You can replace a lost Texas driver's license online if you meet specific requirements
Texas allows you to replace a lost driver's license through the Department of Public Safety (DPS) website without visiting a driver's license office in person. The online process works only if your license is not expired, you have not had too many replacements recently, and you can pay by credit or debit card. If your license expired more than two years ago, or if you have already replaced it three times in the past year, you must go to a DPS office instead.
The online replacement takes about 7 to 10 business days from the time DPS processes your order. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file with your current license. You cannot change your address online during this process — if you have moved, you will need to update your address at a DPS office or wait until your replacement arrives and then explore for a duplicate with the new address.
Key Takeaways
- Online replacement works only if your license is not expired and you have not replaced it more than three times in the past 12 months.
- You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and the driver's license number from your lost license to start the online process.
- The replacement fee is $11 and must be paid by credit or debit card during the online transaction.
- Your new license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days at the address currently on file with DPS.
- If you need to change your mailing address or your license is expired, you must visit a DPS office in person instead.
What you need before you start the online process
Gather these items before you go to the DPS website. You will need your Social Security number, your date of birth, and the driver's license number from your lost license. If you do not remember your license number, you can look it up on the DPS website using your name, date of birth, and Social Security number.
You will also need a valid credit or debit card to pay the $11 replacement fee. DPS does not accept cash, check, or money order for online orders. Make sure the card you use is in your name or that you have permission to use it, because the cardholder's name and billing address will be recorded with your order.
Have your current mailing address ready. The online system will show you the address on file and will not let you change it during the replacement process. If the address is wrong, you can either wait for the license to arrive at the old address and then request a new one with the correct address, or you can go to a DPS office to update your address and order a replacement in person.
Steps to order your replacement license online
Go to the DPS website at dps.texas.gov and look for the "Driver's License" section. Select "Replace a Lost or Stolen License" and then choose "Online Replacement." You will be taken to a form that asks for your personal information.
Enter your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and driver's license number. The system will verify this information against DPS records. If the information does not match or if your license has been suspended or cancelled, the system will tell you that you cannot order online and will direct you to a DPS office.
Review the address shown on your account. This is where your new license will be mailed. If the address is incorrect, stop and visit a DPS office instead — ordering online with a wrong address will result in your license being mailed to the old location.
Enter your credit or debit card information and complete the payment. You will receive a confirmation number on screen and by email. Write down or save the confirmation number — you will need it if you want to check on your order status later.
How long it takes and what happens next
After you submit your order, DPS typically processes it within one business day. Your new license will then be printed and mailed to your address on file. The total time from order to delivery is usually 7 to 10 business days, though it can take longer during high-volume periods or if there are delays with the postal service.
You can check the status of your order on the DPS website using your confirmation number and date of birth. The status page will tell you whether your license has been printed, mailed, or delivered. If your license does not arrive within 14 business days, contact DPS to report it.
Once your new license arrives, it is valid when ready. You do not need to set up it or take any additional steps. If you need a temporary paper license to drive while you wait, you can visit a DPS office and request one — they cost $5 and are valid for 45 days.
When you cannot order online and must visit an office
You cannot use the online process if your license has been expired for more than two years. In this case, you must visit a DPS office and renew your license, which involves a new photo and may require a vision test. Bring your Social Security card, proof of residency, and proof of citizenship or legal presence.
You also cannot order online if you have already replaced your license three times in the past 12 months. This limit exists to prevent fraud. If you have hit this limit, you must wait until 12 months have passed since your first replacement, or visit a DPS office and speak with a supervisor about your situation.
If your license was suspended or cancelled for any reason — such as unpaid traffic tickets, a DUI conviction, or failure to pay child support — the online system will reject your order. You must resolve the suspension or cancellation first by contacting DPS or the agency that issued it, then you can order online or visit an office.
What to do if the online process does not work
If the DPS website tells you that you cannot order online, write down the exact error message. This will help a DPS employee understand what went wrong if you need to call or visit an office. Common reasons for rejection include a suspended license, an expired license that is too old, or information that does not match DPS records.
You can call the DPS Customer Service line at 1-888-589-6789 to ask why your online order was rejected. Have your driver's license number and Social Security number ready. The wait time can be long, especially during business hours, so consider calling early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
If you need your replacement license quickly and cannot wait 7 to 10 business days, visit a DPS office in person. Offices can issue a replacement on the same day, though you may need to wait several hours. Bring your Social Security card, proof of residency, and any identification you have.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address when I order a replacement online?
No. The online system uses the address currently on file with DPS and does not allow you to change it during the replacement process. If you have moved, visit a DPS office to update your address, or wait for your replacement to arrive at the old address and then request a new one with the correct address.
What if my credit card is declined when I try to pay?
The most common reasons are insufficient funds, a card that has expired, or a billing address that does not match DPS records. Try a different card, or visit a DPS office to pay in person with cash, check, or debit card. You can also call DPS Customer Service at 1-888-589-6789 to ask if there is a problem with your account.
Can I order a replacement if my license was suspended?
No. The online system will reject your order if your license is suspended or cancelled. You must resolve the suspension first by paying outstanding fines, completing a required course, or contacting the agency that suspended it. Once the suspension is lifted, you can order online or visit an office.
What if my new license arrives damaged or with the wrong information?
Contact DPS Customer Service at 1-888-589-6789 or visit a DPS office with your damaged license. DPS will issue a replacement at no charge if the error was their mistake. If the license was damaged in the mail, DPS may ask you to file a claim with the postal service.
Do I need a temporary license while I wait for my replacement?
You can drive on your old license until your replacement arrives, even though it is lost. However, if you need proof that you have a valid license — for example, for employment or insurance purposes — visit a DPS office and request a temporary paper license for $5. It is valid for 45 days.