How to Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Texas Driver's License

What You Need to Do to Replace Your Texas License

To replace a Texas driver's license, you must visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver license office in person with proof of identity and residency. You cannot renew or replace a license by mail or online. The DPS will issue you a replacement license on the same day if you have all required documents and pass the vision test — you do not need to retake the written or driving test.

The process takes about 30 minutes at most offices, though wait times vary by location and time of day. You will pay a replacement fee (currently $16 for a standard license, though fees can change). If your license was stolen, you should also file a police report, though the DPS does not require it to issue a replacement.

The type of replacement you need depends on why you are replacing the license. A lost or stolen license requires a standard replacement. A damaged or worn license can sometimes be handled as a renewal instead, which costs less. A license that was suspended or revoked requires different steps and cannot be replaced until the suspension or revocation is lifted.

Key Takeaways

You must go to a DPS driver license office in person with a valid ID and proof of Texas residency; no online or mail replacements are available.
Bring one primary identity document (passport, birth certificate, or military ID) and one proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days).
The replacement fee is $16 for a standard license, and you will receive your new license the same day if all documents are correct.
If your license was stolen, file a police report separately; the DPS does not require it but it protects you from fraud.
If your license is damaged but not lost, ask the DPS whether you can renew instead of replace, as renewal costs less.

Documents You Must Bring to the DPS Office

The DPS requires one primary identity document and one proof of residency. Your primary identity document must be an original or certified copy — photocopies are not accepted. Acceptable primary documents include a U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, military ID, permanent resident card (green card), or visa with I-94 arrival/departure record.

Your proof of residency must show your current Texas address and be dated within 90 days of your visit. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank or credit card statement, insurance policy, or government mail (such as a tax return or jury summons). A utility bill in your name is the fastest option because it is recognized when ready at every office.

If you do not have a primary identity document, you can bring two secondary documents instead. Secondary documents include a Social Security card, school ID, employee ID, or insurance card. However, this route takes longer and some offices may ask you to return with a primary document. Bring originals; the DPS will not accept photocopies of secondary documents either.

Steps to Replace Your License at a DPS Office

First, locate the DPS driver license office nearest you. You can find the full list and hours on the Texas DPS website. Some offices accept walk-ins only; others allow you to reserve a time slot online. Reserving a slot usually cuts your wait time in half, so check whether your local office offers this option before you go.

When you arrive, bring your documents to the front desk. A staff member will check that your identity and residency documents are acceptable. If they are, you will fill out form DL-43 (process for Texas Driver License). This form asks for your name, address, date of birth, and whether you want to update any information from your old license. You will also declare whether you have any medical conditions that affect your ability to drive safely.

Next, you will take a vision test. This is a straightforward check to make sure you can see well enough to drive. You do not need to study or prepare. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them and wear them during the test. After the vision test, a staff member will take your photograph and fingerprints. Your new license will be printed on the spot. You will receive it before you leave the office.

What Happens If You Lost Your License Out of State

If you lost your Texas license while you were out of state, you still must replace it in person at a Texas DPS office. You cannot replace it by mail or through another state's DMV. However, if you are currently living out of state temporarily, you may be able to request a duplicate by mail in some cases — call the DPS at 1-888-589-6556 to ask whether your situation qualifies.

If your license expired while you were out of state, you will need to renew it rather than replace it. Renewal requires the same in-person visit and documents, but the fee is lower ($25 for a five-year renewal). Bring your expired license with you to the office so the staff can see your history.

Replacing a License That Was Suspended or Revoked

If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot replace it until the suspension or revocation is lifted. The DPS will tell you when ready if this is the case when you try to explore. You must first resolve the reason for the suspension or revocation — this might mean paying traffic fines, completing a defensive driving course, or waiting out a mandatory suspension period.

Once the suspension or revocation is cleared, you can return to the DPS office and replace your license using the same process described above. Bring proof that the suspension or revocation has been lifted. This might be a letter from the DPS, a court document, or a receipt showing that fines have been paid. Call the DPS at 1-888-589-6556 if you are unsure whether your suspension has been cleared.

Replacing a Damaged or Worn License

If your license is damaged but still readable, you may be able to renew it instead of replacing it. Renewal costs $25 for a five-year license and $31 for an eight-year license, whereas replacement costs $16. The difference matters if your license is not yet expired. Ask the DPS staff when you arrive whether your situation qualifies as a renewal or a replacement.

Bring your damaged license with you to the office. If the license is so damaged that your photograph or information cannot be read, the DPS will treat it as a replacement rather than a renewal, and you will pay the replacement fee. If the damage is minor — a small tear, faded color, or worn edges — the staff may allow you to renew, which saves you money.

What to Do If Your License Was Stolen

If your license was stolen, file a police report with your local police department or sheriff's office. This creates an official record and protects you if someone tries to use your license fraudulently. You do not need the police report to replace your license at the DPS, but having one on file is important for your protection.

When you replace your stolen license, the DPS will issue a new license number. Your old license number will no longer be valid. This means that if someone tries to use your old license, it will be flagged as invalid. After you receive your new license, monitor your credit report and watch for any fraudulent activity in your name. You can request a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus once per year at annualcreditreport.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license if I do not have a birth certificate or passport?

Yes. If you do not have a primary identity document, bring two secondary documents instead, such as a Social Security card and school or employee ID. However, some offices may ask you to return with a primary document. Call ahead to ask whether your local office will accept secondary documents only.

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

The DPS does not mail replacement licenses. You receive your new license in person at the office on the same day you explore. If you cannot pick it up in person, you cannot replace your license through the DPS.

What if I moved and my proof of residency is from my old address?

Your proof of residency must show your current Texas address. If you just moved, bring a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement from your new address dated within 90 days. If you do not have one yet, bring a piece of government mail (such as a tax return or jury summons) sent to your new address.

Do I have to retake the written test or driving test to replace my license?

No. Replacement does not require a written or driving test. You only need to pass the vision test. The DPS assumes you already know how to drive since you held a valid license before.

What if the DPS office says my documents are not acceptable?

Ask the staff which documents they need instead. If you are unsure whether your documents will work, call the DPS at 1-888-589-6556 before you go to the office. Staff can tell you over the phone whether your specific documents meet the requirements for your situation.

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.