Replace your license or instruction permit

Note: If your driver license will expire within 3 months, please renew it instead.

How to replace your driver license or instruction permit online

  • You can replace your license or permit online if:
    • You have a valid, unexpired driver license or permit.
    • We have your Social Security number and current address on file.
    • You’re at least 18 years old. If not, you and your parent or guardian must go to a driver licensing office.
  • You can’t replace your license online if:
    • You’ve done so within the last 12 months.
    • You need to replace a commercial driver license (CDL).
    • You moved out of state.
    • You changed your name from what’s printed on your license.
    • Your record shows you have any of the following:
      • A dishonored check
      • Unpaid traffic fines
      • Unpaid reissuance fee
      • A suspension
      • A revocation
      • A cancellation

How you’ll get your license

  • When you’re done renewing online, print the receipt to use as a temporary license. It will allow you to drive legally, but can’t be used for photo ID since it doesn’t include your photo or signature.
  • We’ll mail an exact copy of your license to the residence address we have on file. You should get it within 10 days. If you don’t get it within 45 days, contact us at drivers@dol.wa.gov.

How to replace your license or permit at an office

Visit a driver licensing office and bring:

  • Your proof of identity.
  • Your glasses or contacts if you need them to pass the eye exam.
  • Payment for the fee. You may pay with:
    • Cash
    • Check
    • MasterCard and American Express credit or debit cards, and some Visa debit cards.
      • Credit and debit cards not accepted at Coulee Dam, Davenport, Friday Harbor, Forks, Goldendale, Newport, Republic, or South Bend.
      • A vendor-charged convenience fee is added to payments made with a debit or credit card.
  • If you’re under 18, your parent or guardian must come with you to sign an affidavit.

How you’ll get your license

You’ll get a temporary license or permit at the driver license office. You should get your replacement license or permit in the mail within 10 days. If you don’t get it within 45 days, contact us at drivers@dol.wa.gov.

Vertical-format licenses for minors

If you’re replacing a vertical-format license because you’re under 21, your replacement will also be in a vertical format. You must wait until you renew and you’re at least 21 years old to have a license in the standard horizontal format.

Access Washington