How to Order a Replacement Texas Driver's License Online or by Mail

Order online through the Texas DPS website or by mail if you cannot go in person

You can replace a lost Texas driver's license without visiting a DPS office by ordering through the Texas Department of Public Safety website or requesting a replacement by mail. The online method is faster — you can order and pay in minutes, and your new license arrives in about 7 to 10 business days. The mail method takes longer but works if you do not have internet access or prefer not to use a credit or debit card online.

Both methods require you to have your Social Security number, date of birth, and the driver's license number you want to replace (if you remember it). You will also need a valid payment method — a credit card, debit card, or electronic check for online orders, or a check or money order for mail requests.

The replacement fee is $16 for a standard license that expires on your current expiration date. If you want to renew your license at the same time — extending it for another 8 years — the cost is $33. Most people ordering a replacement pay only the $16 fee unless their license is expiring within the next few months.

Key Takeaways

Order online at the Texas DPS website (dps.texas.gov) using your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a credit or debit card.
Your replacement license arrives in 7 to 10 business days if you order online, or 2 to 3 weeks if you mail in a request form.
The replacement fee is $16 if your license is not expiring soon, or $33 if you want to renew it at the same time.
You do not need to visit a DPS office or provide a new photo — your replacement uses the photo from your current license record.
If you do not have your license number, you can call the DPS at 1-888-589-6556 to look it up before ordering.

Ordering online through the DPS website

Go to dps.texas.gov and look for the "Driver License" section. Select "Order a Replacement License" or "Renew Your License" depending on whether you also want to extend your license term. You will be taken to a form that asks for your driver's license number, date of birth, and Social Security number.

Enter your information exactly as it appears on your current or lost license. If you do not remember your license number, you can look it up by calling the DPS Customer Service line at 1-888-589-6556. Have your name, date of birth, and Social Security number ready when you call.

After you submit your information, the system will confirm your identity and show you the fee. Pay with a credit card or debit card. You will receive a confirmation number and an estimated delivery date. Write down or save the confirmation number — you can use it to track your replacement license.

Your new license will be mailed to the address on file with the DPS. If you have moved since your last license was issued, update your address with the DPS before ordering, or your replacement will go to your old address. You can update your address on the same DPS website before you order the replacement.

Ordering by mail if you cannot use the website

read the "process for a Duplicate Driver License" form (Form DL-44) from the DPS website, or call 1-888-589-6556 and ask them to mail you the form. Fill out the form with your name, date of birth, driver's license number, and current address. Sign and date it.

Write a check or money order for $16 (or $33 if you are renewing at the same time). Make it payable to "Texas Department of Public Safety." Do not send cash.

Mail the completed form and payment to:

Texas Department of Public Safety Driver License Division P.O. Box 15888 Austin, TX 78761-5888

Mail requests take 2 to 3 weeks to process, plus delivery time. Your replacement license will be mailed to the address you list on the form. Keep a copy of the form and your confirmation for your records.

What happens if you do not have your license number

If you lost your license and do not remember the number, call the DPS at 1-888-589-6556. Have your full name, date of birth, and Social Security number ready. The DPS can look up your license number in their system and give it to you over the phone. This usually takes a few minutes.

Once you have your license number, you can proceed with the online order or mail request. If you are ordering online and the system will not accept your information, try calling the DPS again — there may be a flag on your record that needs to be cleared first.

Tracking your replacement license

If you ordered online, use your confirmation number to check the status of your replacement on the DPS website. The tracking tool shows whether your license has been printed, shipped, or delivered. Most online orders arrive within 7 to 10 business days, but weather, mail delays, or high order volume can add a few extra days.

If you ordered by mail, you will not have a tracking number. Mail requests typically arrive 2 to 3 weeks after the DPS receives your form. If your replacement does not arrive within 4 weeks of mailing, call the DPS to confirm they received your request.

What to do if your replacement does not arrive

If your license does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact the DPS at 1-888-589-6556. Have your confirmation number (if you ordered online) or the date you mailed your form ready. The DPS can check whether your order was processed and resend it if needed.

If your replacement was lost in the mail, the DPS may issue a replacement at no additional cost, depending on how long ago you ordered. If too much time has passed, you may need to pay the $16 fee again and place a new order.

In the meantime, you can request a temporary driving permit from a DPS office if you need to drive before your replacement arrives. A temporary permit is valid for 45 days and costs $11. You can also ask a DPS office to print an interim license on the spot for $5, which is valid for 30 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a new photo for my replacement license?

No. Your replacement license uses the photo from your current license record. You only need a new photo if your license is expiring and you are renewing it at the same time, or if the DPS asks you to provide one due to a quality issue with your existing photo.

Can I order a replacement if my license has expired?

Yes, you can order a replacement of an expired license for $16. However, if your license expired more than 2 years ago, you may need to visit a DPS office in person to renew it instead of ordering by mail or online. Call 1-888-589-6556 to confirm whether you can order a replacement or must renew in person.

What if my address has changed since I lost my license?

Update your address on the DPS website before you order your replacement, or write your new address clearly on the mail form. Your replacement will be sent to the address you provide, not the one on file. If you forget to update it and your replacement goes to your old address, contact the DPS and they can remail it to your current address.

How much does it cost to order a replacement license?

A replacement license costs $16 if your current license is not expiring soon. If you want to renew your license at the same time — extending it for another 8 years — the cost is $33. Temporary permits and interim licenses have separate fees ($11 and $5, respectively) and are only available in person at a DPS office.

Can someone else order a replacement license for me?

No. You must order your own replacement using your personal information and payment method. A family member or friend cannot order it for you, even with your permission. However, they can help you fill out the form or guide you through the online process.

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.