How to Replace a Lost Driver's License in Texas

What to do if your Texas driver's license is lost

If your Texas driver's license is lost, you can replace it without taking a new written or road test. You will need to visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, and pay a replacement fee. The process takes about 15 minutes at the office, though wait times vary by location. Your replacement license will have the same number and expiration date as your original.

You do not need a police report for a lost license, though you may want to file one if you suspect identity theft. If your license was stolen along with other documents, that changes what you bring — see the section below on what to bring.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a DPS office in person with a valid ID and proof of Texas residency to replace a lost license.
The replacement fee is $11 for a standard license, and you will receive your new license on the spot or by mail depending on the office.
Your replacement license keeps the same number and expiration date as your original, so you do not lose time on your license term.
If your license was stolen along with other documents, bring extra proof of identity to prevent fraud.

Documents you need to bring to the DPS office

Bring one form of valid photo ID and one proof of current Texas residency. Your valid photo ID can be a passport, military ID, state ID card, or another government-issued ID with your photo. If you do not have a second form of ID, you can bring a certified birth certificate or a Social Security card instead.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address. The document must be dated within the last 90 days. If you recently moved and do not have a utility bill yet, a lease or mortgage document works even if it is older.

If your license was stolen and you suspect someone may use your identity, bring extra documents. Bring a second proof of residency and consider bringing a police report number if you filed one. This helps the DPS office flag your file and watch for fraud.

Where to go and how long it takes

Find your nearest DPS office on the Texas DPS website by entering your city or ZIP code. Most DPS offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have extended hours. A few offices are open on Saturday mornings. Call ahead if you are traveling more than 30 minutes — some offices close for lunch or have longer wait times on certain days.

The replacement itself takes about 15 minutes once you reach the counter. However, wait times to see a clerk range from 10 minutes to over an hour depending on the office and time of day. Early morning and mid-week visits usually mean shorter waits. If you cannot visit during business hours, some DPS offices offer online renewal for certain situations — check the website to see if yours does.

What happens at the DPS office

When you arrive, take a number and wait to be called. Tell the clerk your license is lost. The clerk will ask for your documents, verify your identity and residency, and check your driving record. They will take a new photo unless you request to use your old one — you can ask to use the photo from your lost license if you prefer.

You will pay the $11 replacement fee by cash, check, or card. Some offices issue your new license on the spot; others mail it to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. Ask the clerk which applies at that office. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you can request a temporary paper license valid for 45 days.

If you need to drive before your replacement arrives

Ask the DPS clerk for a temporary driving permit. This is a paper document valid for 45 days that allows you to drive while your replacement license is in the mail. You must carry it with you whenever you drive. The temporary permit is free and issued on the spot.

If the DPS office issued your replacement license when ready, you do not need the temporary permit. If your replacement is being mailed and you need to drive right away, request the temporary permit before you leave the office.

Replacing a lost license if you cannot visit an office

Texas does not allow you to replace a lost license by mail or online. You must visit a DPS office in person. If you live out of state temporarily or cannot travel to an office, you have two options: visit a DPS office when you return to Texas, or ask someone you trust to visit on your behalf with a notarized power of attorney.

If someone visits on your behalf, they must bring a notarized letter giving them permission to act for you, plus all the documents listed above. The notarized letter must include your signature and the notary's seal. This process is more complex than visiting yourself, so only use it if you truly cannot return to Texas soon.

What if your license was stolen with other documents

If your wallet or purse was stolen and contained your license, Social Security card, and credit cards, take extra steps to protect yourself. File a police report and keep the report number. Bring the report number to the DPS office when you replace your license — it alerts DPS to watch for fraud attempts.

Contact your bank and credit card companies to report the theft and freeze your accounts if needed. You may also want to place a fraud alert with the three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to make it harder for someone to open accounts in your name. These steps are separate from replacing your license, but they protect you while your replacement is being processed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my lost license online or by mail?

No. Texas requires you to replace a lost license in person at a DPS office. You must bring valid ID and proof of residency. If you cannot visit an office, you can authorize someone else to go on your behalf with a notarized power of attorney, though this is more complicated.

How much does it cost to replace a lost license?

The replacement fee is $11. You can pay by cash, check, or card at the DPS office. This fee does not change based on how long your license is valid.

Will my replacement license have a new number?

No. Your replacement license will have the same number as your original lost license. The expiration date also stays the same, so you do not lose any time on your license term.

What if I do not have a second form of ID?

You can bring a certified birth certificate or Social Security card instead of a second photo ID. You still need one form of valid photo ID and one proof of current Texas residency. If you do not have any of these, contact your local DPS office to ask what other documents they accept.

How long does it take to get my replacement license?

Some DPS offices issue your replacement on the spot. Others mail it to your address within 7 to 10 business days. Ask the clerk which applies at your office. If you need to drive before it arrives, request a temporary paper permit valid for 45 days.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.