Lost License and Renewal Procedures in Wyoming
Maintaining a valid driver's license is essential for legal driving in Wyoming, and the state has established comprehensive procedures for both replacing lost licenses and renewing existing ones. The Wyoming Department of Transportation recognizes that drivers may occasionally lose their licenses or need to renew them as expiration dates approach. Understanding these procedures and preparing the necessary documentation in advance ensures efficient processing and continued legal driving privileges.
The state's approach to license replacement and renewal prioritizes security, accuracy, and convenience while maintaining strict identification standards. Whether you need to replace a lost license or renew an expiring one, Wyoming's procedures are designed to verify your identity, confirm your continued eligibility to drive, and update your records as necessary. These processes serve important public safety functions while providing essential services to Wyoming residents.
License Replacement Requirements
When a driver's license or state identification card is lost, stolen, or damaged beyond use, Wyoming law requires specific procedures to obtain a replacement document. These procedures are designed to prevent fraud and ensure that only authorized individuals receive replacement licenses.
License replacement involves identity verification, documentation review, and often new photography to ensure the replacement license accurately reflects current information.
Lost License Replacement Procedures
In-State License Replacement
If you are currently in Wyoming, complete the process in person at a Wyoming driver examination office so staff can verify your identity and capture a new photo if needed.
Required Documentation for In-State Replacement
Primary Identity Verification: Valid U.S. passport or certified state-issued birth certificate.
Social Security Number Verification: Social Security card, W-2, or bank statement showing full SSN.
Wyoming Residency Verification (2 documents): Recent (typically within 30 days) utility bills, bank statements, rental agreements, insurance policies, or employer records showing current address.
Out-of-State License Replacement
If you lose your Wyoming license while temporarily out of state, you may request a temporary driving permit from WYDOT by mail or available online services.
Temporary Permit Option: Provides legal driving authorization while arranging permanent replacement.
Time Limitations: Temporary permits are valid for up to 60 days; you’re expected to return to Wyoming within that period to complete replacement.
Extended Absence Procedures: If you cannot return within 60 days, submit required documentation by mail to request a permanent replacement license.
Mail-In Documentation: Include all in-state documents plus a Forwarding Request Form authorizing WYDOT to mail your license to an out-of-state address.
License Plate Considerations: If you also lost vehicle registration or license plates while out of state, address both driver’s license and vehicle registration issues together to avoid complications.
Driver's License Renewal Procedures
Wyoming licenses have specific validity periods, and renewal updates your photo, verifies residency, confirms identity, and checks continued fitness to drive.
Renewal Timeline and Notifications
Standard Validity: Most licenses are valid for 10 years.
Advance Notification: WYDOT sends reminder letters about 120 days before expiration with instructions, fees, and options.
Available Renewal Methods
By Mail: Available to eligible drivers. Submit at least 30 days before expiration. No new photo; vision attestation required (completed within the past year). Include application, vision form, payment, and any address change documentation.
In Person: Available to all drivers. Same-day processing with new photograph. Vision test at the office and full documentation required (identity, SSN, and residency).
Online: Not available.
When In-Person Renewal Is Required
Ten-Year Rule: Every resident must renew in person at least once every 10 years.
New Photography: Ensures your image is current for identification.
Information Updates: Staff verify and update address, name, and other data.
Documentation Summary
Proof of Identity: Required for in-state replacement and in-person renewal.
Social Security Number: Required for in-state and out-of-state replacement, and in-person renewal.
Wyoming Residency: Two documents for replacements; verification for renewals and updates.
Forwarding Request Form: Required for out-of-state replacement by mail.
Vision Test/Attestation: Mail renewal requires a vision attestation (within 1 year); in-person renewal includes a vision test at the office.
Medical/Vision Evaluations: May be required depending on medical conditions.
Additional Requirements for Specific License Types
Vision Testing: Required for all in-person renewals.
Medical Evaluation: May be required for certain medical conditions.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): Must provide a current federal DOT Medical Certificate.
Hazardous Materials Endorsement: Hazmat written test is required at each renewal.
Fees and Payment
License Renewal: Standard $15; Commercial $20; Motorcycle $3 (typically added).
License Replacement: Standard $20; Commercial $25; Motorcycle $3.
Temporary Permit: Varies; valid up to 60 days.
Vision Test: Included with in-person renewal.
Medical Evaluation: Additional fees may apply if required.
Accepted Payment Methods
Cash: Often accepted; exact change preferred.
Checks/Money Orders: Widely accepted, especially for mail renewals.
Credit/Debit Cards: Accepted at many offices (processing fees may apply).
Processing Times & Deadlines
Mail Renewal: 4–6 weeks; submit 30+ days before expiration.
In-Person Renewal: Same day; valid 10 years.
Lost License Replacement (In-Person): Same day; validity typically 10 years (per license cycle).
Out-of-State Temporary Permit: 1–2 weeks; valid up to 60 days.
Out-of-State Replacement by Mail: 4–6 weeks; complete within 60 days of temporary permit if issued.
The comprehensive nature of Wyoming's license renewal and replacement procedures reflects the state's commitment to maintaining accurate driver records while providing convenient services to residents. Understanding these procedures and preparing appropriate documentation ensures efficient processing and continued legal driving privileges for all Wyoming drivers.