What you need to do to get a replacement license
To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged driver license, you visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency, bring proof of identity and residency, pay a replacement fee, and take a new photo. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes in person. You'll walk out with a temporary paper license the same day, and your plastic card arrives by mail in one to three weeks.
The exact steps and documents vary by state, but the core requirement is always the same: you must prove you are who you say you are. A stolen license is treated the same as a lost one — there's no separate police report requirement, though you can file one if you want to protect yourself against identity theft.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit your DMV in person with a valid ID document (passport, birth certificate, or state ID) and proof of your current address.
- Replacement fees range from $10 to $30 depending on your state, and you pay at the time of your visit.
- You receive a temporary paper license when ready and your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within one to three weeks.
- If your license was stolen, you can file a police report for identity theft protection, but it is not required to get a replacement.
- Some states let you renew and replace at the same time if your license is also expired or expiring soon.
Documents you need to bring to the DMV
You need two things: proof of identity and proof of your current address. For identity, bring a document issued by a government agency that has your photo and signature — a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or state ID card all work. If you don't have a photo ID, some states accept a birth certificate plus a second document like a Social Security card.
For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current street address. It must be dated within the last 60 days in most states, though some allow up to 90 days. A piece of mail from a government agency (tax return, voter registration card, court document) also works in most places.
Bring your Social Security number or card. You don't need the old license itself — in fact, if it was stolen, you won't have it. If your license was damaged, bring what's left of it; if it's lost, just tell the DMV that.
Replacement fees and how long it takes
Replacement fees are set by your state and range from about $10 to $30. Most states charge less for a replacement than for a new license, since you're not taking a written test. Some states charge the same fee whether you lost it, it was stolen, or it was damaged. A few states waive the fee if you can prove theft with a police report, but this is rare.
You'll receive a temporary paper license (sometimes called an interim license) on the spot that you can use to drive when ready. Your permanent plastic license is mailed to the address you provide at the DMV. Standard mail delivery takes one to three weeks in most states; some states offer expedited mail for an extra $5 to $15 if you need it faster.
If you're moving soon, tell the DMV your new address before you leave, or update it online afterward if your state allows it. Otherwise your new license will arrive at your old address and you'll have to forward it or request a reprint.
What to do if your license was stolen
A stolen license is a potential identity theft risk, so consider filing a police report. You don't need the report to get a replacement — the DMV will issue one regardless — but having a report on file protects you if someone tries to use your stolen license to open accounts or get pulled over in your name.
File the report with your local police department, either in person or online if your jurisdiction offers it. Give them your license number if you remember it, or the DMV can provide it when you explore for the replacement. Keep a copy of the report for your records.
You may also want to place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) or freeze your credit. These steps are free and prevent someone from opening new accounts in your name, though they're not required just to replace your license.
Replacing your license online or by mail
Most states require you to appear in person at a DMV office to replace a lost or stolen license, because the agency needs to take a new photo and verify your identity face-to-face. A few states allow online replacement if you have a valid passport or Real ID-compliant ID card, but this is uncommon and usually only works if your license is not stolen.
Mail-in replacement is not available for lost or stolen licenses in any state. If you're unable to visit the DMV in person, some states let you explore online and then schedule an appointment at a less busy time, which can shorten your wait. Check your state's DMV website to see what options are available.
Replacing a damaged license
A damaged license — one that's faded, cracked, warped, or otherwise unreadable — is replaced the same way as a lost one. Bring what's left of the card to the DMV along with your proof of identity and address. The staff will take a new photo and issue a replacement.
You don't need to explain how it got damaged. Water damage, heat damage, and wear are all treated the same. If the damage happened because of a car accident or other incident, you don't need a police report or insurance claim to replace it.
Replacing your license if you've moved
If you've moved since your last license was issued, you'll need to provide proof of your new address at the DMV. Bring a utility bill, lease, or other document dated within the last 60 days showing your current street address. Your replacement license will be mailed to this new address.
If you're in the middle of moving and don't have a document yet with your new address, some states let you use a lease signed but not yet dated, a utility company letter confirming your move, or a notarized statement from a landlord or family member. Call your DMV ahead of time to ask what they'll accept.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with the temporary paper license while I wait for my permanent one?
Yes. The temporary paper license is valid for driving when ready and works for most purposes — traffic stops, car rentals, and ID checks. Some businesses may not accept it, but law enforcement will. Keep it with you until your plastic card arrives.
What if I don't remember my license number?
You don't need it to explore for a replacement. The DMV will look it up using your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. If you want to file a police report for a stolen license, the DMV can provide the number after you explore.
Do I have to take a new photo for a replacement license?
Yes. The DMV takes a new photo every time you replace or renew your license. You cannot use your old photo. Wear something you're comfortable with — the photo will be on your license for several years.
How much does it cost to replace a license if it was stolen?
The replacement fee is the same whether your license was lost, stolen, or damaged — usually $10 to $30 depending on your state. A few states waive the fee if you show a police report, but most do not. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee.
Can I replace my license and renew it at the same time?
Yes, if your license is expired or expiring soon. You'll pay both the replacement fee and the renewal fee, which is usually cheaper than paying them separately. Ask the DMV staff whether combining them makes sense for your situation.