Connecticut charges $20 to replace a lost learner's permit

If you lose your Connecticut learner's permit, the Department of Motor Vehicles will issue a replacement for a $20 fee. You do not need to retake the written test or the vision screening — you are straightforward getting a duplicate of the permit you already earned. The replacement permit is valid for the same expiration date as your original.

You can request a replacement in person at any DMV branch or by mail. The in-person route is faster if you need the permit quickly, though both methods involve the same $20 cost.

Key Takeaways

  • Connecticut charges $20 to replace a lost learner's permit, regardless of whether you go in person or by mail.
  • You do not retake any tests when replacing a lost permit — the DMV issues a duplicate of your existing one.
  • In-person replacement at a DMV branch typically takes a few minutes, while mail requests take one to two weeks.
  • Bring your Social Security number, date of birth, and proof of Connecticut residency when replacing in person.
  • If your permit was stolen, you may want to report it to local police before requesting a replacement, though this is not required by the DMV.

How to replace your permit in person at a DMV branch

Walk into any Connecticut DMV office during business hours with your Social Security number, date of birth, and a document showing your current Connecticut address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement works. Tell the clerk you need a replacement learner's permit. Pay the $20 fee and you will receive your new permit on the spot.

Bring your ID if you have one, though the DMV can verify your identity through their records. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Connecticut DMV branches are open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with some locations offering Saturday hours. Check the DMV website for your nearest branch and its specific hours before you go.

Requesting a replacement by mail

Write a letter to the Connecticut DMV stating that you lost your learner's permit and are requesting a replacement. Include your full name, date of birth, Social Security number, Connecticut address, and the expiration date of your original permit if you know it. Enclose a check or money order for $20 made out to "State of Connecticut DMV."

Mail your request to the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles, 60 State Street, Wethersfield, CT 06161. Processing takes one to two weeks from the date the DMV receives your letter. You will receive your replacement permit by mail at the address you provided. Keep a copy of your letter for your records in case you need to follow up.

What to do if your permit was stolen

If someone stole your learner's permit rather than you straightforward losing it, you may want to file a report with your local police department. This creates a record in case the permit is used fraudulently, though it is not required to get a replacement from the DMV. The police report does not affect the $20 replacement fee or the process itself.

When you request your replacement, you do not need to mention the theft to the DMV — just follow the standard replacement steps. If you are concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) at no cost.

Timeline for getting your replacement permit

In-person replacement is the fastest option. You walk out of the DMV with your new permit the same day, usually within 15 minutes. This is the best choice if you need to drive with a supervising adult soon or if your original permit is expiring within the next few weeks.

Mail replacement takes longer. After the DMV receives your letter, processing takes one to two weeks, and then delivery by postal mail adds another few days. Plan for three to four weeks total from the date you mail your request. If you are in a rush, the in-person route is always faster.

Your permit's expiration date does not change

Your replacement learner's permit will have the same expiration date as your original. If your original permit was set to expire in six months, your replacement will also expire in six months — the clock does not reset. This means if you lost your permit close to its expiration date, your replacement will also be expiring soon.

When your learner's permit expires, you will need to renew it through the standard renewal process, which involves retaking the written test and vision screening. The $20 replacement fee covers only the duplicate permit itself, not a renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to retake the written test to get a replacement permit?

No. A replacement permit is a duplicate of your existing permit. You do not retake any tests or screenings. The DMV straightforward issues a new card with the same information and expiration date as your original.

Can I replace my permit online?

Connecticut does not offer online replacement for learner's permits. You must go in person to a DMV branch or mail your request. In-person is faster if you need the permit quickly.

What if I do not know my Social Security number?

Bring a document that shows your Social Security number, such as a tax return, W-2, or Social Security card. If you do not have one, contact the DMV before you go in person — they can tell you what alternative documents they will accept.

Does the $20 fee cover anything else besides the replacement permit?

No. The $20 is only for the replacement permit itself. If you need to renew your permit when it expires, that is a separate process with its own fee. Duplicate or replacement documents are always $20.

What if I lost my permit and my address has changed since I got it?

Bring your new address proof when you go in person, and the DMV will update your address on the replacement permit at no extra cost. If you are replacing by mail, include your current address in your letter and the DMV will print it on your new permit.