else needs a replacement, they must order it themselves or authorize you in writing to act as their agent, which requires a notarized power of attorney in most states. Check your state's DMV rules on authorized agents before attempting this.

What if my replacement license arrives damaged or with errors?

Contact your state DMV when ready with your confirmation number and photos of the damage or error. Most states will reissue a corrected license for free if the error was made by the DMV. If the damage happened after you received it, you may need to pay a fee to order another replacement.

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.