Replacing a Lost License in Virginia

So you accidentally ran your driver's license through the wash one too many times. Or your puppy got a hold of it, and now it's unrecognizable. When your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, it's time to get a replacement. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) makes the process easy.

While you're at it, this is also a good time to notify the DMV of an address or name change, change your voter registration address, register to vote, or update your organ donor status.

You might want the DMV to issue you a duplicate license for any of these reasons:

• Your license was lost or stolen.

• Your license was torn, damaged, or mutilated.

• You changed your name or address.

• You had laser surgery and want your vision restriction removed.

• You want to change your voter registration address or register to vote.

• You want to change your organ donor status.

• You want to replace the Social Security number on your license with a DMV-issued customer number.

Replacing Your License in Person

To obtain a duplicate (replacement) driver's license or learner's permit, you can visit any DMV customer service center. Simply complete the Driver's License, Identification Card, and Voter Registration Application, form DL 1M (this form is not available online).

You will need to present two acceptable forms of ID (one if you are younger than 19). You might also need to provide one proof of legal presence, unless you have already proven it and it has not yet expired.

Replacing Your License Online

Some people can replace their driver's licenses online using a DMV-issued PIN. If you choose to do it this way, the DMV will use your existing photo. To have a new photo taken, you must visit a customer service center and apply in person.

If you lose your license while traveling outside of Virginia, you must obtain a duplicate online. You'll be asked to pay by credit or debit card. The duplicate will be mailed within five days.

There are a number of conditions that might prevent you from replacing your license online, such as when:

• You are younger than 18.

• You have a commercial driver's license (CDL).

• Your license has been suspended or revoked.

• You are age 80 or older (you must pass a vision screening).

• Your driver's license has expired.

ID Cards and Other Licenses

If you also hold a Virginia state ID card, a CDL, or a driver's license from another state or country, you must surrender it before you can get a replacement Virginia driver's license. You cannot hold more than one license, nor can you have both a license and an ID card.

Renewing Your License

If your license is going to expire in less than two years, you can choose to renew it instead of getting a duplicate driver's license.

Fees

The cost for a replacement driver's license is $20. The DMV accepts cash, checks, e-checks, money orders, check cards, and credit cards (Discover, MasterCard and Visa).

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