What you need to do to replace a DC driver's license
To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged DC driver's license, you must visit a DC Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) location in person with proof of identity and residency. The DMV will take a new photo, issue you a replacement license on the spot or by mail depending on which service you choose, and charge you a fee. The whole process takes about 15 to 30 minutes at the office, though wait times vary by location and time of day.
You cannot replace your license online or by mail in DC — you must appear at a DMV office. However, you can schedule an appointment ahead of time to avoid waiting, and you can choose whether to receive your new license when ready (at the office) or by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DC DMV office in person with a valid form of ID and proof you live in DC.
- The replacement fee is $37 for a standard license and $47 for a REAL ID-compliant license, and you pay at the time of your visit.
- You can get your new license the same day at the office or request it by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- Scheduling an appointment online at dc.gov/dmv reduces wait time and is faster than walking in without one.
Documents you must bring to the DMV
Bring one valid form of identification. The DMV accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, federal employee ID, or a valid out-of-state driver's license. If your license was stolen, bring a police report or the case number if you have it — this is not required but helps if there are questions about the replacement.
You also need proof that you live in DC. Acceptable documents include a recent utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail (such as a tax return or benefits letter) with your name and current DC address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from them confirming you live there, plus the utility bill.
Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form. If you do not have your Social Security number, you can still get a replacement license, but you will need to complete an additional form and the process may take longer.
Choosing between same-day and mail delivery
At your DMV appointment or walk-in visit, you can choose to receive your replacement license when ready or by mail. If you choose same-day service, you will receive a temporary paper license at the office and your plastic card within 7 to 10 business days by mail. If you choose mail delivery only, the plastic card arrives in the same timeframe but you do not receive a temporary document.
Same-day service costs the same as mail delivery — there is no extra fee. Most people choose same-day because you leave the office with proof of a valid license, which is useful if you need to drive or show ID before the plastic card arrives. The temporary paper license is valid for driving and identification purposes.
REAL ID versus standard DC driver's license
DC offers two types of replacement licenses: a standard driver's license and a REAL ID-compliant license. A REAL ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal requirements for entering federal buildings, military bases, and boarding domestic flights. A standard license does not have the star and does not meet these federal requirements.
If you want a REAL ID license, you must bring additional documents: an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your DC address (same documents as above). The REAL ID fee is $47, compared to $37 for a standard license. If you are replacing a REAL ID license, you can get a REAL ID replacement without extra documents — the DMV has your information on file.
If you are unsure which type you had before, the DMV staff can check your record during your visit. Many people choose REAL ID at replacement time because the extra cost is small and it covers federal ID needs for the next eight years.
How to schedule an appointment or walk in
Visit dc.gov/dmv to schedule an appointment online. The website shows available times at each of the four DC DMV locations: the main office downtown, the Northeast location, the Southeast location, and the Friendship Heights location. Appointments are usually available within a few days, and scheduling takes about five minutes.
You can also walk in without an appointment, but expect to wait 30 minutes to over an hour depending on the time of day and location. The DMV is typically less busy on weekday mornings and mid-week. If you walk in, bring all the same documents you would bring to an appointment.
The DMV is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturday mornings at some locations. Check the website for specific hours at your nearest office, as hours vary by location.
What happens if your license was stolen
If your license was stolen rather than lost or damaged, you do not have to file a police report to get a replacement, but doing so protects you if someone tries to use your information. If you file a report, bring the case number or report with you to the DMV — the staff will note it in your file.
Stolen licenses are a common form of identity theft. If you are concerned about fraud, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting one of them; they will notify the others. This is separate from the DMV process but worth doing if your license included your Social Security number on the back.
Fees and payment methods
The replacement fee is $37 for a standard DC driver's license and $47 for a REAL ID license. The DMV accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. You pay at the time of your visit — there is no way to pay in advance online.
If you are a DC resident over 65 or a person with a disability, you may be may have access to to a fee reduction or waiver. Ask the DMV staff when you arrive, or call the DMV at 202-727-5000 to ask about your situation before your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my DC license if I do not have a Social Security number?
Yes. Bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, or bring a document showing you have applied for a Social Security number. The process takes slightly longer because the DMV must complete an additional form, but you will still receive your replacement license.
What if I lost my license out of state — can I replace it by mail from DC?
No. You must visit a DC DMV office in person, even if you are currently out of state. If you are traveling and need a license quickly, schedule an appointment before you leave DC, or wait until you return. Some states allow temporary licenses for people who lost theirs while traveling, but DC does not.
How long is a replacement DC driver's license valid?
A standard DC driver's license is valid for eight years from the date of issue. A REAL ID license is also valid for eight years. The expiration date will be printed on your new license.
Do I need to bring my old license if I still have it?
No. If your license is damaged, bring it so the DMV can see the damage, but it is not required. If your license is lost or stolen, you do not need it. The DMV will look up your record by your name and date of birth.
Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?
No. You must pick up your temporary license in person at the DMV office. If you choose mail delivery for your plastic card, it will be mailed to the address on file, but you must be present at the office to complete the replacement process and receive the temporary document.