How to Order a Replacement Driver's License

Where to order depends on your state and what you need

You order a replacement driver's license through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), though the name varies—some states call it the Secretary of State's office or the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Most states now let you order online through their official website, by mail, or in person at a local DMV office. A few still require you to appear in person for a new photo, but most allow mail and online orders for replacements when your current license is still valid or expired.

The method you choose affects how long you wait and what you need to bring or submit. Online ordering is fastest in most states—typically three to ten business days for delivery. Mail takes longer, usually two to four weeks. In-person visits are when ready if you need your license the same day, but you'll spend time at the office.

Start by visiting your state's official DMV website. Search "[your state] DMV order replacement license" to find the right page. Do not use a third-party service that charges a fee to help you order—your state's DMV website is free.

Key Takeaways

Your state's DMV website is the official place to order; search for "[your state] DMV" and look for "replace license" or "duplicate license" options.
Online ordering usually takes three to ten business days and costs between $5 and $30 depending on your state.
You will need your current license number, date of birth, and a mailing address; some states also require a photo upload or in-person visit.
If your license was lost or stolen, report it to your DMV at the same time you order the replacement to prevent misuse.
Expedited shipping is available in most states for an extra fee if you need the license faster than standard delivery.

What information and documents you need to have ready

Before you start an online order, gather your current license or ID number, your date of birth, and the address where you want the replacement mailed. Most states ask for your Social Security number to verify your identity. Have this information in front of you before you begin.

Some states require you to upload a new photo during the online order process. If yours does, use a plain background, face the camera straight on, and avoid sunglasses or hats. The photo rules are the same as for an in-person visit—your state's DMV website will show examples of acceptable photos.

If you are ordering because your license was lost or stolen, you may need to file a report with your DMV first or at the same time. This protects you if someone tries to use your old license number. Check your state's website for whether this is required or optional.

Online ordering step by step

Go to your state's official DMV website and find the section for ordering a replacement or duplicate license. This is usually under "Driver's License Services" or "Renew or Replace." Click the link for "order a replacement" or "duplicate license."

Enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will pull up your record and confirm your identity. If the information does not match what is on file, you will not be able to complete the order online and will need to visit an office in person or call your DMV.

Review your current address on file. If it is correct, proceed. If it is wrong, you may need to update it before ordering the replacement. Some states let you change your address during the replacement order; others require you to update your address first through a separate process.

Choose your delivery method. Standard mail delivery is included in the base fee. Expedited or overnight shipping costs extra—usually $5 to $15 more. Select the speed you need and proceed to payment. Pay by debit card, credit card, or electronic check, depending on what your state accepts.

After payment, you will receive a confirmation number. Write this down or take a screenshot. Your replacement license will be mailed to the address on file within the timeframe you selected.

Ordering by mail or in person

If your state does not offer online ordering, or if you prefer to mail your request, read the replacement license form from your state's DMV website. Fill it out completely—incomplete forms are returned without processing, which delays your order by weeks.

Mail the form along with the required fee to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of your current license or another form of ID if requested. Mail delivery to the DMV typically takes one week, processing takes another one to two weeks, and mailing the license back to you takes another week, so plan for three to four weeks total.

If you need your license when ready, visit a DMV office in person. Bring your current license, proof of your address (a utility bill or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and payment. You will be photographed on site, and in most cases you can walk out with a temporary paper license the same day. The plastic card arrives by mail within one to two weeks.

How long it takes and what it costs

Standard online ordering takes three to ten business days from the time you place your order. Expedited options, where available, take one to three business days. Mail orders take two to four weeks total because of mail transit time on both ends.

The cost varies by state. Most states charge between $5 and $30 for a replacement license. Expedited shipping adds $5 to $15. Some states charge more if your license was lost or stolen versus straightforward needing an update. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee before you order.

If you order online and pay by card, the charge appears on your statement when ready, even though your license has not arrived yet. If you pay by check through the mail, allow extra time for the check to clear.

What to do if your license was lost or stolen

Report the loss or theft to your DMV at the same time you order the replacement. This creates a record that your old license number is no longer valid. If someone finds your lost license or steals it, they cannot use it to open accounts or pass identity checks because the DMV has flagged it.

Some states let you report the loss online during the replacement order process. Others require you to call or visit an office. Check your state's website for the specific steps. If you are ordering online and there is no option to report a loss, call your DMV after you complete the order and provide your confirmation number.

If your license was stolen and you suspect identity theft, also contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to place a fraud alert on your credit report. This is separate from reporting to your DMV, but it protects you from someone opening credit accounts in your name.

Tracking your replacement license after you order

After you place an online order, you will receive a confirmation email with a confirmation number. Some states provide a tracking number that you can use to check the status of your replacement license on the DMV website. Log in with your confirmation number to see whether your order is being processed, has shipped, or has been delivered.

If you ordered by mail, you will not have tracking unless you paid for a tracked mail service. Standard mail has no tracking, so you will not know when it arrives until it shows up in your mailbox. If your replacement license does not arrive within the timeframe your state promised, contact the DMV with your confirmation number.

If your replacement license arrives damaged or with errors on it, contact your DMV when ready. Most states will issue a corrected replacement at no additional charge if the error was made by the DMV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired license to order a replacement?

Yes. Most states let you order a replacement online or by mail using an expired license number. You will need your license number, date of birth, and Social Security number to verify your identity. If your license expired more than a certain number of years ago (usually five to ten), you may need to visit an office in person or renew rather than replace.

What if I do not have my license number?

Call your state's DMV customer service line with your name, date of birth, and address. They can look up your license number in their system. You can then use that number to order online. Your state's DMV website lists the phone number and hours.

How much does expedited shipping cost?

Expedited shipping costs vary by state, usually between $5 and $15 extra. Some states offer multiple speed options—standard, expedited, and overnight. Check your state's DMV website during the ordering process to see the exact cost before you pay.

Can I order a replacement if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or fine?

Most states will process a replacement license order regardless of outstanding tickets or fines. However, some states may suspend your license if you owe money, which means the replacement you receive will also be suspended. Contact your DMV to check whether your license is currently suspended before ordering.

What if my address has changed since my current license was issued?

Update your address with your DMV before or during the replacement order, depending on your state's process. Some states let you change your address online at the same time you order the replacement. Others require you to update your address first through a separate transaction. Check your state's website for the correct order of steps.

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.