How to Replace a Drivers License in Texas
Lost, stolen, or damaged your Texas driver’s license? Don’t worry—replacing it is more straightforward than you might think.
This guide covers every method for replacing your Texas driver’s license, including online, in-person, and mail options. As driver education specialists serving Texans since 2015, Virtual Drive of Texas has helped thousands of Texans navigate the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requirements and procedures.
What Are Your Options for Replacing a Texas Driver’s License?
When you need to replace your Texas driver’s license, you have three primary options:
- Online replacement through Texas.gov or the Texas by Texas (TxT) mobile app
- In-person replacement at your local Texas DPS office
- By mail replacement (primarily for out-of-state residents or military personnel)
You’ll need to replace your license if it has been lost, stolen, significantly damaged, or has become illegible. Not everyone qualifies for all replacement methods—your eligibility depends on your residency status, license type, and personal circumstances.
Necessary restrictions to note:
- Expired licenses cannot be replaced (you’ll need to renew instead)
- If your name, address, or other personal information has changed, you may need to visit a DPS office.
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) holders may face additional requirements
How to Replace a Texas Driver’s License Online
The online replacement option is the quickest and most convenient method for most Texas residents. To be eligible for online replacement, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawful resident
- Have a regular (Class C) driver’s license or ID card
- Have a license that is not expired, suspended, or revoked
- Have no recent changes to your personal information
- Be between 18 and 78 years old
Online Replacement Steps:
- Visit the Texas.gov License Renewal and Replacement website or download the Texas by Texas (TxT) mobile app
- Select “Replace” as your service type
- Enter your:
- Texas driver’s license or ID card number (or audit number)
- Date of birth
- The last four digits of your Social Security Number
- Confirm your identity and mailing address
- Pay the $11 replacement fee with a credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express)
- Print your temporary license, which is valid for 60 days
- Wait for your permanent license to arrive by mail (typically within 2-3 weeks)
The online process typically takes less than 10 minutes to complete, and you’ll immediately receive a printable temporary license.
Apply Online for License Replacement
Replace Your Texas Driver’s License In-Person or By Mail
When to Replace In-Person
You’ll need to visit a DPS office in person if:
- Your license has expired
- You’re not a U.S. citizen
- You need to update your address, name, or other information
- You hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
- You don’t have the required information for online replacement
- You prefer not to replace online
In-Person Replacement Steps:
- Schedule a DPS Appointment (walk-ins are accepted at some locations, but wait times can be long)
- Complete Form DL-14A (Application for Texas Driver License or Identification Card)
- Bring required documentation:
- Proof of identity (such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or certificate of citizenship)
- Proof of Social Security Number
- Proof of Texas residency (two documents, such as utility bills, mortgage statements, or lease agreements)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence (for non-citizens)
- Pay the $11 replacement fee (additional fees may apply for certain services)
- Have your photo taken and provide your thumbprints
- Receive a temporary paper license valid for 60 days
- Your permanent license will arrive by mail within 2-3 weeks
By Mail Replacement (For Out-of-State Residents)
If you’re temporarily residing outside of Texas (including military personnel stationed elsewhere), you can request a replacement by mail:
- Download and complete Form DL-43 (Application for Driver License or Identification Card by Mail)
- Include a photocopy of your identity document
- Include a check or money order for $11, payable to the Texas Department of Public Safety
- Mail everything to: Texas Department of Public Safety License Issuance Bureau P.O. Box 149008 Austin, TX 78714-9008
The processing time for mail applications is typically 4-6 weeks, so plan accordingly.
What to Do if Your License Was Stolen
When your license is stolen rather than simply lost, take these additional steps to protect yourself from identity theft:
- File a police report with your local law enforcement agency. Request a copy of the report for your records.
- Consider requesting a new license number when you replace your license. While not required, a new number offers additional protection against identity theft. You’ll need to visit a DPS office in person to request this.
- Place a fraud alert with one of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion). When you alert one bureau, they’re required to notify the others.
- Monitor your credit reports for suspicious activity. You’re entitled to one free credit report annually from each bureau through AnnualCreditReport.com.
- Consider a credit freeze, which prevents creditors from accessing your credit report, making it difficult for identity thieves to open accounts in your name.
If you suspect your stolen license has led to identity theft, remember that you’re not alone. Report it to the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov. We’re here to support you through this process.
Identity Theft Protection Guide
REAL ID Compliance and License Replacement
Starting May 7, 2025, federal agencies will only accept REAL ID-compliant licenses and identification cards for official purposes, including boarding domestic flights and entering federal facilities. Not having a REAL ID-compliant license after this date may result in inconvenience and potential travel restrictions.
All replacement Texas driver’s licenses issued now are REAL ID compliant, indicated by a star in the upper right corner. Suppose your original license did not have this star. In that case, your replacement will automatically be upgraded to a REAL ID-compliant version if you have the necessary documentation on file with the DPS.
If you’re replacing your license in person and need to upgrade to a REAL ID, bring:
- Proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, etc.)
- Proof of Social Security Number
- Two documents proving Texas residency
- Proof of legal name changes (if applicable)
If you’re replacing an online document and have previously provided REAL ID documentation to DPS, your replacement should be automatically REAL ID compliant. If you are unsure whether your documentation is on file, please contact DPS or visit in person.
Special Considerations for Non-U.S. Citizens
Non-U.S. citizens must visit a DPS office in person to replace a lost or stolen license. You’ll need to bring:
- Your identity documents
- Proof of lawful presence in the United States, such as:
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- Employment Authorization Document
- Valid visa with I-94
- Other valid USCIS documents
- Proof of Social Security Number (if you have one)
- Two proofs of Texas residency
Non-U.S. citizens cannot replace their licenses online or by mail. The replacement license will have the same expiration date as your original license or the date your legal status expires, whichever comes first.
After Receiving Your Replacement License
Once you receive your replacement Texas driver’s license:
- Check all information for accuracy, including your name, address, date of birth, and license class
- Activate your license if required (follow any instructions included with your new license)
- Carry your temporary license until your permanent one arrives
- If you find your original license after receiving a replacement, do not use it; it is no longer valid and should be destroyed.
- Securely destroy your old license by cutting through the magnetic stripe and photo before disposing of it.
Your replacement license will have the same expiration date as your original license. It’s not an extension or renewal.
Need More Help?
Losing your driver’s license can be stressful, but replacing it doesn’t have to be complicated. By following the appropriate steps for your situation, you can quickly get a replacement and get back on the road.
If you’ve recently moved to Texas or need to understand more about Texas driver’s license requirements, check out our comprehensive guides:
Virtual Drive of Texas is committed to making driving-related processes as smooth as possible for all Texans. Whether you’re just starting your driving journey or need help with license-related issues, we’re here to help.
