What you need to do to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Texas driver's license

You can replace a Texas driver's license in person at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, by mail, or online through the Texas DPS website — but the method depends on why you need it replaced and whether your license is still valid. If your license was lost or stolen, you'll report it and request a duplicate. If it's damaged, you can exchange it. If it's expired, you'll need to renew it instead, which involves a vision test and updated information. The fastest route is usually online if your license hasn't expired and you have a valid Real ID or passport to verify your identity.

Texas DPS charges $11 for a replacement if your license is current, and the new card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. If your license expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person instead, which costs $33 and requires a vision test. The method you choose also depends on whether you still have your old license and how quickly you need to drive.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas DPS lets you replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license online, by mail, or in person, depending on your license status and what documents you have.
  • An online replacement costs $11 and takes about 7 to 10 business days if your license is current and you can verify your identity with Real ID or a passport.
  • If your license has expired, you must renew it in person at a DPS office, which requires a vision test and costs $33 for a standard license.
  • Reporting a stolen license to DPS prevents someone else from using it, and you should also contact your bank and credit card companies if your Social Security number is at risk.
  • Mail-in replacement takes 2 to 3 weeks and requires you to send in your old license if you have it, along with a completed form and payment.

Replacing online: the fastest option if your license is current

The Texas DPS online replacement system works only if your driver's license hasn't expired and you can verify your identity with a Real ID, passport, or military ID. You'll go to the Texas DPS website, select "Replace License," and answer questions about why you need it replaced. You'll upload a photo of yourself and pay $11 by credit or debit card. The new license will arrive in about 7 to 10 business days.

This method does not work if your license expired more than two years ago, if you've changed your name since it was issued, or if you need to update your address. In those cases, you must renew in person instead. Online replacement also requires you to have a working email address and a device with a camera to take your photo.

Replacing by mail: slower but no office visit required

You can mail in a replacement request if you have your old license or a copy of it. Fill out Form DL-43 (Duplicate Driver License), include a copy of your old license front and back, and mail it with a check or money order for $11 to the DPS address listed on the form. Include a photo of yourself if you don't have a current one on file. You can find the correct mailing address and the form itself on the Texas DPS website.

Mail-in replacement takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date DPS receives your envelope. If you're mailing from outside Texas, add extra time for postal delivery. You can track your process status on the Texas DPS website once it's been processed. Keep a copy of what you mail in case you need to follow up.

Replacing in person at a DPS office: when you need it done quickly

Walk into any DPS office with your Social Security number, proof of Texas residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and proof of identity (passport, military ID, or current Real ID). Tell the clerk you need a duplicate or replacement. You'll have your photo taken, pay $11, and receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your permanent card arrives in 7 to 10 business days.

If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot get a duplicate — you must renew instead, which takes longer and costs $33. Bring the same documents, but also expect a vision test and updated information questions. Some offices take walk-ins; others require an appointment. Check the DPS office locator on their website to see hours and whether your nearest office books appointments online.

What to do if your license was stolen

Report the theft to DPS as soon as you know it's gone. You can do this online through the Texas DPS website, by phone at 1-888-589-6556, or in person at any DPS office. DPS will flag your license number so it cannot be used by someone else. This step is important because a stolen license with your name and address can be used for fraud or identity theft.

After reporting to DPS, contact your bank, credit card companies, and the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) if your Social Security number was on the license or if you're concerned about identity theft. You may want to place a fraud alert or credit freeze on your accounts. Then follow the replacement steps above to get a new license. Keep a record of when you reported the theft in case questions come up later.

Replacing a damaged license

If your license is still readable but physically damaged — cracked, faded, or water-damaged — you can exchange it for a replacement at any DPS office. Bring your damaged license, proof of residency, and $11. You'll get a temporary paper license when ready and your new card in 7 to 10 business days. You can also mail in a damaged license with Form DL-43 and payment, though this takes longer.

If your license is so damaged that DPS cannot read your information, bring it anyway — the clerk can look up your record in the system. You will not be charged twice if the damage was not your fault (for example, if it was damaged in a flood or fire). DPS may ask you to describe what happened to the license.

Renewing instead of replacing: when your license has expired

If your license expired more than two years ago, Texas law requires you to renew it rather than straightforward replace it. Renewal means you must appear in person at a DPS office for a vision test and updated information. You'll need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The cost is $33 for a standard five-year license or $66 for an eight-year license. The process takes about 30 minutes, and you'll receive a temporary paper license and your permanent card in 7 to 10 business days.

If your license expired fewer than two years ago, you can still renew online or by mail without a vision test, which is faster. Check the expiration date on your license before you start the replacement process so you know which route to take. The expiration date is printed on the front of your card.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a replacement license take to arrive?

A replacement license typically arrives in 7 to 10 business days after DPS processes your request. If you replace in person, you get a temporary paper license the same day. Mail-in replacement takes 2 to 3 weeks because of postal delivery time.

Can I drive with a temporary paper license while I wait for my replacement?

Yes. The temporary paper license issued in person or by mail is valid for driving in Texas and nationwide. Keep it with you until your permanent card arrives.

What if I lost my license and don't have a copy of it?

You don't need a copy of your old license to replace it. Go to a DPS office with your Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of identity. The clerk will look up your record in the system and issue a replacement.

Do I have to pay again if DPS loses my replacement in the mail?

No. If DPS confirms that your replacement was lost in transit, they will reissue it at no additional charge. You can check the status of your license on the Texas DPS website.

Can I replace my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or warrant?

Yes. An outstanding ticket or warrant does not prevent you from replacing your license. However, DPS may flag your record, and you should resolve the ticket or warrant separately through the court that issued it.