Get a replacement license by visiting an Oregon DMV office with proof of identity and residency
You can replace a lost Oregon driver's license in person at any Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) DMV office. Bring a valid form of identification, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number. The replacement license costs $50 and takes about 15 minutes to process. You'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot and your plastic card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Oregon does not offer online or mail-in replacement for lost licenses. You must appear in person, and you cannot use a representative to do it for you. If you cannot reach an office during regular hours, some locations offer evening or Saturday appointments — check the ODOT website for your nearest office's schedule.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit an ODOT DMV office in person with a valid ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number to replace a lost license.
- The replacement fee is $50, and you receive a temporary paper license when ready and a plastic card by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
- Oregon does not allow online, mail-in, or phone replacements for lost licenses.
- If you need to drive before your plastic card arrives, the temporary paper license is valid for all driving purposes.
What documents to bring to the DMV office
Bring one valid form of primary identification. ODOT accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or an out-of-state driver's license or ID card. If you do not have any of these, you can use a combination of secondary documents — such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, or school ID — but you will need more of them and the process takes longer.
You also need proof that you live at your current address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. Mail addressed to you at your current address is acceptable. Do not bring originals of documents you cannot replace easily; ODOT will not return them.
Write down your Social Security number before you go. You will need it to complete the process, but you do not need to bring the card itself.
Where to find an ODOT DMV office near you
Oregon has DMV offices in most cities and towns. The ODOT website has a full list with addresses, phone numbers, and hours at oregondmv.org. You can also call 503-945-5000 to find the office closest to you or to ask about wait times.
Some offices are busier than others. If you live near a smaller town office, you may wait less time there than at a major city location. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require you to book an appointment online or by phone. Check your local office's policy before you go — this information is listed on the ODOT website.
How to use your temporary paper license while you wait
The temporary paper license you receive at the DMV is valid for driving, employment, and most other purposes while you wait for your plastic card. You can use it to drive when ready. Law enforcement will accept it as proof of a valid license.
Some businesses, banks, or government offices may not accept a paper license as ID for non-driving purposes — they may ask for a photo ID card. If you need a photo ID for something urgent before your plastic card arrives, you can request an Oregon ID card instead of a driver's license. An ID card costs the same and arrives on the same timeline, but it does not let you drive.
What happens if you find your original license after ordering a replacement
If you find your lost license after you have reported it lost and ordered a replacement, you do not need to do anything. Your original license is no longer valid once you have reported it lost. When your replacement arrives, destroy the original by cutting it in half or shredding it. Do not try to use it.
If you find your license before you go to the DMV, you can cancel the replacement order by calling ODOT at 503-945-5000. This will save you the $50 fee.
Replacing a license if you also have an outstanding traffic fine or suspension
If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get a replacement until the suspension is lifted. Call ODOT at 503-945-5000 or check your status online at oregondmv.org to find out whether your license is suspended. If it is, you will need to resolve the underlying issue — usually paying a fine, completing a traffic safety course, or waiting out a suspension period — before you can replace it.
If you have an outstanding traffic fine but your license is not suspended, you can still get a replacement. However, some courts may place a hold on your license record. The DMV office will tell you if this applies to you when you arrive.
Replacing your license if you have changed your name or address
If you have changed your name since your lost license was issued, bring a document that shows the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The replacement process is the same, and you will receive a new license with your current name.
If you have moved to a new address in Oregon, the replacement license will show your new address. Bring proof of your new address as described above. If you have moved out of Oregon, you cannot replace an Oregon license — you will need to get a license from your new state instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license by mail or online?
No. Oregon requires you to appear in person at an ODOT DMV office. You cannot mail in a replacement request or use an online portal. You must bring your documents and complete the process at the office.
How much does a replacement license cost?
A replacement license costs $50. ODOT accepts cash, debit, and credit cards at most offices. Some smaller offices may accept cash only, so call ahead if you want to confirm payment methods.
What if I don't have a Social Security number?
You can still get a replacement license. Bring your documents and tell the DMV staff that you do not have a Social Security number. They will use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or another identifier instead. The process takes the same amount of time.
Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?
No. You must appear in person at the DMV office to explore. However, once your plastic license arrives by mail, it goes to the address you provided — anyone at that address can receive it.
What if my replacement license arrives damaged or with errors?
Contact ODOT at 503-945-5000 or visit an office in person. If the card is damaged, you can get a replacement at no extra cost. If there is an error on the license — a misspelled name or wrong address — ODOT will correct it and send a new card. Bring the damaged or incorrect license with you if you visit in person.