What you need to do to replace a lost Texas driver's license

To replace a lost Texas driver's license, you'll visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, pay a replacement fee, and have a new photo taken. The process takes about 30 minutes at the office, and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot while your plastic card is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

You cannot replace a lost license by mail or online in Texas. You must appear in person at a DPS driver license office. If you live outside Texas, you can contact the DPS to see if a nearby office in your state can process the replacement, though this is not may provide.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Texas DPS driver license office in person with valid proof of identity and proof of current Texas residency.
  • The replacement fee is $16 for a standard five-year license or $32 for an eight-year license; bring cash, debit, or credit card.
  • You'll receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
  • Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return.
  • If you cannot locate your Social Security number, you can bring a birth certificate or passport instead.

Documents to bring to the DPS office

Bring one document that proves your identity and one that proves you live in Texas right now. For identity, the DPS accepts a passport, military ID, certified birth certificate, or a previous Texas driver's license or ID card. If you have none of these, you can bring two documents from a secondary list, such as a school ID, employee badge, or utility bill.

For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days showing your current Texas address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. A government check or tax return also counts if it shows your address. Your name must match the name on your identity document.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, or a document that shows it, such as a W-2 form, tax return, or 1099. If you cannot find any of these, bring a birth certificate or passport instead — the DPS can verify your number through other means.

Fees and payment methods

A standard five-year driver's license costs $16 to replace. If you want an eight-year license instead, the fee is $32. These are the only two options for a replacement license in Texas.

The DPS office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices may also accept checks, but calling ahead to confirm is wise. If you cannot pay at the time of your visit, you cannot complete the replacement that day.

How long the process takes

Your visit to the DPS office usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. You'll check in, provide your documents, have a new photo taken, pay the fee, and receive a temporary paper license before you leave. This temporary license is valid for driving while you wait for your plastic card.

Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Mail delivery times can vary, so if you don't receive it within two weeks, contact the DPS to check the status. The mailing address on file must be correct, so double-check it before you leave the office.

Finding a DPS office near you

Texas has over 130 DPS driver license offices across the state. You can find the one nearest you on the Texas DPS website by entering your city or ZIP code. The website shows office hours, which vary by location — some offices are open Monday through Friday, while others have Saturday hours.

Wait times differ by office and time of day. Offices in smaller towns are often faster than those in major cities. Visiting early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits. Some offices allow you to check current wait times online before you go.

What to do if you cannot find required documents

If you don't have a passport, military ID, or previous Texas license, you can bring two documents from the secondary identity list instead. These include a school ID, employee ID, utility bill, lease, bank statement, insurance policy, or government check. Both documents must show your name.

If you cannot locate your Social Security card or a document showing your number, bring your birth certificate or passport. The DPS can look up your Social Security number through other state and federal databases. This may take a few extra minutes, but it will not delay your replacement.

If you have lost your birth certificate as well, you can order a replacement from the Texas Vital Statistics office or the vital records office in the state where you were born. This process takes several weeks, so plan ahead if you need it.

Using your temporary license while you wait

The temporary paper license you receive at the DPS office is valid for driving in Texas and is recognized by law enforcement. You can use it to drive, renew your vehicle registration, or show as proof of identity. Keep it in a safe place until your plastic card arrives.

If you lose the temporary license before your plastic card arrives, you'll need to return to the DPS office and request another one. There is no additional fee for a replacement temporary license. Once your plastic card arrives, the temporary license is no longer needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. You need a valid passport or travel document, proof of legal presence in the United States (such as a visa or work permit), proof of Texas residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN. Bring the same documents as any other applicant, plus your immigration documents.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring a document proving the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DPS will update your name on your new license. Your identity document must show your current legal name.

Do I need to take a new photo for a replacement license?

Yes. The DPS takes a new photo at the office during your visit. You cannot use your old photo from your lost license. Wear clear glasses if you normally do, and avoid hats or head coverings unless required by religion.

How much does it cost to replace a lost Texas license?

A five-year license costs $16 and an eight-year license costs $32. These are the only two options. Payment must be made at the time of your visit in cash, debit, or credit card.

What if I move out of Texas before my new license arrives?

Your Texas license will still be mailed to the address you provided at the DPS office. If you've already moved, contact the DPS with your new address and they can remail it. Once you move to another state, you'll need to get a driver's license from that state within the timeframe it requires.