You can replace your Texas license by mail or through an online service, even if you're not in Texas right now
If you've lost, damaged, or had your Texas driver's license stolen and you're living in another state, you have two main paths: mail your request to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), or use the online replacement service if you're may be able to access. The mail route takes longer but works for almost everyone. The online service is faster but only works if your license hasn't expired and you don't need to change any information on it.
You don't need to travel back to Texas or visit a Texas office to get a replacement. Texas processes these requests from anywhere in the country, and they'll mail your new license to whatever address you provide — including your current out-of-state address.
Key Takeaways
- Texas DPS accepts replacement requests by mail from anywhere in the United States, and you can have your new license sent to your current address.
- The online replacement service is faster but only works if your license is still valid and you're not changing any personal information.
- By mail, you'll need to send a completed form, a copy of your ID, and payment; processing takes roughly four to six weeks.
- If your license has expired or you need to update your address or other details, you must use the mail-in method or renew in person when you return to Texas.
Using the Online Replacement Service
The fastest way to replace your license is through the Texas DPS online service at dps.texas.gov. You can do this from your out-of-state location in minutes. However, this option only works if three things are true: your license has not expired, you don't need to change your address or any other information on the license, and your license was not suspended or revoked.
Go to the DPS website, select "Driver License Services," then choose "Replace License." You'll enter your license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You'll pay the replacement fee online using a credit or debit card. Texas will mail your new license to the address currently on file with them — not to your new out-of-state address. If you've moved and need your address updated, you cannot use this method.
Processing through the online service typically takes one to two weeks. You'll receive a confirmation email, and your license will arrive by mail at the address registered with Texas DPS.
Replacing Your License by Mail
If your license has expired, you need to change your address, or you want to update any other information, you must request a replacement by mail. This method also works if you straightforward prefer not to use the online service.
read or request the process for Texas Driver License or Identification Card (Form DL-44) from the DPS website. Fill out the form completely. You'll need to include a copy of an acceptable form of ID — a passport, military ID, or another government-issued photo ID. Include a check or money order for the replacement fee (the amount varies, so check the DPS website for current pricing). Mail everything to the Texas DPS address listed on the form.
Processing by mail takes approximately four to six weeks from the date DPS receives your package. Mail delivery itself can add another week or two on each end, so plan for six to eight weeks total. When you mail your request, include the address where you want your new license sent — this can be your out-of-state address.
What to Include in Your Mail-In Request
Gather these items before you mail anything to Texas DPS:
- Completed Form DL-44 (signed and dated)
- A photocopy of one acceptable ID (passport, military ID, or government-issued photo ID)
- Payment by check or money order in the correct amount
- Your current mailing address (the out-of-state address where you want the license sent)
Do not send cash. Do not send your original documents — send copies only. Write your driver's license number on the check or money order so DPS can match the payment to your request. Include a note with your current phone number and email address in case DPS needs to contact you about your request.
Mail your package to the address on Form DL-44. Use a tracking method like certified mail or a service that provides delivery confirmation, so you know when it arrives. Keep a copy of everything you send.
Updating Your Address at the Same Time
If you're replacing your license and also need to update your address because you've moved out of state, the mail-in method handles both at once. On Form DL-44, enter your new out-of-state address in the mailing address section. Your replacement license will be printed with your new address and mailed to that location.
You do not need to notify Texas DPS of an address change separately — the replacement form takes care of it. However, if you ever need to update your address without replacing your license, you can do that online through the DPS website or by mail using Form DL-43.
Timeline and What to Expect
Here's what the process looks like from start to finish:
| Step | Online Service | Mail-In Service |
|---|---|---|
| Time to complete request | 5 to 10 minutes | 15 to 20 minutes (gathering documents) |
| Processing time at DPS | 1 to 2 weeks | 4 to 6 weeks |
| Mail delivery time | 3 to 7 days | 1 to 2 weeks each way |
| Total time to receive license | 2 to 3 weeks | 6 to 8 weeks |
You'll receive your new license by mail at the address you provided. It will look identical to your original license, with the same license number and expiration date (unless your license was about to expire, in which case you may need to renew instead of replace).
If Your License Has Expired
If your Texas license has already expired, you cannot use the online replacement service. You must renew your license instead, which is a different process than replacement. Renewal requires you to pass a vision test and may require a new photo, depending on how long your license has been expired.
For an expired license, contact the Texas DPS directly at 1-888-589-6789 to find out whether you can renew by mail from out of state or whether you'll need to renew in person when you return to Texas. Some expired licenses can be renewed by mail, but the rules depend on how long the license has been expired and your age.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my replacement?
Texas does not issue temporary driver's licenses. Once you submit your replacement request, you'll need to wait for the physical license to arrive. If you need to drive when ready and your license is lost or stolen, check whether your out-of-state location recognizes an ID from another state — many do for driving purposes while you wait for your Texas replacement.
What if I move to a different state before my replacement arrives?
Contact the Texas DPS before your license is mailed and provide your new address. You can call 1-888-589-6789 or check the DPS website for the mailing address to send an updated address request. Include your driver's license number and the new address where you want the license sent.
Do I need to notarize my mail-in request?
No. Form DL-44 does not require notarization. You only need to sign and date the form, include a copy of your ID, and send payment. Notarizing it will not speed up the process.
Can I replace my license if it was suspended or revoked?
No. You cannot replace a suspended or revoked license. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation with Texas DPS. Contact DPS at 1-888-589-6789 to find out what steps you need to take to clear the suspension or revocation before you can request a replacement.
What if my name has changed since I got my current license?
If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or legal name change, you cannot straightforward replace your license — you must renew it with your new name. You'll need to provide documentation of the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). Contact Texas DPS or visit the website to learn the renewal process for a name change from out of state.