What you need to do to get a replacement Virginia license
To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Virginia driver's license, you must visit a DMV customer service center in person with proof of identity and residency. Virginia does not issue replacements by mail or online. The process takes about 15 minutes at the counter, and you will receive a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid for 45 days while your plastic card is printed and mailed to you.
You have two options: renew your current license at the same time, or straightforward replace the card with an identical one. Most people choose to replace only the card if their license is not yet expired, since a replacement costs less than a renewal. If your license has expired or will expire within 60 days, you should renew it during the same visit to avoid a second trip.
Key Takeaways
- You must go to a DMV customer service center in person with a valid ID and proof of Virginia residency; no online or mail replacements are available.
- Bring your Social Security number or an ITIN, and be ready to pay the replacement fee of $20 for a standard license or $30 for a REAL ID card.
- You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days, and your plastic replacement card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- If your license is expired or expiring soon, renew it at the same visit to avoid making a second trip to the DMV.
- Bring the original documents or certified copies; photocopies and digital images are not accepted for proof of identity or residency.
Documents you must bring to the DMV
Virginia requires one document from the primary identity list and one from the residency list. You cannot use the same document for both purposes.
For primary identity, bring one of these originals or certified copies: a valid U.S. passport, a valid passport card, a valid military ID, a valid federal employee ID, a certified birth certificate, a certified adoption decree, or a court order showing a legal name change. A Social Security card alone is not enough for identity.
For residency, bring one of these originals: a current utility bill (electric, gas, water, or phone), a current lease or mortgage statement, a property tax bill from the past 12 months, a current homeowners or renters insurance policy, a bank or credit card statement from the past 60 days, a current vehicle registration, or a current voter registration card. The document must show your name and Virginia address.
You will also need to provide your Social Security number or ITIN. If you do not have one, you can still get a replacement license, but you must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for a number.
Fees and what type of license to choose
A standard Virginia driver's license replacement costs $20. A REAL ID-compliant replacement costs $30. REAL ID is required for federal building access and domestic air travel starting May 7, 2025, so if you plan to fly or enter a federal building, choose the REAL ID option.
The difference between the two is the card itself—REAL ID cards have a gold star in the upper right corner and meet federal security standards. Both are valid for driving. If you are unsure whether you need REAL ID, ask the DMV staff when you arrive; they can advise you based on your situation.
Payment is cash, check, or card. The DMV does not accept personal checks, so bring a debit or credit card or cash.
Finding a DMV location and what to expect
Virginia has 75 customer service centers across the state. You can find the nearest one and check current wait times on the Virginia DMV website. Some locations are busier than others; rural and suburban centers typically have shorter waits than urban ones. You do not need an appointment for a replacement, but you can reserve a time slot online to skip the general queue.
When you arrive, bring all your documents and be ready to have your photo taken. The process includes a vision screening, so you may be asked to read a line of letters on a chart. If you wear glasses or contacts for driving, wear them during the test. The entire visit usually takes 10 to 20 minutes.
You will receive a temporary paper license before you leave. This temporary is valid for 45 days and can be used for driving, boarding domestic flights, and entering federal buildings. Your permanent plastic card will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.
If your license was stolen or you suspect fraud
If your license was stolen rather than lost, consider reporting the theft to local police. You do not need a police report to get a replacement, but having one on file can protect you if the stolen license is used fraudulently. When you go to the DMV, mention that the license was stolen; staff will flag your file.
If you suspect someone has used your stolen license, contact the Virginia DMV directly at 804-367-0538 to report it. The DMV can place a fraud alert on your record. You should also monitor your driving record for unauthorized tickets or violations by checking your record online through the Virginia DMV website.
Renewing at the same time as replacing
If your license is expired or expiring within 60 days, you can renew it during the same visit. A renewal costs an additional $20 for a standard license or $30 for REAL ID. The total cost would be $40 for a standard replacement and renewal, or $60 for REAL ID.
When you renew, you will need to pass the vision test again and may be asked to update your address or other information. Your new license will have a new expiration date—typically eight years from the date of renewal for a standard license, or ten years if you are 65 or older.
If you choose to replace only the card without renewing, your new card will have the same expiration date as your old one. You can renew later when that date approaches.
What to do if you cannot visit in person
Virginia does not allow mail-in or online replacements. If you are unable to visit a customer service center yourself, an when ready family member or legal representative can go on your behalf if they bring a notarized power of attorney form along with your documents and theirs. The power of attorney must specifically authorize them to obtain a driver's license replacement.
If you are homebound or have a medical condition that prevents you from traveling, contact the Virginia DMV at 804-367-0538 to ask about mobile services. The DMV operates a mobile unit that visits certain locations, though availability is limited and advance scheduling is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my replacement card in the mail?
The plastic card is usually mailed within 7 to 10 business days of your visit. Mail delivery to your address typically takes another 3 to 5 days. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact the Virginia DMV at 804-367-0538 with your temporary license number.
Can I use my temporary paper license to drive while I wait for the plastic card?
Yes. The temporary license is valid for 45 days and works for all driving purposes, including out-of-state travel. You can also use it to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings during those 45 days.
What if I moved and my address is wrong on my current license?
You can update your address during the replacement visit at no extra cost. Bring proof of your new Virginia residency (such as a utility bill or lease) along with your identity document. The DMV will print your new address on the replacement card.
Do I need to bring my old license to the DMV?
No. If your license was lost or stolen, you will not have it. If it was damaged, you can bring it, but it is not required. The DMV can look up your record using your name, date of birth, and Social Security number.
Can I get a replacement on the same day if I pay extra?
No. Virginia does not offer expedited or same-day replacements. The 7 to 10 business day mail delivery time is standard for all customers. Your temporary paper license is valid for 45 days, which covers most urgent needs.