Replacing a Lost License

Cover Your Bases

Losing anything is frustrating, especially if it's your wallet with your credit cards, cash, and driver's license. Luckily the Department of Licensing makes it easy to replace your lost license.

One thing you don't have to worry about is filing a police report―the DOL doesn't require you to. However, it would still be wise to notify credit reporting agencies of the loss. This will make it harder for someone to steal your identity.

The three credit-reporting agencies are Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax.

How to Order a Duplicate

Now that you have that important step out of the way, you can head over to your
Licensing Service Office (or your EDL/ID office locations, if you're replacing an Enhanced Driver License) to apply for a replacement license. You will have to provide proof of identity and pay a $15 fee to be issued another license.

Replace Your License Online

Alternatively, you may apply for a duplicate license online and pay the $15 fee by credit card. You may only do this if your license was a digitized license issued after June 2001 and if your license is not an EDL.

There are other restrictions on who may apply for a duplicate license online. You may not do so, and must apply in person, if:

• You are under 18. In this case, you will need to provide proof of identity and parental authorization in person.

• You have unpaid traffic tickets.

• You've moved and reported your change of address less than 30 days ago.

• You've changed your name.

• You've replaced your license over the Internet in the past year.

The Department of Licensing provides additional in-depth information about replacing your license online.

Ordering a Duplicate While Out of State

If you're away from home when your license is lost or stolen, you can get a replacement through the mail. You will need to provide your:

• Full name.

• Social Security number.

• Driver license number.

• Reason for the replacement.

• Return address.

• Blank sheet of white paper with signature.

• Check or money order for $15.

Send the above documents and fee to this address:

• Department of Licensing

• Technical Reporting

• P.O. Box 9048

• Olympia, WA 98507-9048

Your replacement license will have no photo, but it is still valid as proof of your driving privileges. The license will have "Not Valid for Identification" printed on it since you won't be able to provide the necessary proof of identity until you return to Washington.