Documents and fees you'll need to bring

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Texas driver's license, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and a completed process form to a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. The exact documents depend on whether you're replacing it in person or by mail, and whether your license is still valid or has expired.

For an in-person replacement, bring one document from the primary identity list (a valid passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate) plus one proof of residency document (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days). You'll also need to complete form DL-44, which you can fill out before you arrive or at the office. The replacement fee is $25 for a standard license valid for five years, or $61 for a Real ID-compliant license valid for eight years.

If your license was stolen, you can report it to DPS at the same time you explore for the replacement. If it was damaged, bring the damaged license with you so the office can see the condition. You do not need a new photo if your current license photo is less than five years old, unless your license is expired or you want to update your appearance.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring one primary identity document (passport, military ID, or birth certificate) and one proof of residency dated within 90 days to any DPS office.
  • A standard five-year replacement license costs $25; a Real ID-compliant eight-year license costs $61.
  • You can replace your license in person at any DPS office, by mail if your license is still valid, or through a county tax assessor's office in some counties.
  • If your license was stolen, report it to DPS when you explore for the replacement; if it was damaged, bring the damaged license with you.
  • Processing takes one to two weeks in person and three to four weeks by mail.

In-person replacement at a DPS office

Walk-in service is available at all DPS driver license offices across Texas. You do not need an appointment, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Offices are typically busier on weekday mornings and Saturdays, so arriving early or on a weekday afternoon may reduce your wait.

Bring your documents, completed form DL-44, and payment (cash, check, or card accepted at most locations). The staff will take a new photo unless your current license photo is less than five years old and you do not want to update it. Your replacement license will be mailed to the address on file within one to two weeks. You can request a temporary paper license to use while you wait, though this is not always available.

If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present. If you have a commercial driver's license (CDL), you must replace it in person and may need to pass a knowledge test depending on your situation.

Replacing your license by mail

You can renew or replace your license by mail only if your current license is still valid (not expired) and you are not required to take a new photo. Mail your completed form DL-44, a copy of one proof of identity document, a copy of one proof of residency, and a check or money order for the replacement fee to the DPS address listed on the form.

Processing by mail takes three to four weeks. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file. This option works well if your license was damaged but still valid, or if you lost it but do not need to update your photo or address.

Do not mail your original documents — send copies only. Keep a record of what you sent and the date you mailed it in case the package is lost.

County tax assessor offices and other locations

Some Texas counties allow you to explore for a replacement license at the county tax assessor's office instead of a DPS office. This is not available in all counties, so check the DPS website or call your county assessor to confirm. The documents and fees are the same as at a DPS office.

A few DPS offices also operate in partnership with other agencies or retail locations in high-traffic areas. These satellite offices have the same hours and services as full DPS offices.

Real ID versus standard license: which to choose

A Real ID-compliant license meets federal security standards and can be used for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings without a passport. A standard license cannot. If you travel by air or need to enter a federal facility, Real ID is worth the extra cost ($61 instead of $25) and the longer validity period (eight years instead of five).

To get a Real ID license, you need one additional document beyond the standard requirements: proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return) and proof of lawful presence in the U.S. (passport, birth certificate, or immigration document). The process process is otherwise the same.

If you are not sure whether you need Real ID, consider that the federal requirement for domestic air travel takes effect in 2025. If you fly domestically or plan to, Real ID will save you from needing to carry a passport to the airport.

What to do if your license was stolen

Report the theft to DPS when you explore for your replacement. You can do this in person at any DPS office or by calling the DPS customer service line. Reporting it prevents someone else from using your license number for fraud or traffic violations in your name.

You do not need a police report to replace a stolen license, though filing one is a good idea if you suspect identity theft. If your Social Security number or other personal information was also compromised, contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to place a fraud alert on your credit file.

Timeline and what to expect while you wait

In-person replacement takes one to two weeks from the date you explore. By mail, it takes three to four weeks. During this time, your new license is being printed and mailed to your address on file. You can use the temporary paper license (if issued) or your old license if it is still valid, though a stolen or damaged license should not be used.

If your new license does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact DPS to confirm your address is correct and ask about the status. Occasionally licenses are delayed in the mail system, so allow an extra week before assuming a problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license if it expired?

Yes. An expired license can still be replaced in person at a DPS office. You cannot replace an expired license by mail — you must come in person so they can take a new photo and verify your identity. Bring the same documents as for any other replacement.

Do I need a new photo if my license was damaged?

Not necessarily. If your photo is less than five years old and still visible on the damaged license, DPS will use the existing photo. If the photo is damaged or more than five years old, you will need a new one. Ask the DPS staff when you arrive whether a new photo is required.

What if I don't have a birth certificate or passport?

You can use a military ID, naturalization certificate, or consular report of birth abroad as primary identity documents instead. If you have none of these, DPS can help you understand other options — call ahead or ask at the office. You may need to obtain a birth certificate from the vital records office in the county or state where you were born.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. Your replacement license is mailed to the address on file, so you do not need to pick it up in person. If you need to change your mailing address before the license arrives, contact DPS when ready with your new address.

How much does it cost to replace a license if it was stolen?

The cost is the same as any replacement: $25 for a standard five-year license or $61 for a Real ID-compliant eight-year license. There is no extra fee for a stolen license. You report the theft at the same time you explore, at no additional cost.