You cannot reprint a temporary Texas driver's license yourself

A temporary Texas driver's license is a paper document issued by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) at the moment you pass your test or renew in person. It is not something you can reprint from home or order online. If your temporary license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must go back to a DPS office in Texas and request a replacement in person.

The temporary license is valid for 30 days while you wait for your permanent plastic card to arrive by mail. If you lose it during that window, the DPS can issue you another paper temporary on the spot, but only if you show up at an office with proof of identity.

Key Takeaways

  • A temporary Texas driver's license cannot be reprinted online or by mail — you must visit a DPS office in person to get a replacement.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency, and a valid form of ID to the DPS office; staff will issue a new temporary on the same day.
  • The replacement temporary is valid for 30 days from the date it is issued, just like the original.
  • If your permanent plastic card has already arrived in the mail, you do not need a replacement temporary — use the card instead.

What to bring to the DPS office

When you visit a Texas DPS office to request a replacement temporary license, bring the same documents you would need for a standard license transaction. You will need proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card itself, a W-2, or a tax return), proof of Texas residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 30 days), and a valid form of ID (passport, military ID, or another state's driver's license).

You do not need to bring the damaged or lost temporary license itself. The DPS can look up your record by your name and date of birth. If you have a police report for a stolen license, bring that too — it is not required, but it documents the loss and may be useful if someone tries to use your name fraudulently.

How to find and visit a DPS office

Use the DPS office locator on the Texas Department of Public Safety website to find the nearest location. Enter your city or zip code, and the tool will show you all open offices, their hours, and whether they accept walk-ins or require an appointment. Many offices now use an online appointment system; check before you go, because some locations no longer accept customers without a scheduled time.

Bring your documents and go during business hours. The replacement temporary is printed and issued the same day. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the office is. If you schedule an appointment, you will typically be seen closer to your reserved time.

What happens after you get the replacement temporary

Your new temporary license is valid for 30 days from the date it is issued. During that time, you can drive legally in Texas and use it as proof of identity. Your permanent plastic driver's license is still being mailed to your address on file — the replacement temporary does not change that timeline.

Once your permanent card arrives, the temporary expires and you no longer need it. If your permanent card arrives before the 30 days are up, you can start using it right away. Keep the temporary in a safe place until then, in case you need it for a traffic stop or other situation where you must show proof of a valid license.

If your permanent card has already arrived

Check your mail before you go to the DPS office. If your permanent plastic driver's license has already been delivered, you do not need a replacement temporary. You can use the permanent card to drive and as ID.

If the permanent card was lost or damaged along with the temporary, that is a separate transaction — you would need to request a duplicate permanent license instead. The DPS office can help you with that request at the same visit.

Driving without a valid temporary or permanent license

If your temporary license expired and your permanent card has not arrived yet, you are not legally authorized to drive in Texas. Driving without a valid license can result in a traffic citation, fines, and other penalties. If you are in this situation, contact the DPS office where you received your original temporary to ask about the status of your permanent card.

In rare cases, the DPS can reissue a temporary if your permanent is delayed beyond the normal timeframe. Call ahead to explain your situation — the office may be able to issue another temporary without requiring you to visit in person, though this depends on the specific circumstances and the office's policies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement temporary license by mail or online?

No. The DPS only issues temporary licenses in person at a physical office. You must visit in person with your documents to receive a replacement.

What if I do not have all the documents the DPS asks for?

Contact the DPS office before you visit and ask what alternative documents they will accept. For example, if you do not have a utility bill for proof of residency, you may be able to use a bank statement or insurance document. The office can tell you what works.

How long does it take to get a replacement temporary?

The replacement is printed and issued the same day you visit the office. The appointment or wait time is usually 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the location is.

Do I need to pay a fee for a replacement temporary?

The DPS does not charge a separate fee for a replacement temporary license. You only pay if you are renewing or changing your license class, which is not the case here.

What if my permanent card is lost or damaged too?

That is a separate request. You would ask the DPS office for a duplicate permanent license, which costs a fee and is mailed to you. In the meantime, you can get a replacement temporary to drive legally.