What DMV Form 14 Is and When You Use It
DMV Form 14 is an process for a duplicate or replacement driver's license or identification card. You file it when your current license is lost, stolen, damaged, or worn beyond legibility. The form itself is short — usually one page — but the process of submitting it and receiving your replacement involves specific steps that vary slightly by state.
Most states accept Form 14 in person at a DMV office, by mail, or through an online portal if your state offers one. Some states call this form by a different name or number, so checking your state DMV website before you go is the fastest way to confirm you have the right document. The replacement card typically arrives by mail within one to three weeks, though expedited options exist in some states for an additional fee.
You do not need Form 14 if you are renewing a license that is still valid, changing your address, or updating your name — those are separate transactions with their own forms. Form 14 is specifically for getting a physical replacement of a card you already held.
Key Takeaways
- DMV Form 14 is used to request a replacement driver's license or ID card when yours is lost, stolen, damaged, or illegible.
- Most states require you to bring proof of identity and residency to submit the form in person, though some allow mail or online submission.
- The replacement card usually arrives within one to three weeks by standard mail, and faster options may cost extra.
- Your state DMV website will confirm the exact form name, required documents, and whether you can submit by mail or online.
- If your license was stolen, some states require you to report it to police or file a theft report before explore for a replacement.
How to Get and Complete Form 14
You can obtain DMV Form 14 from your state's DMV website, usually as a PDF you print at home. Many DMV offices also have printed copies at the counter. Some states no longer use a paper form at all — instead, you complete the process on a computer kiosk or through an online portal when you arrive or before you visit.
The form asks for your current driver's license number, your full legal name, date of birth, and the reason you need a replacement (lost, stolen, damaged, or illegible). You will also declare whether you want to keep the same address on your new card or update it. If you are explore by mail, you typically need to sign the form in front of a notary public or mail it with a copy of your current license as proof of identity.
Read the instructions on your state's DMV website before filling it out. Some states require you to complete the form in black or blue ink only, while others accept photocopies or printed versions. A few states have specific sections you must leave blank if you are submitting by mail — the DMV will fill those in when they process your request.
Documents and Proof You Will Need
Bring your completed Form 14 along with proof of identity and proof of residency. Proof of identity usually means a passport, birth certificate, or Social Security card. Proof of residency is typically a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and current address — it must be dated within the last 60 days in most states.
If your license was stolen, many states require a police report number or a signed statement that you reported the theft. Call your local police non-emergency line or file a report online through your city's website before you go to the DMV. Bring the report number or a copy of the report with you.
If you are submitting by mail, requirements are stricter. You will usually need to include a notarized copy of your form, a photocopy of your current license, and copies of your proof documents. Some states accept a certified copy of your birth certificate instead of notarization. Check your state DMV website for the exact list — mailing the wrong documents will delay your replacement by weeks.
Submitting Form 14 In Person, By Mail, or Online
The fastest way to submit Form 14 is in person at a DMV office. Bring your completed form, proof of identity, proof of residency, and the fee (usually $15 to $30, depending on your state). You will have your photo taken, and your replacement card will be mailed to you within one to three weeks. Some DMV offices offer walk-in service; others require an appointment. Check your state's website or call ahead to confirm hours and whether you need to book a time slot.
If you submit by mail, include your completed form, a notarized signature or a photocopy of your current license, copies of your proof documents, and a check or money order for the fee. Mail everything to the address listed on your state DMV website. Processing takes longer by mail — typically four to six weeks — because the DMV must verify your documents before they produce your card. Include a return address and consider using certified mail so you can track the package.
Some states now allow you to request a replacement online through their DMV portal. You will upload photos of your proof documents, pay the fee by credit or debit card, and your replacement will be mailed to you. This method is usually faster than mail and more convenient than visiting an office, but it is not available in every state. Check your state DMV website to see if this option exists where you live.
Fees and Processing Times
The cost of a replacement driver's license or ID card ranges from $15 to $35 depending on your state and whether you choose standard or expedited processing. Standard processing takes one to three weeks by mail. Expedited options, where available, cost extra — usually $10 to $25 more — and can reduce the wait to five to ten business days.
Some states waive the fee if your card was stolen and you provide a police report. A few states charge less for a replacement than for a renewal, so if your license is expiring soon, you may want to confirm whether replacing it now or waiting to renew is cheaper. Your state DMV website will list the exact fee for your situation.
If you need your replacement urgently and your state does not offer expedited mail, ask whether you can pick up a temporary paper license at the DMV office while you wait for your card to arrive. Not all states issue temporary licenses, but some do, and it can serve as valid identification for driving and other purposes in the meantime.
What to Do If Your License Was Stolen
If your license was stolen rather than lost, report the theft to your local police department before or at the same time you submit Form 14. You can file a report in person, by phone, or online through your city's police website. Write down the report number — you will need it when you explore for your replacement.
Include the police report number on Form 14 or bring a copy of the report with you to the DMV. This protects you if someone tries to use your stolen license fraudulently. It also alerts the DMV to flag your old license as invalid, which prevents someone else from using it to obtain services in your name.
If you are concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert on your credit report by contacting one of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion). This is a separate step from replacing your license, but it adds a layer of protection if your stolen license is used to open accounts or make purchases.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not submit Form 14 without proof of residency. The DMV will reject your process and return it, delaying your replacement by weeks. Utility bills, lease agreements, and bank statements are the most common forms of proof — make sure whatever you bring is dated within the last 60 days and shows your current address.
If you are mailing your process, do not forget to have your signature notarized or include a photocopy of your current license. The DMV cannot process unsigned forms or forms without proof that you are who you say you are. Notarization costs $5 to $15 at most banks, UPS stores, or notary publics in your area.
Do not assume your state's form is called Form 14. Some states use different names or numbers for the same document. Check your state DMV website before you print anything or visit an office. Showing up with the wrong form wastes your time and may require you to return for a second visit.
If your license was stolen, do not skip the police report. Many states require it, and even where it is optional, filing a report protects you legally and prevents someone from using your stolen license to commit fraud.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a replacement license the same day I explore?
Same-day replacement is not standard. Most states mail your replacement card within one to three weeks. A few states offer expedited processing for an extra fee, reducing the wait to five to ten business days. Some DMV offices issue temporary paper licenses while you wait, which you can use for driving and identification purposes.
What if I lost my license and do not have a police report?
You can still submit Form 14 without a police report in most states. However, if your license was stolen, filing a report protects you from fraud and is required in some states. You can file a police report online or by phone after you submit your replacement request.
Do I need to renew my license if I am just replacing it?
No. A replacement is a new physical card with the same information and expiration date as your old one. You only renew when your license is about to expire or has expired. If your license is expiring soon, check your state DMV website to see whether replacing it now or waiting to renew is cheaper.
Can I change my address when I submit Form 14?
Yes. Form 14 includes a section where you can update your address. If you are moving, you can request a replacement with your new address at the same time. Some states charge the same fee for a replacement with an address change; others charge extra. Check your state DMV website for the cost.
What happens if I find my lost license after I request a replacement?
Contact your state DMV and let them know you found it. They may cancel your replacement request if you call before they process it. If your replacement has already been mailed, you will receive two cards — destroy the old one or return it to the DMV to prevent someone else from using it.