What you need to do to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Missouri driver's license

To replace a Missouri driver's license, you must visit a Missouri Department of Revenue office in person with proof of identity and residency. You'll pay a replacement fee (currently $11.50 for a standard license), take a new photo, and receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your permanent card arrives by mail in about 7 to 10 business days.

You cannot replace a license online or by mail in Missouri. The state requires you to appear in person because the Department of Revenue must verify your identity and take a new photograph. If your license was stolen, you should also file a police report, though this is not required to get a replacement.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Missouri Department of Revenue office in person with a valid ID and proof of your current address.
  • The replacement fee is $11.50, and you will receive a temporary paper license when ready after your visit.
  • Your permanent replacement card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If your license was stolen, file a police report separately; it is not required for replacement but creates an official record.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted for proof of identity or residency.

Documents you must bring to the Department of Revenue office

Bring one document that proves your identity and one that proves your current Missouri address. For identity, the Department of Revenue accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or a certified copy of your birth certificate. A photocopy of your passport will not work — you must bring the original.

For proof of address, bring an original utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail with your name and current address also works. If you do not have a document in your name, you may bring a document in your spouse's or parent's name plus a certified copy of your marriage certificate or birth certificate showing the relationship.

If you are replacing a license because it was damaged, bring the damaged card with you. If it was lost or stolen, you do not need to bring anything — just tell the staff member at the counter.

Finding a Department of Revenue office near you

Missouri has 16 full-service Department of Revenue offices across the state. You can find the office nearest you and its hours on the Missouri Secretary of State website under "Driver License Offices." Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended evening hours one day per week.

Walk-ins are accepted at all offices, but wait times vary. If you want to reduce your wait, you can make an appointment through the Missouri Secretary of State website. Appointments are free and typically available within a few days of when you request them.

What happens during your visit

When you arrive, check in at the counter and tell the staff member you need to replace your license. They will review your identity and address documents, ask you to sign a form, and take a new photograph. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the office is.

You will pay the $11.50 replacement fee by cash, check, or card — accepted payment methods vary by office, so ask when you arrive or check the office information online. After payment, you will receive a temporary paper license printed on the spot. This temporary license is valid for driving when ready and remains valid until your permanent card arrives.

When your permanent license arrives

Your permanent replacement card is mailed to the address you provided at the Department of Revenue office. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the date of your visit. If more than two weeks pass and you have not received it, contact the Department of Revenue office where you applied.

Once your permanent card arrives, destroy your temporary paper license. You do not need to return it — straightforward throw it away. Your new permanent license has the same number as your old one and is valid for six years from the date it was issued.

If your license was stolen

Filing a police report is not required to get a replacement license, but it is a good idea if your license was stolen rather than lost. A police report creates an official record in case someone tries to use your license number for fraud. You can file a report in person at your local police department or, in many Missouri cities, online through the police department's website.

When you file the report, provide the officer with your license number, the date you discovered it was missing, and where you last had it. Keep a copy of the report for your records. If you are concerned about identity theft, you may also want to place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).

Replacing a license if you have changed your name

If you have changed your name since your last license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or court order — bring proof of the name change along with your identity and address documents. For marriage, bring your original marriage certificate or a certified copy. For divorce, bring the original divorce decree or a certified copy. For a court-ordered name change, bring the original court order or a certified copy.

The Department of Revenue will issue your replacement license with your new legal name. The process is the same as a standard replacement, and the fee remains $11.50.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my passport as proof of identity?

No. The Department of Revenue requires an original document. Bring your actual passport or passport card, not a copy. If you do not have an original passport, you can use a military ID, original birth certificate, or certified copy of your birth certificate instead.

What if I do not have a utility bill or lease in my name?

You can bring a document in your spouse's or parent's name (such as a utility bill or mortgage statement) along with a certified copy of your marriage certificate or birth certificate proving the relationship. Bank statements and insurance policies in your name also work as proof of address.

How long is the temporary paper license valid?

Your temporary paper license is valid for driving until your permanent card arrives, which is typically 7 to 10 business days. If your permanent card does not arrive within two weeks, contact the Department of Revenue office where you applied.

Do I have to file a police report if my license was stolen?

No, a police report is not required to get a replacement. However, filing one creates an official record in case someone tries to use your license number fraudulently. You can file a report in person at your local police department or online through many Missouri police department websites.

Will my new license have the same number as my old one?

Yes. Your replacement license has the same number as your original license. The number does not change when you replace a lost, stolen, or damaged card.