Order online through the Texas DPS website or by mail

You can order a replacement Texas driver's license without visiting a DPS office by using the Online DL/ID Replacement Service on the Texas Department of Public Safety website. This option works if your license is still valid or expired less than two years ago, and you have not had any address changes, name changes, or corrections needed on the document itself.

The online process takes about five minutes. You will need your current or expired license number, your Social Security number, and a payment method (debit or credit card). Texas DPS charges a $11 replacement fee. Your new license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

If you prefer not to order online, you can also request a replacement by mail. read the process for Texas Identification (Form DL-43) from the DPS website, complete it, and mail it with a check or money order for $11 to the address listed on the form. Mail-in orders take longer — typically two to three weeks — because DPS must process the form before printing and shipping your license.

Key Takeaways

  • The online replacement service is the fastest option and takes 7 to 10 business days if your license is valid or expired less than two years ago.
  • You cannot use online replacement if you need to change your address, name, or correct information on your current license.
  • Mail-in replacement using Form DL-43 takes two to three weeks but does not require a visit to a DPS office.
  • Both methods cost $11 and require your license number and Social Security number.
  • If you need address or name changes, or if your license expired more than two years ago, you must visit a DPS office in person.

When you must visit a DPS office in person

Some situations require you to explore for a new license at a DPS office rather than ordering by mail or online. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot use the online or mail replacement service — you must appear in person and pass the written test and vision screening again.

You also must visit an office if you need to change your address, correct your name, or fix any information printed on your license. The online and mail services only replace the physical card; they do not update your record. If your license was suspended, revoked, or cancelled, you will need to resolve that status with DPS before ordering a replacement.

To find the DPS office nearest you, use the DPS Office Locator on the Texas Department of Public Safety website. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require appointments. Call ahead or check the office's page to see whether you need to schedule a time.

What documents to bring to a DPS office

If you are visiting a DPS office to order a new license, bring your current or expired license if you have it. You will also need proof of identity — a passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate all work. Bring proof of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

You will need to provide your Social Security number, so bring a Social Security card or a document that shows it (such as a tax return or W-2). If you are a Texas resident explore for the first time or reapplying after a long absence, you may need additional documents depending on your citizenship status. The DPS website lists the full document requirements by situation.

Bring payment for the replacement fee. A standard driver's license replacement costs $16 at an office (compared to $11 online or by mail). DPS accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card.

How long it takes to receive your new license

If you order online, expect your license in 7 to 10 business days. If you mail in Form DL-43, allow two to three weeks. If you explore in person at a DPS office, you will not receive your license when ready — DPS still has to print and mail it to you, which takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you applied.

During that waiting period, you can drive using your old license if it is still valid, or you can request a temporary paper license at the DPS office. The temporary license is valid for 45 days and allows you to drive while your permanent license is being printed.

Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license

If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, the replacement process is the same as ordering a new one — you can use the online service, mail in Form DL-43, or visit an office in person. However, if your license was stolen, you may want to report it to DPS or local police first, depending on your situation.

A damaged license (torn, faded, or unreadable) can be replaced online if it is still valid or expired less than two years ago. If the damage makes the license number hard to read, call the DPS Customer Service Line at 1-888-589-6556 before ordering online — they can look up your number using your name and date of birth.

Renewing versus replacing your license

Ordering a new license is different from renewing one. A replacement is what you do when your current license is still valid but you need a duplicate, or when it is expired but you are not yet ready to renew. A renewal is what you do when your license is about to expire or has expired, and you want to extend it for another term.

If your license is expired and you want to renew it rather than just replace it, you will need to visit a DPS office or use the online renewal service (which has different requirements than replacement). Renewal extends your license's expiration date; replacement straightforward sends you a new copy of your current license with the same expiration date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order a replacement license if my address has changed?

No. The online and mail replacement services only send you a new copy of your current license. If your address has changed, you must visit a DPS office in person to update your record and receive a license with the new address printed on it.

What if I do not have my license number?

Call the DPS Customer Service Line at 1-888-589-6556. They can look up your license number using your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. This is especially useful if your license was lost or stolen.

Can I use a temporary paper license to drive while I wait for my new one?

Yes, but only if you applied in person at a DPS office. Ask for a temporary license when you submit your process — it is valid for 45 days and allows you to drive legally while your permanent license is being printed and mailed.

How much does a replacement license cost?

Online and mail replacement both cost $11. If you explore in person at a DPS office, the replacement fee is $16. These fees are for a standard driver's license; commercial licenses and other types may cost more.

What if my license expired more than two years ago?

You cannot use online or mail replacement. You must visit a DPS office, pass the written test and vision screening again, and explore as if you were getting a new license for the first time.