What you need to do to get a duplicate California driver's license
A duplicate California driver's license is an exact copy of your current license — same number, same expiration date, same restrictions. You order it through the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), either online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. The process takes about two weeks by mail or one to two weeks if you order online, though in-person visits can be faster depending on your local office's wait times.
You do not need to retake your photo, pass a test, or provide new documents. The DMV straightforward prints another card with the information already on file. The cost is $20 as of 2024, though fees can change — confirm the current fee on the DMV website before you order.
Key Takeaways
- You can order a duplicate license online through the DMV website, by mail with a form and check, or in person at any DMV office.
- A duplicate license has the same number and expiration date as your current license and costs $20.
- Processing takes about two weeks by mail or one to two weeks online; in-person service is usually faster but depends on office wait times.
- You will need your current license number or your driver's license identification number to order online.
- If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, a duplicate is the fastest way to get a replacement card without reapplying.
Ordering a duplicate license online
The fastest route for most people is the DMV website at dmv.ca.gov. Go to the "Duplicate Driver's License or ID Card" section and select "Order a Duplicate." You will need your current California driver's license number or your driver's license identification number. You will also need a valid payment method — the DMV accepts credit cards, debit cards, and electronic checks.
After you submit your order, the DMV will mail your duplicate license to the address on file. You can check the status of your order on the DMV website using your confirmation number. Most online orders arrive within one to two weeks, though processing times vary by season and current DMV workload.
Ordering by mail
If you prefer not to order online, you can mail a request to the DMV. read form DL 44 (process for California Driver's License) or form DL 43 (process for California Identification Card) from the DMV website, depending on which document you hold. You do not need to fill out the entire form — only the section requesting a duplicate.
Include a check or money order for $20 payable to the "Department of Motor Vehicles," your current license or ID card (or a photocopy), and a signed letter stating that you are requesting a duplicate. Mail everything to the DMV address listed on the form. Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks from the date the DMV receives your request.
Getting a duplicate in person at a DMV office
You can walk into any California DMV office and request a duplicate on the spot. Bring your current driver's license or ID card, a valid payment method (cash, check, debit card, or credit card), and be prepared to wait. Wait times vary widely — some offices have short lines, while others may have waits of an hour or more, especially during peak hours like lunch or late afternoon.
If you go in person, the DMV can often print your duplicate card the same day or within a few days. Some offices offer an appointment system through the DMV website, which can reduce your wait time significantly. Check your local office's hours and whether appointments are available before you go.
When to order a duplicate instead of a replacement
Order a duplicate if your current license is still valid and you straightforward need another physical card — for example, if you lost your license but still have your license number, or if you want a backup card. A duplicate keeps your current license number and expiration date.
Order a replacement instead if your license is damaged, expired, or if you need to update information like your address, name, or medical restrictions. A replacement requires you to visit a DMV office in person and may require new documents or a new photo. If you are unsure which you need, call the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 or check the DMV website.
What happens if your license is lost or stolen
If your license is lost or stolen, a duplicate is the fastest way to get a replacement card. You do not need to file a police report unless you believe your identity has been compromised. straightforward order the duplicate through the methods above.
If you are concerned about identity theft — for example, if your license was stolen along with other documents — contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to place a fraud alert on your credit file. You can also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at reportidentitytheft.ftc.gov. These steps are separate from ordering your duplicate license but may be necessary depending on what was stolen.
Tracking your duplicate license order
If you ordered online, you can track your order on the DMV website using your confirmation number. The tracking tool will show you whether your order is being processed, has been printed, or is in the mail. If you ordered by mail, tracking is not available — the DMV will mail your duplicate to the address on file, and you should receive it within two to three weeks.
If more than three weeks have passed since you mailed your request and you have not received your duplicate, contact the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 to check the status. Have your driver's license number and the date you mailed your request ready when you call.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order a duplicate if my license is expired?
No. If your license is expired, you need to renew it instead of ordering a duplicate. Renewal requires a visit to a DMV office and may require a new photo and updated documents. Check the DMV website for renewal requirements and fees.
How much does a duplicate license cost?
A duplicate California driver's license costs $20 as of 2024. Fees can change, so confirm the current cost on the DMV website before you order. Payment methods include credit cards, debit cards, checks, money orders, and cash (in person only).
Can I get a duplicate license if I have an out-of-state address?
Yes. The DMV will mail your duplicate to any address you provide, whether in California or out of state. If you have moved out of California and want to update your address on your license, you will need to renew instead of ordering a duplicate.
What if I need my duplicate license right away?
In-person service at a DMV office is your fastest option. Some offices can print your duplicate the same day, though wait times vary. Call your local DMV office or check the website to see current wait times before you go. If you need your license for a specific appointment, plan ahead and order online or by mail as soon as possible.
Do I need to bring anything if I order a duplicate online?
No. When you order online, you only need your current license number or driver's license identification number and a valid payment method. The DMV will mail your duplicate to the address on file. You do not need to visit an office or provide any documents.