How to Replace a Lost Texas Driver's License

Get a replacement license by visiting a Texas DPS office in person

To replace a lost Texas driver's license, you must go to a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person. You cannot renew or replace a license by mail, phone, or online. The DPS office will take a new photo, verify your identity, and issue a replacement license on the spot or mail it to you within one to two weeks, depending on the office's workload.

You do not need to retake the written or road test. A replacement license is a straightforward transaction that takes about 15 to 30 minutes once you arrive, though wait times at busy offices can be longer. Bring all required documents with you on your first visit — you will not be able to complete the transaction without them.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a Texas DPS office in person with a valid form of identification and proof of residency to get a replacement license.
The replacement fee is $16 for a standard license, and you can pay by cash, check, or card at most offices.
You can find your nearest DPS office and check wait times on the Texas DPS website before you go.
A replacement license will have the same expiration date as your original license unless you choose to renew it at the same time.
If your license was stolen, you may want to file a police report, though it is not required to get a replacement.

Documents you need to bring to the DPS office

Bring one form of primary identification and one form of proof of residency. Primary ID can be a passport, passport card, military ID, or a certified birth certificate. If you do not have any of these, you can use a combination of secondary documents — the DPS website lists all accepted forms.

Proof of residency must show your current Texas address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you have recently moved and your ID does not match your current address, bring both your old address proof and your new address proof.

Bring your Social Security number or a document that shows it, such as a Social Security card or tax return. You will also need to know your driver's license number if you remember it — if not, the DPS can look it up using your name and date of birth.

Where to find a DPS office and what to expect

Visit the Texas DPS website and use the office locator tool to find the DPS office nearest you. The tool shows office hours, phone numbers, and current wait times at many locations. Some offices are busier than others — smaller rural offices often have shorter waits than large city offices, and mid-morning on a weekday is typically less crowded than late afternoon or Saturday.

When you arrive, check in at the front desk and take a number. You will wait until your number is called, then go to a window where a clerk will ask for your documents, take a new photo, and confirm your information. The clerk will ask whether you want to pick up your license at that office or have it mailed to your address. If you pick it up the same day, you will pay the $16 fee and leave with your new license. If you choose mail delivery, the license will arrive within one to two weeks.

Some DPS offices offer online appointment scheduling through their website. If your office does, booking an appointment can reduce your wait time significantly. Even with an appointment, arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to allow time for check-in.

The replacement fee and payment methods

The replacement fee for a standard Texas driver's license is $16. This fee covers the cost of issuing a new license with the same expiration date as your original. If you want to renew your license at the same time — extending it for another five or eight years, depending on your age — you will pay an additional renewal fee on top of the replacement fee.

Most DPS offices accept cash, checks, and debit or credit cards. A few smaller offices may accept cash only, so if you are unsure, call ahead. You will receive a receipt showing the transaction date and your new license number.

Same-day pickup versus mail delivery

At the DPS office, you can choose to pick up your replacement license the same day or have it mailed to your address. Same-day pickup is available at most offices and means you leave with your new license in hand. Mail delivery takes one to two weeks and depends on postal service speed.

If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you have a few options. Some DPS offices issue a temporary driving permit — a paper document valid for 45 days — while your permanent license is being mailed. Ask the clerk whether your office offers this. Alternatively, if you have another form of valid ID (such as a passport), you can use that as proof of identity while driving, though it is not a substitute for a driver's license.

If your license was stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost, you may want to file a police report, though it is not required to get a replacement. A police report creates an official record in case someone tries to use your license fraudulently. You can file a report online through your local police department's website or in person at a police station.

When you go to the DPS office to replace your license, mention that it was stolen. The clerk will note this in the system. You do not need to bring the police report with you, but having the report number can be helpful if questions arise later.

What happens to your old license number

Your replacement license will have the same license number as your original license. Texas does not issue a new number when you replace a lost or stolen license. This means your insurance, vehicle registration, and any other records tied to your license number do not need to be updated.

The expiration date on your replacement license will match your original license's expiration date. If your original license was set to expire in two years, your replacement will also expire in two years. If you want to extend the expiration date, you can renew your license at the same time you replace it — the clerk can process both transactions together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. If you do not have a Social Security number or cannot locate your card, bring a document that shows your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, such as a tax return or IRS letter. The DPS accepts ITIN as an alternative.

What if my address on my ID does not match my current address?

Bring proof of both your old address and your new address. The DPS will update your address during the replacement process. Proof of your new address must be dated within the last 60 days — a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement works.

How long does it take to get a replacement license in the mail?

One to two weeks is typical, depending on the DPS office's workload and postal service speed. If you need to drive before it arrives, ask the clerk about a temporary driving permit, which is valid for 45 days.

Do I have to retake any tests to replace my license?

No. Replacing a lost or stolen license does not require you to retake the written test or road test. You only need to provide identification and proof of residency.

Can I replace my license online or by mail?

No. Texas requires you to replace a lost or stolen license in person at a DPS office. You must be present for a new photo and identity verification.

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.