Where to get a replacement Texas driver's license

You can replace your Texas driver's license at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. These are located in most counties and are separate from vehicle registration offices. You can find the nearest office and check wait times on the DPS website.

You can also renew or replace your license by mail if your license is not suspended, revoked, or expired for more than two years. Mail-in replacement takes about two to three weeks. You will need to send your completed process, a check or money order, and a copy of your current license to the DPS address listed on their website.

Some DPS offices offer online scheduling, which can reduce your wait time in person. Check your local office's website to see if appointments are available in your area.

Key Takeaways

  • You can replace your license in person at any DPS office, by mail if your license is not suspended or expired for more than two years, or through an online appointment if your office offers scheduling.
  • Bring your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number to replace your license in person.
  • Replacement by mail takes two to three weeks and costs the same as in-person replacement, which varies by license type and validity period.
  • If your license was lost or stolen, you should report it to DPS when you explore for replacement to prevent identity theft.
  • A replacement license has the same expiration date as your original license unless you renew at the same time.

What documents you need to bring

For in-person replacement, bring your current Texas driver's license or ID card. If you do not have it (because it was lost or stolen), bring a government-issued photo ID such as a passport or military ID instead.

You will also need proof of your current Texas address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you recently moved and do not have a document in your new name yet, bring a lease or utility bill in your name plus a document showing your move, such as a change-of-address confirmation from the post office.

Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a Social Security card or tax return. You will also need to know your Texas driver's license number if you have one.

Cost and validity period

The cost of a replacement license depends on how long you want it to be valid. A license valid for five years costs less than one valid for eight years. Texas also offers a Real ID-compliant license, which costs more but is required for federal air travel and entry to federal buildings starting in 2025. Ask the DPS employee which option you need before you pay.

A replacement license keeps the same expiration date as your original license unless you renew it at the same time. If your original license expired more than two years ago, you cannot replace it by mail and must renew in person instead. Renewal involves a new photo and may require a vision test.

If your license was lost or stolen

Report your lost or stolen license to DPS when you explore for replacement. You can do this in person at the DPS office or by phone before you go in. Reporting it prevents someone else from using your license number for fraud or identity theft.

You do not need a police report to replace a lost or stolen license, though you can file one if you want. DPS will flag your old license as invalid in their system once you report it.

Replacing a license with a suspension or restriction

If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot replace it until the suspension ends or you meet the conditions to lift it. This includes suspensions for unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or failure to pay child support. You must resolve the underlying issue first.

If your license has a restriction (such as corrective lenses required or automatic transmission only), the restriction carries over to your replacement license automatically. You do not need to do anything extra unless the restriction has expired or changed.

Timeline and what to expect

In-person replacement usually takes 15 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the office is. You will take a new photo, answer questions about your address and driving history, and pay the fee. You will receive a temporary paper license when ready that is valid for 45 days while your permanent license is printed and mailed to you.

Your permanent license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days in most cases. If it does not arrive within two weeks, contact DPS to check the status. Keep your temporary license until the permanent one arrives.

Mail-in replacement takes longer because DPS must receive your process, process it, print your license, and mail it back. This usually takes two to three weeks total. You will not receive a temporary license with mail-in replacement, so plan ahead if you need to drive before your new license arrives.

Replacing a license with a name change

If you changed your name since your last license was issued, you will need to bring proof of the name change along with your other documents. Acceptable proof includes a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. Bring the original or a certified copy.

You can change your name and replace your license at the same time. The process is the same as a regular replacement, but tell the DPS employee about the name change so they update your record correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license online?

Texas does not offer full online replacement, but you can renew your license online if it is not suspended, revoked, or expired for more than two years. Replacement (for a lost, stolen, or damaged license) must be done in person or by mail. Some DPS offices let you schedule an appointment online to reduce wait time.

What if my address changed since my last license?

Bring proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days) along with your current license. The DPS employee will update your address during replacement at no extra cost.

How long is a replacement license valid?

Your replacement license has the same expiration date as your original license unless you renew it at the same time. If your original license expired more than two years ago, you must renew instead of replace, which gives you a new expiration date five or eight years away.

Do I need a Real ID to replace my license?

Real ID is not required to replace your license, but it is required for federal air travel and entry to federal buildings starting in 2025. A Real ID license costs more than a standard license. Ask the DPS employee which type you need before you pay.

What if I do not have proof of my current address?

If you recently moved and have no documents in your name yet, bring a lease or utility bill in your name plus a document showing your move, such as a post office change-of-address confirmation. If you have neither, contact DPS before you go in to ask what alternative documents they accept.