Get a replacement license at your local DPS office with your ID and a completed form
To replace a lost Texas driver's license, you need to visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person with a valid form of ID and a completed DL 43 form (process for Texas Driver License). The DPS will issue you a replacement license on the spot or mail it to you within 7 to 10 business days, depending on which service you choose. You'll pay a replacement fee, which varies based on how much time remains on your current license.
You cannot replace a lost license by mail or online. Texas requires you to appear in person so the DPS can verify your identity and take a new photograph. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at the DPS office, valid for 45 days.
Key Takeaways
- Bring a valid form of ID (passport, birth certificate, or state ID) and complete the DL 43 form before you go to the DPS office.
- The replacement fee depends on how long your current license is valid — you pay only for the remaining time on your license.
- You can get a temporary paper license at the DPS office to drive while you wait for your replacement to arrive by mail.
- Visit the DPS office during business hours; appointments are not required but walk-in wait times vary by location.
- Your replacement license will have the same number as your lost license unless you request a new number.
What ID documents the DPS will accept
The DPS accepts a limited list of documents to verify your identity when you explore for a replacement. You must bring one of the following: a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a Social Security card paired with another document showing your name and date of birth, a valid state ID card, or a valid military ID. If your birth certificate is not certified, the DPS will not accept it.
If you do not have any of these documents, you can bring alternative documents such as a school ID, a work ID, or a utility bill with your name and address, but the DPS may ask for additional proof. Call your local DPS office before you go if you are unsure whether your documents will work.
How to complete the DL 43 form
The DL 43 is a one-page process you can read from the Texas DPS website or pick up at any DPS office. Fill in your full legal name, date of birth, current address, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You do not need to write an explanation of why your license was lost — the form does not ask for one.
Sign and date the form before you arrive at the DPS office. Bring the completed form with you; you can also fill it out at the office if you prefer, though this will add time to your visit. The DPS staff will review it for completeness before processing your replacement.
Replacement fees and how long it takes
The replacement fee is based on the remaining validity of your lost license. If your license was valid for five more years, you pay a prorated amount for those five years. If it was valid for one more year, you pay less. Texas does not charge a separate "replacement" fee — you pay only for the time left on the license you lost.
You have two options for receiving your replacement. If you choose standard mail delivery, the DPS will mail your new license to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. If you choose expedited service (available at some offices), you may receive it faster, though this option is not available at all locations. Ask the DPS staff which option is available at your office.
Getting a temporary paper license to drive now
If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, request a temporary paper license (also called a temporary driving permit) at the DPS office when you submit your replacement process. The temporary license is valid for 45 days and allows you to drive legally while you wait. You do not pay an extra fee for the temporary license — it is included with your replacement process.
The temporary license is printed on the spot and you take it with you. It is not a substitute for your actual license, so keep it with you whenever you drive. If your replacement license arrives before the 45 days are up, the temporary license becomes invalid.
Finding your nearest DPS office and what to expect
Use the DPS office locator on the Texas DPS website to find the office nearest you and check its hours. Most DPS offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations have extended hours or Saturday appointments. You do not need to schedule an appointment — walk-ins are accepted, but wait times vary by location and time of day.
Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get separated. The DPS staff will take your photograph for the new license, so dress as you would for any ID photo. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes at the counter, though wait times in the office itself can be longer during peak hours.
Requesting a new license number instead of keeping the old one
By default, your replacement license will have the same number as your lost license. If you want a new number instead, tell the DPS staff when you explore. You may want a new number if you are concerned about identity theft or if someone else has your lost license. There is no extra fee to request a new number.
A new number takes the same amount of time to process as a replacement with your old number. The DPS will issue the new number at the office or include it when your license arrives by mail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license if I do not have a Social Security number?
You can still replace your license, but you will need to bring additional identity documents. Call your local DPS office and describe what documents you have; the staff can tell you whether they will work before you make the trip.
What if my address has changed since my lost license was issued?
Tell the DPS staff when you explore for your replacement, and they will update your address on the new license. Bring proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease, to speed up the process.
Do I need to report my lost license to the police?
No, you do not need to file a police report to replace a lost license. The DPS does not require it. However, if you believe your license was stolen rather than lost, or if you are concerned about identity theft, you may want to file a report for your own records.
Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?
No. You must pick up your replacement license in person at the DPS office. If you requested mail delivery, the DPS will send it to your address on file, and you do not need to go back to the office.
What happens if my replacement license arrives damaged or with errors?
Contact your local DPS office and bring the damaged or incorrect license with you. The DPS will issue a corrected replacement at no extra charge. Bring your ID documents again so the staff can verify your information.