How to Replace Your Texas Driver's License

The fastest way to replace your Texas license

You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Texas driver's license in person at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, or online through the DPS website if your license was lost or stolen (not damaged). The in-person route takes about 20 minutes and costs $16 for a standard replacement. The online route, called Online License Renewal, takes 7 to 10 business days and also costs $16, but you must have a valid email address and a debit or credit card to pay.

If your license was damaged but still readable, you may be able to renew it online or by mail. If it is unreadable or the damage makes it unsafe to use, you will need to go in person. Either way, you will need to bring proof of identity and proof of residency — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days works for residency.

Key Takeaways

In-person replacement at any DPS office takes about 20 minutes and costs $16; online replacement takes 7 to 10 business days and also costs $16.
You can use the online option only if your license was lost or stolen, not if it is damaged.
You will need one form of ID (passport, birth certificate, or current Texas ID) and one proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the last 90 days).
If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must go with you to the DPS office.
Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days if you explore online, or you can pick it up when ready if you explore in person.

Replacing your license in person at a DPS office

Walk into any Texas DPS office with your proof of identity and proof of residency. You do not need an appointment. Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized. The office will take a new photo, verify your information, and issue you a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid for 45 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed.

Your permanent license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary paper license is valid for driving during that time. If you need the permanent card faster, some DPS offices offer expedited service for an extra fee — call ahead to ask whether your local office does and what the cost is, because it varies.

DPS offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and some locations have extended hours on certain days. You can find your nearest office and check its hours on the DPS website. Bring cash or a debit or credit card; not all offices accept all payment methods, so call ahead if you want to be sure.

Replacing your license online

Go to the DPS Online License Renewal portal on the Texas DPS website. You will need your current or expired Texas driver's license number, your date of birth, and your Social Security number. You will also need a valid email address and a debit or credit card to pay the $16 fee.

The system will verify your identity using information from your driver's license record. If verification succeeds, you will receive a confirmation email. Your new license will be printed and mailed within 7 to 10 business days. You can track the status of your replacement through the DPS website using your license number and date of birth.

The online option is available only if your license was lost or stolen. If your license is damaged, you must explore in person or by mail.

Replacing your license by mail

You can mail an process to the DPS if you prefer not to go in person. read the Driver License process (Form DL-44) from the DPS website, fill it out, and mail it with a copy of your proof of identity and proof of residency to the address listed on the form. Include a check or money order for $16 made out to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Processing by mail takes 4 to 6 weeks. You will not receive a temporary license, so you cannot drive legally during that time unless you have another valid form of ID (such as a passport). This option is slower than in-person or online replacement and is best used only if you cannot reach a DPS office or do not have internet access.

What documents you need to bring

You must bring one form of proof of identity and one form of proof of residency. Acceptable forms of identity include a valid passport, a certified birth certificate, a Social Security card, a military ID, or a school or work ID. Acceptable forms of residency include a utility bill, a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government check — all dated within the last 90 days.

If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one. If you are under 18, bring a parent or legal guardian with you; they will need to show their own ID and sign the process.

If your license was stolen

You do not have to file a police report to replace a stolen license, but you may want to if you are concerned about identity theft. A police report can help if someone uses your license number fraudulently. You can file a report online through your local police department's website or in person at a police station.

When you replace your stolen license, the DPS will issue you a new license number. The old number will no longer be valid. If you are worried that your stolen license could be used to open accounts or make purchases in your name, you can place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) for free.

Replacing your license if it is damaged

If your license is damaged but still readable, you may be able to renew it by mail or online. If the damage makes the license unreadable or unsafe to use — for example, if the magnetic stripe is broken or the photo is obscured — you must replace it in person at a DPS office.

When you go in person, bring the damaged license with you along with your proof of residency. The DPS will take a new photo and issue a temporary paper license while your permanent card is printed. The cost is the same: $16.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to replace a Texas driver's license?

A standard replacement costs $16. Some DPS offices offer expedited service for an additional fee, but the amount varies by location. Call your local DPS office to ask if expedited service is available and what it costs.

Can I drive with a temporary paper license while I wait for my permanent card?

Yes. The temporary paper license issued in person is valid for 45 days and can be used for driving. If you explore online or by mail, you will not receive a temporary license, so you cannot drive legally during processing unless you have another valid form of ID.

What if I lost my license out of state?

You can still replace it through the Texas DPS online portal or by mail if you have your license number and other identifying information. If you are out of state and need to drive when ready, you may be able to get a replacement in the state where you are located, then transfer it back to Texas later.

Do I need to take a new photo and vision test to replace my license?

Yes, if you explore in person. The DPS will take a new photo and may conduct a vision screening. If you explore online or by mail, you will not take a new photo or vision test unless your license is expiring soon and requires renewal rather than replacement.

How long does it take to get my replacement license?

In person: you get a temporary paper license when ready and your permanent card within 7 to 10 business days. Online: 7 to 10 business days. By mail: 4 to 6 weeks. Some DPS offices offer expedited in-person service for faster delivery.

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.