California Form 256 is the process for Duplicate or Corrected Driver License or Identification Card
Form 256 is the official California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) form you use when you need a replacement driver license or ID card because yours was lost, stolen, damaged, or contains an error. You submit this form in person at a DMV office, along with proof of identity and residency. The DMV processes it and issues you a new card, usually within one to two weeks if you choose standard processing.
You do not need Form 256 if you are renewing a license that has straightforward expired, or if you are explore for your first license or ID card — those use different forms. Form 256 is specifically for situations where you already have a valid California license or ID and something has gone wrong with it.
Key Takeaways
- Form 256 is used only when replacing a lost, stolen, damaged, or incorrect driver license or ID card, not for renewals or first-time applications.
- You must bring the completed form, proof of identity, proof of residency, and payment to a DMV office in person — you cannot mail it or submit it online.
- Standard processing takes one to two weeks; expedited processing is available for an additional fee if you need the card sooner.
- If your card was stolen, you may want to report it to the DMV by phone first, which can prevent someone else from using it fraudulently.
When to Use Form 256 Instead of Other Forms
The DMV offers different forms depending on what you need. Form 256 applies only when you are replacing a card that already exists. If your license expired and you want to renew it, you use Form DL 44 (if you need to take a test) or Form DL 43 (if you do not). If you are getting your first California license or ID card, you also use Form DL 44.
Form 256 covers four specific situations: your license or ID was lost, your card was stolen, your card is damaged or unreadable, or your card contains an error made by the DMV (such as a misspelled name or wrong address). If you fall into one of these categories, Form 256 is the correct form to submit.
What You Need to Bring to the DMV
Bring the following items when you go to submit Form 256 in person:
- Completed Form 256. Fill it out before you arrive. You can print it from the California DMV website or pick up a copy at the DMV office.
- Proof of identity. This can be your current California driver license or ID card (if you still have it), a U.S. passport, a birth certificate, or a military ID. The DMV accepts several documents — check the DMV website for the full list.
- Proof of California residency. Bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your current address. The document must be dated within the last 62 days.
- Payment. The fee for a duplicate or corrected driver license or ID card varies. As of 2024, the standard fee is around $30 to $35, but confirm the current amount on the DMV website or by calling your local office, as fees can change.
If your card was stolen, you may also want to bring a police report, though it is not required. Some people report the theft to the DMV by phone first to flag the card as stolen in the system, which can prevent fraud.
How to Complete Form 256
Form 256 is straightforward. At the top, enter your driver license or ID card number (if you remember it) or leave it blank if you do not. Fill in your full legal name, date of birth, and current address. Check the box that describes your situation: lost, stolen, damaged, or incorrect information.
Sign and date the form at the bottom. Do not sign it before you arrive at the DMV — some offices require you to sign in front of a staff member. If you are unsure, leave the signature line blank and ask when you check in.
You do not need to mail the form to the DMV. Bring it with you to your appointment or walk-in visit at a local DMV office.
Processing Time and Expedited Options
Standard processing for a duplicate or corrected driver license or ID card takes one to two weeks. The DMV mails the new card to your address on file. During this time, you can request a temporary paper license at the DMV office if you need to drive when ready.
If you need the card faster, the DMV offers expedited processing for an additional fee. Expedited service typically delivers the card within five to seven business days. Some DMV offices also offer same-day or next-day service for an even higher fee, but availability varies by location. Ask at your local DMV office what expedited options they have and what each costs.
If Your Information on the Card Is Wrong
If the DMV made an error on your card — such as misspelling your name, printing the wrong address, or listing the wrong restrictions — you still use Form 256 to request a corrected card. Check the box marked "incorrect information" and briefly describe the error in the space provided on the form.
Bring documentation that shows the correct information. For example, if your name is misspelled, bring a birth certificate or passport showing the correct spelling. If the address is wrong, bring a piece of mail or utility bill showing your correct address. The DMV will review your documents and issue a corrected card at no additional charge if the error was the DMV's mistake.
What Happens After You Submit Form 256
After you submit Form 256 and your documents at the DMV office, staff will verify your information, take a new photo if needed, and process your request. You will receive a receipt showing your process number and expected delivery date. Keep this receipt.
The new card will be mailed to the address you provided on the form. If you move before the card arrives, contact the DMV when ready with your new address so they can redirect it. If the card does not arrive within the timeframe given, call the DMV with your process number to check the status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit Form 256 by mail or online?
No. You must submit Form 256 in person at a California DMV office. The DMV does not accept mailed or online submissions for duplicate or corrected licenses. You can make an appointment online through the DMV website to reduce wait time, but you must appear in person.
Do I need a police report if my license was stolen?
No, a police report is not required to submit Form 256. However, if your card was stolen and you are concerned about fraud, filing a police report and providing a copy to the DMV can help protect you. Some people report the theft to the DMV by phone first to flag the card in the system.
What if I do not have proof of residency?
Proof of residency dated within the last 62 days is required. If you do not have a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement, the DMV accepts other documents such as a government check, court order, or property tax bill. Call your local DMV office to ask what alternative documents they will accept in your situation.
Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my new card?
Yes. When you submit Form 256 at the DMV office, you can request a temporary paper license that is valid for up to 60 days. This allows you to drive while your permanent card is being mailed to you. The temporary license is issued on the spot.
How much does Form 256 cost?
The standard fee for a duplicate or corrected driver license or ID card is approximately $30 to $35 as of 2024, though fees vary and can change. Expedited processing costs extra. Confirm the exact fee with your local DMV office or check the California DMV website before you go.