When you need to replace your current license

You need a new driver license if your current one is lost, stolen, damaged, or expired. You also need one if your name has changed through marriage, divorce, or legal petition, or if your address has moved and your state requires an updated license. Some states issue licenses that expire every four to eight years; others renew them on a different schedule tied to your birth month or when you turn a certain age.

The process for getting a replacement is faster than getting your first license because you already have a driving record on file. Most states let you renew by mail, online, or in person at a DMV office, though the method available to you depends on why you need the replacement and what your state allows.

Key Takeaways

  • Lost, stolen, damaged, or expired licenses all require replacement through your state's DMV, and the cost and timeline vary by state.
  • Name or address changes usually require an in-person visit with proof of the change, such as a marriage certificate or utility bill.
  • Online and mail renewal are available in most states for expiration only, but not for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses.
  • You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and proof of residency or identity depending on what changed.

Replacing a lost or stolen license

If your license is lost or stolen, you must report it to your state's DMV in person or by phone, depending on what your state allows. Some states let you start the replacement process online or by mail, but most require at least one in-person visit to verify your identity and issue a new card. Bring a government-issued ID (passport, birth certificate, or state ID card) and proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease.

The DMV will issue you a replacement license with a new number in most cases. The fee for a replacement is usually lower than the fee for a new license, and it typically ranges from $10 to $50 depending on your state. Processing time is usually one to two weeks if you explore in person, though some states offer rush processing for an extra fee.

Fixing a damaged or unreadable license

A license that is torn, faded, or otherwise unreadable can be replaced at your DMV office. You do not need to report it as lost or stolen—straightforward bring the damaged card and proof of identity to your local DMV and request a replacement. The process is the same as for a lost license, and the fee is usually the same.

If your license is only slightly damaged and still readable, some states allow you to keep using it until it expires. Check your state's DMV website to see whether your specific damage qualifies for when ready replacement or whether you can wait until renewal.

Renewing an expired license

An expired license can often be renewed by mail or online if you meet your state's requirements. Most states allow mail or online renewal if your license expired within the last one to five years, you have no outstanding tickets or suspensions, and your address and name have not changed. The process is simpler than replacement for loss or damage because you do not need to visit an office or provide as much documentation.

If your license expired more than five years ago, or if you have had a suspension or revocation, you will likely need to renew in person. Some states also require an in-person visit if you are over a certain age, such as 70 or older. Check your state's DMV website to see which renewal method you are may be able to access for.

Updating your name on your license

A name change through marriage, divorce, or legal petition requires an in-person visit to your DMV office. Bring your current license, a government-issued ID showing your new name (such as a passport or court order), and proof of the name change itself. For marriage, bring your marriage certificate; for divorce, bring your divorce decree; for a legal name change, bring the court order.

Some states issue a new license with a new number when your name changes, while others update the existing card. The fee is usually $10 to $30, and processing takes one to two weeks. A few states allow you to update your name online if you have a Real ID-compliant license and a verified account on the DMV website, but this is not yet common.

Updating your address on your license

An address change can usually be handled by mail or online in most states, without visiting an office. You will need your current license number, your new address, and proof of residency at that address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. The proof must show your name and the new address, and it must be dated within the last 60 days in most states.

Some states charge a small fee for an address update ($5 to $15), while others do not charge at all. Processing time is usually one to two weeks by mail. If you update online, you may receive a temporary digital license while your physical card is printed and mailed to you.

Documents you will need for any replacement

The exact documents required depend on why you are replacing your license, but most replacements require proof of identity and proof of residency. Proof of identity can be a passport, birth certificate, Social Security card, or state ID card. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail showing your name and address.

You will also need your current license number if you have one, or your Social Security number if your license is lost or stolen. If you are replacing a license due to a name or address change, bring the document that proves the change—marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or utility bill. Some states also require a completed process form, which you can read from the DMV website or fill out at the office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive while my replacement license is being processed?

Most states issue a temporary paper license or receipt at the DMV office that you can use to drive while your new card is being printed and mailed. If you applied by mail or online, ask whether your state sends a temporary license or whether you need to visit an office to get one. Driving without any valid license or temporary document is illegal.

What if I moved to a new state—do I need a new license?

Yes, you must get a license from your new state within a set time frame, usually 30 to 60 days after moving. You can keep your old license until it expires, but you cannot legally drive with an out-of-state license once you become a resident of a new state. Bring your old license, proof of residency in the new state, and proof of identity to the new state's DMV.

How much does a replacement license cost?

The cost varies by state and by reason for replacement. A replacement for loss or damage usually costs $10 to $50, while a renewal costs $20 to $100 depending on how many years the new license is valid for. Some states charge extra for rush processing or for a Real ID-compliant license. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee.

Can I get a replacement license if I have an outstanding ticket or suspension?

You can usually get a replacement for a lost or stolen license even with an outstanding ticket, but you cannot renew an expired license if your license is suspended or revoked. If your license is suspended, you must resolve the suspension first—usually by paying a fine, completing a course, or meeting other requirements—before you can renew or replace it.