Get a replacement at your local Missouri Department of Revenue office with your Social Security number and proof of residency
If you've lost your Missouri driver's license, you can replace it in person at any Missouri Department of Revenue office. You'll need to bring your Social Security number (or a document showing it), proof of your current address, and a valid form of identification. The replacement license costs money — the amount depends on how long until your current license expires — and you'll receive it on the spot or by mail depending on which office you visit.
You don't need to retake the written or driving test unless your license was suspended or revoked. A lost license is treated as a straightforward replacement, not a new issuance.
Key Takeaways
- Bring your Social Security number, proof of address, and a valid ID to any Missouri Department of Revenue office to replace a lost license.
- The replacement fee varies based on your license expiration date, typically ranging from $5 to $25.
- You can get a temporary paper license the same day at most offices, or request a replacement by mail if you prefer.
- Missouri does not require you to retake any tests for a lost license replacement.
- If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot replace it — you must resolve the suspension first.
What documents to bring to the Department of Revenue
The Missouri Department of Revenue requires two main things: proof of your identity and proof of your current address. For identity, bring a valid form of ID — this can be a passport, military ID, state ID card, or another government-issued document with your photo and signature. If you don't have a second form of ID, you can bring documents that together establish your identity, such as a birth certificate plus a Social Security card.
For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and current Missouri address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you've recently moved and don't have a utility bill yet, a lease or rental agreement works just as well.
You'll also need to provide your Social Security number. If you don't have your Social Security card with you, you can write the number down, but the Department of Revenue may ask you to verify it in other ways.
Where to go and how long it takes
Missouri has Department of Revenue offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you on the Missouri Department of Revenue website — search for "driver license office locations" or call 573-526-2407 to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment. Some offices operate by appointment only, while others accept walk-ins. Calling ahead saves a trip.
If you go in person, most offices issue a temporary paper license on the spot that you can use when ready while your replacement card is being made. The permanent replacement card usually arrives by mail within two to three weeks. A few offices can issue the permanent card the same day, but this varies by location.
If you prefer not to go in person, you can request a replacement by mail. Contact your local office for their mail-in process — some accept applications by mail, while others require you to visit in person.
The replacement fee and license validity
Missouri charges a replacement fee that depends on how much time remains on your current license. If your license expires within one year, the fee is typically $5. If it expires between one and three years away, the fee is usually around $10 to $15. If it expires more than three years away, expect to pay closer to $25. These amounts can change, so confirm the exact fee when you contact your local office or visit in person.
Your replacement license will have the same expiration date as your original license. You are not renewing your license — you are replacing it with an identical one. If your original license was set to expire soon, you may want to renew it at the same time you replace it, though this is optional and costs extra.
If your license was suspended or revoked
You cannot replace a suspended or revoked license. The Department of Revenue will not issue a replacement until the suspension or revocation is lifted. If you're unsure whether your license is suspended, call the Department of Revenue at 573-526-2407 and provide your driver's license number or Social Security number. They can tell you the status when ready.
If your license is suspended, you'll need to resolve the reason for the suspension first. Common reasons include unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or failure to appear in court. Once you've addressed the underlying issue, contact the Department of Revenue to confirm the suspension has been lifted, then you can explore for your replacement.
Reporting your lost license to prevent misuse
While not required by Missouri law, it's a good idea to contact your local police department and file a report that your license is lost. This creates a record in case someone finds it and tries to use it. You don't need to do this to replace your license, but it protects you if the lost license is used fraudulently.
You should also monitor your credit report for any suspicious activity. You can request a free credit report once per year from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) at annualcreditreport.com. If you notice unauthorized accounts or inquiries, contact the credit bureau and the Federal Trade Commission.
Getting a duplicate license if you need one before replacement arrives
If you need to drive before your replacement card arrives by mail, ask for a temporary paper license when you visit the Department of Revenue office. This temporary license is valid for driving and is issued when ready. It's printed on paper and is smaller than a regular license, but police will recognize it as valid.
If you applied by mail and don't have a temporary license, you can visit a Department of Revenue office in person to request one. Bring the same documents you would bring for a replacement process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my lost license online?
No. Missouri requires you to appear in person at a Department of Revenue office or submit your process by mail. You cannot complete the entire process online, though some offices may allow you to schedule an appointment through their website.
What if I lost my license out of state?
You can still replace it at any Missouri Department of Revenue office. Bring the same documents — proof of identity, proof of Missouri address, and your Social Security number. If you're currently living out of state, you may need to contact your local Missouri office to discuss mail-in options.
Do I have to retake the written test to replace a lost license?
No. A lost license is a replacement, not a new issuance. You only retake tests if your license was suspended, revoked, or expired for more than a certain period. Contact the Department of Revenue if you're unsure about your specific situation.
How much does a replacement license cost?
The fee ranges from about $5 to $25 depending on your license expiration date. Confirm the exact amount by calling your local Department of Revenue office at 573-526-2407 or visiting in person.
What if I find my original license after I get a replacement?
You can keep both or destroy the original — there's no penalty. If you keep both, only one is valid for driving. Most people destroy the original to avoid confusion.