Missouri learner's permit replacement costs $11.50

If you lose, damage, or need to replace your Missouri learner's permit, the Department of Revenue charges a flat fee of $11.50. This is the same fee whether your permit was lost, stolen, worn out, or damaged. You pay it once, at the time you request the replacement.

The $11.50 covers the cost of issuing a new physical permit card. There are no additional processing fees, process fees, or hidden charges added on top of this amount. You pay only what the state charges.

If your permit has expired and you also need to renew it (rather than just replace it), you will pay the renewal fee instead, which is different. Replacement and renewal are separate transactions with separate costs.

Key Takeaways

  • A replacement learner's permit in Missouri costs $11.50, whether it was lost, stolen, or damaged.
  • You can request a replacement in person at any Missouri Department of Revenue office or by mail, and the fee is the same either way.
  • Replacement is different from renewal; if your permit has also expired, you will pay the renewal fee instead.
  • Your replacement permit will have the same expiration date as your original permit, so you do not lose time on your permit's validity.
  • Processing time is typically one to two weeks by mail, or same-day if you go in person to a local office.

Where to pay the replacement fee

You can replace your permit at any Missouri Department of Revenue office in person, or you can request a replacement by mail. If you go in person, you pay the $11.50 at the counter and receive your new permit the same day (or within a few hours). If you mail in your request, you send a check or money order for $11.50 along with your process form.

To find the nearest Department of Revenue office, visit the state's website and search for "driver license office locations." Most cities have at least one office, and many larger cities have multiple locations. Hours vary by office, so call ahead or check online before you go.

If you choose to mail in your replacement request, send your check or money order payable to "Missouri Department of Revenue" along with a completed process form. The address will be on the form or on the Department of Revenue website. Processing by mail typically takes one to two weeks from the date they receive your request.

What you need to bring or include

For an in-person replacement, bring your current identification (such as a state ID, passport, or birth certificate) and proof of your Social Security number. You do not need to bring your old permit if it is lost or stolen — the Department of Revenue can look up your record in their system. If your permit is damaged but you still have it, bring it along so they can see what happened.

For a mail-in replacement, you will need to complete the process form (available on the Department of Revenue website) and include a copy of your identification and proof of your Social Security number. Include your check or money order for $11.50. Do not send your original documents — send copies only.

You do not need to retake the written test or the vision screening to replace a permit. Replacement means you get a new card with the same information and the same expiration date as your original.

How long the replacement takes

If you replace your permit in person at a Department of Revenue office, you will receive your new permit the same day or within a few hours. You can usually drive away with it in hand.

If you mail in your request, expect one to two weeks for processing and delivery. The Department of Revenue processes mail requests in the order they arrive, so the exact time depends on how busy they are. During peak times (such as summer or after a holiday), processing may take slightly longer.

Your replacement permit will have the same expiration date as your original permit. You do not lose any time on your permit's validity when you replace it.

Replacement versus renewal

A replacement is what you do when your permit is lost, stolen, or damaged but has not yet expired. You keep the same expiration date and pay $11.50.

A renewal is what you do when your permit has expired or is about to expire. The renewal fee is different from the replacement fee and depends on how long you are renewing it for (usually one, three, or five years). If your permit has expired, you cannot straightforward replace it — you must renew it instead.

If your permit is both damaged and expired, contact your local Department of Revenue office to ask whether to replace or renew. They will tell you which one applies to your situation and what the cost will be.

What happens if you cannot pay in person

If you cannot visit a Department of Revenue office in person, mail-in replacement is your option. You send a check or money order — the Department of Revenue does not accept credit cards or online payment for replacements by mail.

If you do not have a checking account or cannot write a check, you can purchase a money order at most grocery stores, pharmacies, or banks for a small fee (usually $1 to $3). Make it payable to "Missouri Department of Revenue" and include it with your process form and copies of your identification.

Some Department of Revenue offices may accept payment by card if you call ahead and ask, but this varies by location. Call your local office to find out whether they offer this option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my permit if it is still valid but I just want a new one?

Yes. If your permit is worn, faded, or you straightforward want a new card, you can request a replacement and pay the $11.50 fee. The Department of Revenue treats this the same as a lost or damaged permit. Your new permit will have the same expiration date as the old one.

What if I lost my permit out of state?

You can still replace it through the Missouri Department of Revenue by mail. Send your process form, copies of your identification, and your check or money order to the address on the form. You do not need to be in Missouri to request a replacement.

Do I have to replace my permit before I can drive?

If your permit is lost or stolen, you should report it to the Department of Revenue and request a replacement as soon as you can. Technically, you cannot legally drive without a valid permit in your possession. However, if you are waiting for your replacement to arrive by mail, ask the Department of Revenue whether they can issue you a temporary permit or letter stating that you have applied for a replacement.

Will my replacement permit have a different number?

No. Your replacement permit will have the same permit number, expiration date, and all the same information as your original. Only the physical card is replaced.

Can someone else pick up my replacement permit for me?

If you are replacing your permit in person, you will need to go to the Department of Revenue office yourself to pick it up. They will not release it to someone else without your permission. Call your local office to ask whether they allow a family member or authorized person to pick it up on your behalf.