Getting a replacement license in Texas

If you've lost your Texas driver's license, you can get a replacement by visiting a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person. You'll need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and pay a replacement fee. The process takes about 30 minutes at the office, and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot while your plastic card is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

You cannot replace a lost license by mail or online in Texas. You must appear in person at a DPS driver license office. If you live far from an office or have mobility issues, you can request a mobile unit visit to your location, though this requires advance scheduling and is limited to certain areas.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS driver license office in person with proof of identity and residency to get a replacement license.
  • The replacement fee is $16 for a standard five-year license or $32 for an eight-year license, and you choose which length you want.
  • You'll receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
  • If you cannot reach an office, you can request a mobile unit visit through DPS, though availability depends on your location.

What documents you need to bring

Bring one document that proves your identity and one that proves you live in Texas. For identity, DPS accepts a U.S. passport, military ID, certified birth certificate, or a previous Texas driver's license or ID card. If you bring a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy with a raised seal, not a photocopy.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name with your current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you don't have a utility bill or lease, you can bring a bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail addressed to you at your current address.

If your name has changed since your last license (through marriage, divorce, or court order), bring the document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring the original or a certified copy.

Finding a DPS office and scheduling

You can find your nearest DPS driver license office on the Texas DPS website at dps.texas.gov. The site has a location finder that shows office hours and whether you need an appointment. Many offices now require appointments, especially in urban areas, though some still accept walk-ins during specific hours.

To schedule an appointment, visit the DPS website and select your county and office. You'll see available time slots for the next several weeks. Appointments typically fill up 2 to 4 weeks in advance in busy areas, so book early if you need your replacement quickly. If no appointments are available, check back daily—cancellations open up regularly.

If you cannot reach an office easily, call the DPS at 1-844-DPS-TEXAS (1-844-377-8329) to ask about mobile unit visits to your area. Mobile units serve rural and underserved locations on a rotating schedule, but availability is limited and you must request a visit in advance.

The replacement fee and payment methods

A standard five-year replacement license costs $16. If you want an eight-year license instead, the fee is $32. You pay at the DPS office when you submit your documents. DPS accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards—check with your specific office about which cards they take, as some rural offices may have limited payment options.

If you cannot afford the fee, ask the DPS office about fee waivers. Texas does not have a statewide hardship waiver program, but individual offices may work with you on a case-by-case basis. Call ahead to discuss your situation before you visit.

What happens after you submit your documents

When you hand in your documents at the DPS office, staff will verify your identity and residency, take your photo, and process your replacement. Before you leave, you'll receive a temporary paper license that's valid for driving when ready. This temporary license is good for 45 days while your plastic card is being printed and mailed.

Your permanent plastic license arrives by U.S. mail within 7 to 10 business days. Mail delivery times vary by location, so allow up to two weeks if you live in a rural area. Once your plastic card arrives, the temporary paper license is no longer valid, so destroy it.

If your plastic card doesn't arrive within two weeks, contact the DPS at 1-844-377-8329 with your case number (printed on your temporary license). They can check the status and remail your card if needed.

If your license was stolen or you suspect fraud

If someone stole your license or you think it's being used fraudulently, report it to the DPS when you explore for your replacement. Tell the staff member at the office that your license was stolen. DPS will flag your old license number as invalid so it cannot be used for identification or to obtain services.

If you believe someone used your license to get credit, open accounts, or commit fraud, also file a report with the Texas Attorney General's Identity Theft Unit at texasattorneygeneral.gov or call 1-800-252-8011. Keep a copy of your DPS case number and the date you reported the theft—you may need it if fraud appears on your credit report later.

Replacing a license while out of state

If you're living temporarily out of state but your Texas license is still valid, you can request a replacement by mail through the DPS. Visit the Texas DPS website and look for the "Mail Renewal" option. You'll need to submit a form, copies of your identity and residency documents, and a check or money order for the replacement fee. Processing takes 4 to 6 weeks by mail.

If you've moved to another state permanently, you should get a driver's license from your new state instead of replacing your Texas license. Once you have a new state's license, your Texas license becomes invalid. If you move back to Texas later, you can renew your Texas license or get a new one depending on how much time has passed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with just the temporary paper license?

Yes. The temporary paper license is valid for driving for 45 days. You can use it for any purpose a regular license serves—traffic stops, identification, renting a car—until your plastic card arrives or the 45 days expire, whichever comes first.

What if I lost my license and my vehicle registration at the same time?

Handle them separately. Get your replacement license at a DPS driver license office. For your vehicle registration, contact your county tax assessor-collector's office or visit their website to request a duplicate registration. Both processes take about two weeks by mail.

Do I need to report my lost license to the police?

No, reporting to police is not required. You only need to report it to DPS when you explore for your replacement. If you suspect fraud or identity theft, then file a separate report with the Texas Attorney General's Identity Theft Unit.

How much does it cost if I lost my license multiple times?

Each replacement costs $16 for a five-year license or $32 for an eight-year license, regardless of how many times you've replaced it before. There is no penalty fee for multiple replacements, though DPS staff may ask questions if you replace your license very frequently.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. You must pick up your temporary paper license in person at the DPS office. Your plastic card is mailed to the address you provide, so anyone at that address can receive it, but you must be present to get the temporary license.