What to do when ready after losing your Missouri driver's license
If your Missouri driver's license is lost, you need to report it to the Missouri Department of Revenue and request a replacement. You do not have to wait to find it — reporting it lost protects you from identity theft if someone else finds it and tries to use it. The fastest way is to go in person to any Missouri license office with proof of identity and residency, but you can also report the loss by mail or phone first if you need time to gather documents.
Missouri does not charge you for the first replacement if you report the license lost within a certain timeframe, though the exact rules depend on when your license was issued and whether you have replaced it before. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number, proof that you live in Missouri (like a utility bill or lease), and a form of ID that shows your face — even an expired passport works. If you do not have these documents yet, the license office staff can tell you what alternatives they accept.
Key Takeaways
- Report your lost license to the Missouri Department of Revenue in person, by phone, or by mail to prevent someone else from using it.
- You will need proof of identity (Social Security card or number), proof of Missouri residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and a photo ID to get a replacement.
- The first replacement is free if you report the loss within the timeframe set by Missouri; replacements after that cost a fee that varies by license type.
- A replacement license takes about two weeks by mail or is issued the same day if you go to a license office in person.
- You can drive legally while your replacement is being processed if you have a receipt from the license office showing you reported the loss.
Where to report a lost Missouri driver's license
The Missouri Department of Revenue handles all lost license reports. You have three ways to report: visit a local license office in person, call the Missouri Driver Services hotline, or mail a form to the state office. The phone number and mailing address are on the Missouri Department of Revenue website under "Driver Services."
Going in person is fastest because you can get your replacement the same day if you have all your documents. License offices are located in most counties; you can find the one nearest you on the state website. If you call or mail your report, the state will send you a form to fill out and return, which adds time to the process. Many people report the loss by phone or mail first, then go in person to the office with their documents when they are ready.
Documents you need to bring
Missouri requires three types of documents: proof of your Social Security number, proof that you live in Missouri, and a photo ID. Your Social Security card itself is the easiest proof, but you can also bring a W-2 form, tax return, or bank statement that shows your number. If you do not have any of these, tell the license office staff — they may accept other documents.
For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current Missouri address. The document must be recent — usually within the last 60 days. A photo ID can be an expired passport, military ID, or any government-issued ID with your picture on it. If your lost license was your only photo ID, ask the license office what they can accept instead; some offices will work with you if you bring multiple documents that together prove who you are.
Cost and timeline for a replacement license
Missouri covers the cost of your first replacement if you report the loss within a set period. After that, replacement licenses cost money — the exact fee depends on whether you are replacing a regular license, a commercial driver's license (CDL), or a motorcycle endorsement. The state website lists current fees, which change occasionally.
If you go to a license office in person with all your documents, you will receive your replacement the same day. If you mail your report and documents, expect the new license to arrive in about two weeks. Some people choose to get a temporary paper license at the office while they wait, though Missouri does not always issue these — ask when you report the loss.
Driving legally while your replacement is being processed
You can drive legally while your replacement license is on the way. The receipt you get from the license office when you report the loss serves as proof that you have requested a replacement. Keep this receipt in your vehicle along with your vehicle registration and insurance card. If a police officer stops you, show them the receipt and explain that your license was lost and a replacement is being processed.
This protection applies only if you have actually reported the loss to the Missouri Department of Revenue. If you have not reported it yet and are driving without a license, you can be cited. The receipt is your proof that you took action, so do not lose it.
Protecting yourself from identity theft after losing your license
A lost driver's license is a real identity theft risk because it contains your name, address, date of birth, and license number — information that can be used to open accounts or commit fraud. Beyond reporting it to the Department of Revenue, consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.
You can also check your credit report for free once a year at annualcreditreport.com to watch for accounts you did not open. If you see suspicious activity, contact the credit bureau and the company where the fraud occurred. Reporting the lost license to the state is your first step, but these extra precautions give you more protection if someone tries to use your information.
What happens if you find your license after reporting it lost
If you find your original license after you have reported it lost and received a replacement, you do not need to do anything. You can keep both licenses, though only one is valid for driving. Some people keep the original as a backup in case the replacement is lost later. You do not have to return the original to the state.
If you prefer not to keep both, you can destroy the original yourself or turn it in to any Missouri license office. There is no penalty for keeping it, and the state will not ask you to return it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my replacement?
Missouri does not automatically issue temporary licenses, but some offices may provide a paper receipt or temporary document that shows you have reported the loss and requested a replacement. Ask the staff at your license office whether they offer this. If they do, keep it with your vehicle registration and insurance while you drive.
What if I lost my license out of state?
You still report the loss to the Missouri Department of Revenue the same way — in person at a Missouri license office, by phone, or by mail. If you are out of state and cannot visit an office, call or mail your report. You can then pick up your replacement at a Missouri license office when you return, or have it mailed to you.
Do I have to pay for a replacement if I lost my license twice?
Missouri covers the cost of your first replacement. If you lose your license a second time, you will have to pay a replacement fee. The exact amount depends on your license type and is listed on the Missouri Department of Revenue website. Some people choose to get a duplicate license made at the same time as their replacement to avoid this cost later.
Can I get a duplicate license at the same time as my replacement?
Yes. When you go to the license office to report your lost license, you can ask for a duplicate at the same time. This costs extra, but it gives you a backup if your replacement is lost later. You will receive both licenses the same day if you go in person.
What if my address changed since my lost license was issued?
Bring proof of your current Missouri address to the license office. Your replacement will show your new address. If you have not updated your address with the state yet, do that at the same time you report the lost license — the staff can help you with both in one visit.