What You Need to Do to Replace a Lost or Damaged Learner's Permit in Indiana
If your Indiana learner's permit is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement through the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). You do not need to retake the written test or vision screening — the BMV will issue a new permit with the same expiration date as your original. The process takes place at a BMV branch office or through the mail, and the fee is lower than explore for a new permit from scratch.
The key difference between a replacement and a new permit is that a replacement keeps your original issue and expiration dates intact. This matters because your permit's validity period does not restart. If your original permit was set to expire in eight months, your replacement will also expire in eight months, not a full year from the replacement date.
Key Takeaways
- You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged learner's permit at any BMV branch without retaking the written test or vision exam.
- A replacement permit keeps the same expiration date as your original permit, so you do not get extra time on your permit validity.
- The replacement fee is $20 if you explore in person at a BMV branch, or you can request one by mail with a completed form and payment.
- You must bring a valid photo ID and proof of your Social Security number to the BMV branch to receive a replacement on the spot.
- If your permit was damaged by water or wear, bring it with you so the BMV can see the condition and process the replacement faster.
In-Person Replacement at a BMV Branch
The fastest way to get a replacement learner's permit is to visit a BMV branch office in person. Bring your current photo ID (such as a passport or state ID), proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return), and the damaged permit if you have it. If your permit was lost or stolen, you do not need to bring it — just tell the BMV staff what happened.
The BMV will verify your identity and issue a new permit on the same day. The replacement fee is $20, payable by cash, check, or debit card at most branches. You will receive your new permit when ready and can begin driving with it right away. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the branch is.
To find the BMV branch nearest you, visit the Indiana BMV website and use the branch locator tool. Some branches accept walk-ins, while others operate by appointment only. Call ahead or check online to confirm hours and whether you need to schedule a time slot.
Mail-In Replacement Request
If you cannot visit a BMV branch, you can request a replacement permit by mail. Complete the process for Indiana Driver's License or Learner's Permit (Form DL 44) and include a check or money order for $20 made payable to the Indiana BMV. Do not send cash through the mail.
Include a copy of your photo ID and proof of your Social Security number with your process. If your original permit was damaged, you can include it with your mailed request so the BMV can see the condition. Mail your completed form and payment to the address listed on the BMV website for your county or region.
Processing time for mail-in requests is typically two to three weeks from the date the BMV receives your process. Your new permit will be mailed to the address on file. If you need the replacement sooner, visiting a branch in person is the faster option.
What Happens If Your Permit Was Stolen
If your learner's permit was stolen rather than lost or damaged, you can still request a replacement using the same process. You do not need to file a police report or provide documentation of the theft — straightforward tell the BMV staff that the permit was stolen when you request the replacement.
The BMV will issue a new permit with a different number than your original. This prevents someone else from using your old permit number if they find it or attempt to use it fraudulently. The replacement fee remains $20, and the new permit will have the same expiration date as your original.
Replacement Permit Expiration and Renewal
Your replacement permit will expire on the same date as your original permit. If your original permit was issued when you were 16 and set to expire at age 18, your replacement will also expire at age 18 — the replacement does not extend your permit validity.
When your permit is close to expiration, you will need to renew it through the standard renewal process, not through a replacement request. Renewal requires a new process, a new written test, and a new vision screening. Plan ahead so you do not miss the expiration date and lose your permit status.
Documents You Must Bring or Send
| Document Type | For In-Person Replacement | For Mail-In Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Valid photo ID | Original | Copy |
| Proof of Social Security number | Original | Copy |
| Damaged or lost permit | Bring if available | Include if available |
| Completed Form DL 44 | Not required (staff can help) | Required |
| Payment ($20) | Cash, check, or debit card | Check or money order only |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not assume your replacement permit will have a new expiration date. Many people request a replacement thinking they will get extra time on their permit, but the BMV keeps the original expiration date. If you need more time, you must renew your permit when it is close to expiring, not request a replacement.
If you are mailing your request, do not send cash. The BMV will not process applications that include cash in the envelope, and your payment will be lost. Use a check or money order instead, and keep a copy of your process for your records.
Do not forget to bring proof of your Social Security number. A Social Security card is the easiest form of proof, but a W-2, tax return, or other official document with your SSN will also work. Without this proof, the BMV cannot verify your identity and will not issue the replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a replacement permit if I never took the written test?
No. A replacement is only for permits that were already issued and are now lost, stolen, or damaged. If you never obtained a learner's permit in the first place, you must take the written test and vision screening to get one. A replacement assumes you already passed those tests.
How long does it take to get a replacement permit in the mail?
The BMV typically takes two to three weeks to process a mail-in replacement request after they receive it. Mailing time to and from the BMV is not included in this estimate. If you need a replacement sooner, visit a BMV branch in person to receive it the same day.
What if I lost my permit and do not remember the expiration date?
The BMV can look up your permit information using your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. When you visit a branch or submit a mail-in request, provide this information and the BMV will find your original permit details and issue a replacement with the correct expiration date.
Do I have to pay the replacement fee if my permit was damaged by the BMV?
Contact the BMV branch where your permit was issued and explain the damage. In rare cases where the BMV is responsible for the damage, they may waive the replacement fee. Most damage claims require documentation or a statement from BMV staff, so call ahead before visiting.
Can someone else pick up my replacement permit for me?
If you requested a replacement by mail, the permit will be mailed to your address on file and anyone at that address can receive it. If you are requesting a replacement in person but cannot go yourself, contact the BMV to ask whether a family member or authorized representative can pick it up with a signed letter from you and a copy of your ID.