What you need to do to get a replacement license in Texas
To replace a lost driver's license in Texas, you visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, pay a replacement fee, and take a new photo. The process takes about 30 minutes at the office. You'll leave with a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while your plastic card is mailed to you, which usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
You cannot renew or replace a Texas license online, by mail, or through a third party — you must go to a DPS office yourself. The fee for a replacement license is $16 for a standard five-year license, or $32 for an eight-year license. If your license was stolen and you want to report it to prevent fraud, you can do that at the same visit.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DPS office in person with proof of identity and Texas residency to replace a lost license.
- The replacement fee is $16 for a five-year license or $32 for an eight-year license, paid at the office.
- You receive a temporary paper license when ready that is valid for 45 days, and your plastic card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
- Bring an original or certified copy of a document proving your identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or military ID.
- If your license was stolen, you can request a report be filed at the DPS office to help prevent identity theft.
Documents you need to bring to the DPS office
You need one document proving your identity and one document proving you live in Texas. For identity, bring an original or certified copy of your U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, military ID, or permanent resident card. A photocopy of your old license does not count as proof of identity — it must be an original document or certified copy.
For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name with your current Texas address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a utility bill or lease, a bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail addressed to you at your Texas address also works.
If you have a Real ID-compliant license or want to upgrade to one, bring the same identity and residency documents plus proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return). Real ID licenses cost the same as standard licenses but are required to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building starting May 7, 2025.
Finding a DPS office near you and what to expect
Search for DPS driver license offices on the Texas DPS website at dps.texas.gov. Enter your city or zip code to find the nearest office and its hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, with some locations open on Saturday mornings. Wait times vary by location and time of day — offices are typically less crowded early in the morning or mid-week.
When you arrive, take a number at the front desk and wait to be called. Tell the clerk you need to replace a lost license. They will verify your documents, take a new photo, and process your replacement. The entire visit usually takes 20 to 40 minutes, depending on how busy the office is. You will pay the fee by cash, debit card, or credit card at that time.
Some DPS offices allow you to schedule an appointment online through their website, which can reduce wait time. Check your local office's page to see if appointments are available. If you cannot visit during regular hours, a few offices offer evening or weekend appointments, though these fill quickly.
Your temporary license and when your new card arrives
Before you leave the DPS office, you will receive a temporary paper license printed on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 45 days and can be used for driving, voting, or any other purpose that requires a driver's license. Keep it in your wallet or with you at all times until your plastic card arrives.
Your permanent plastic license is mailed to the address you provided at the DPS office. Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you applied. If you move before your card arrives, you can update your address at a DPS office, but the card will be re-mailed to your new address, which adds another week or more.
If your card does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DPS by phone at 1-888-589-6556 to check the status. Have your temporary license number ready. If the card was lost in the mail, DPS can issue a replacement, though you may have to pay another replacement fee depending on the circumstances.
If your license was stolen and you want to report it
If your license was stolen rather than straightforward lost, you can file a report at the DPS office during your replacement visit. Tell the clerk that your license was stolen and ask them to note it in the system. This creates a record that can help prevent someone else from using your license number for fraud or identity theft.
Filing a theft report at DPS does not cost extra and does not delay your replacement. However, it is separate from filing a police report. If you are concerned about identity theft — for example, if your license was stolen along with other documents — you may also want to file a report with your local police department and place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).
What to do if you cannot visit a DPS office in person
Texas does not allow mail-in or online replacement of a lost license, so you must visit an office yourself. If you are temporarily out of state or unable to travel, you have two options: wait until you can return to Texas, or ask someone you trust to help you find an office near you when you return.
If you are disabled or have a medical condition that makes it difficult to visit an office, some DPS locations offer accommodations such as priority service or a shorter wait. Call the office ahead of time to ask what they can provide. You may also be able to request a mobile DPS unit visit your location if you are in a rural area, though this is rare and must be arranged well in advance through your county.
Replacing your license if it was damaged instead of lost
If your license is damaged — torn, faded, or warped — the replacement process is the same as for a lost license. Bring the damaged card with you to the DPS office along with your identity and residency documents. The clerk will take it and issue you a replacement. You still pay the $16 or $32 replacement fee and receive a temporary license on the spot.
Damage from normal wear and tear (a faded photo or worn edges) usually qualifies for replacement. Damage from intentional alteration or tampering may result in additional questions or a longer processing time. If your license was damaged in a way that suggests fraud, mention that to the clerk so they can flag it in the system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license if it expired while it was lost?
Yes. You can replace an expired license at any DPS office using the same process and fee as a lost license. Your new license will be valid for five or eight years from the date you replace it, not from the original expiration date. Bring the same identity and residency documents.
What if I do not have a birth certificate or passport?
You can use a military ID, permanent resident card, or certified copy of a court order showing your name and date of birth. If you do not have any of these, contact the DPS office before you visit to ask what other documents they will accept. Some offices can work with you on a case-by-case basis.
Do I need to take a new photo, or can I use my old one?
You must take a new photo at the DPS office. This is required for all replacements. The photo is taken on the spot using the office's camera, so you cannot bring a photo from home. Wear something you are comfortable being photographed in.
How much does it cost to replace a lost license in Texas?
A replacement license costs $16 for a five-year standard license or $32 for an eight-year license. If you want to upgrade to a Real ID-compliant license, the cost is the same. Payment is made at the DPS office by cash, debit card, or credit card.
Can I get a replacement license the same day I explore?
You receive a temporary paper license the same day you visit the DPS office, which is valid when ready for driving and identification. Your permanent plastic card is mailed to you and arrives in 7 to 10 business days. There is no way to get the plastic card the same day.