If you need to replace your California driver’s license, you can easily fill out an application on the DMV’s website and submit it online or in person. You won’t have to submit any additional documentation, but you will need to pay a $31 fee.

Your driver’s license is one of the most important items you carry with you daily. If it gets lost or stolen, it’s best to get a replacement as soon as possible. The penalties for driving without a license in California include up to six months in jail and $1,000 in fines.

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How to replace a lost driver’s license in California

Whether you lost your wallet at the bar or you were the unfortunate victim of a crime, the process to replace a lost driver’s license is fairly simple in California. This could even be a great excuse to upgrade to a Real ID if you don’t have one already. Either way, be prepared to pay a $31 replacement fee to complete your request.

Replacing a lost California license online

To request your replacement license online, you’ll need an

online account

with the California DMV. Once you log in, you’ll be able to submit your request without any major hassles or extra documentation. You’ll be able to pay your fee online, but you’ll be charged an additional 2.1% processing fee if you pay with a credit or debit card.

Once you’ve submitted your request, you should be mailed your new driver’s license within two to four weeks.

Replacing a lost California license in person

If you would rather go in person, or want to upgrade your license to a federally recognized Real ID, you can visit your local DMV office to submit your request. But first, you’ll need to download an application

online

to bring to the DMV with you.

If you’re just replacing a standard license, you won’t need to bring any additional materials. If you take this opportunity to upgrade your license, you’ll need to bring the following

documentation

Proof of identity

Social Security Number (SSN)

Two documents proving your California residency

You can

schedule an appointment

or test your luck with

walk-in times

at your local DMV to submit your application. Once there, you’ll finalize your request by paying the replacement fee, showing your documentation (if applicable), getting your photograph validated, and scanning your thumbprint.

Once your application is done, you’ll be given a 60-day temporary license to use until you receive your new one in the mail. If you don’t receive your new license in four to six weeks, you can call 1-800-777-0133 to check your status.

In some cases, replacing a lost license online isn’t an option. That’s likely to be true if your identifying information has changed, or if you used the online service the last time you renewed your license.

It’s also typically faster to replace a lost license in person, so if it’s an option, head to

your nearest FLHSMV location

Check the FLHSMV’s

What To Bring

page for a detailed list of the documents you may need to replace your license based on citizenship and immigration status. In general, you can expect to need:

Proof of identity (e.g., a birth certificate or passport)

Social Security documents (e.g., your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form)

Proof of address (e.g., a mortgage statement, utility bill, or car insurance bill)

You can fill out all the necessary paperwork and pay your $25 replacement fee at the DMV. You’ll still need to wait a few weeks to receive your license in the mail, but you’ll be issued a temporary document so that you can continue to drive legally.

What if you lose your California license out of state?

If you misplace your license while out of the state, you can easily request your replacement online—no matter where you are. If you would rather apply in person, you’ll have to wait until you are back in California to physically appear at your local DMV office.

MORE:

Driving without a license: What are the penalties?

How to save money on car insurance in California

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