Virginia DMV will issue you a replacement learner's permit if yours is lost, stolen, or damaged

You can replace a learner's permit through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles in person or by mail. The process takes about two weeks by mail or same-day if you visit a DMV office. You'll need to pay a replacement fee (currently $7 for a permit), bring proof of identity and residency, and complete a short form. If your permit was stolen, you may need to report it to local police first, though this requirement varies by DMV location.

Virginia does not require you to retake the written knowledge test to get a replacement permit, as long as your original permit is still valid and hasn't expired. If your permit has already expired, you'll need to explore for a new one and take the test again.

Key Takeaways

  • You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged learner's permit by visiting a Virginia DMV office or mailing a completed form with payment and documents.
  • A replacement permit costs $7 and does not require you to retake the written test if your original permit is still valid.
  • In-person replacement at a DMV office is usually same-day; mail replacement takes about two weeks.
  • You must bring a valid photo ID and proof of Virginia residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
  • If your permit was stolen, some DMV offices ask you to file a police report, so call your local office first to confirm what they require.

What documents you need to bring or mail

Virginia requires two main pieces of documentation: a valid photo ID and proof of your current address in Virginia. Your photo ID can be a passport, military ID, or another government-issued ID with your photograph. If you don't have a photo ID yet, you can use a combination of documents like a birth certificate plus a Social Security card, though this is less common for permit replacements.

For proof of residency, bring an original or copy of a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and Virginia address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill or credit card statement usually does not count. If you live with a parent or guardian and are not on the utility bill, bring a notarized letter from the person whose name appears on the bill, plus their ID.

Replacing your permit in person at a DMV office

Visit your local Virginia DMV office with your documents and payment. You do not need an appointment for a replacement permit, though some offices accept them. Bring the documents listed above, $7 in cash or card, and be prepared to wait. Processing time is usually 15 to 30 minutes, and you'll receive your new permit the same day.

Call your local DMV office before you go if your permit was stolen. Some offices require a police report number or a written statement that the permit was stolen; others do not. Having this information ready will speed up your visit. You can find your nearest office and its phone number on the Virginia DMV website.

Replacing your permit by mail

Complete Form DL 44 (process for Driver's License or Learner's Permit) and mail it to the Virginia DMV with your documents and payment. Include a copy of your photo ID and proof of residency, a check or money order for $7 made payable to the Virginia DMV, and a brief note explaining that you need a replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged).

Mail your packet to: Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, P.O. Box 27412, Richmond, VA 23269. Processing by mail takes about two weeks from the date the DMV receives your packet. You can track your process status on the Virginia DMV website using your driver's license number or Social Security number. If your permit is lost in the mail, contact the DMV when ready; they can reissue it.

What to do if your permit was stolen

Contact your local police department and file a report for the stolen permit. You do not always need the report to get a replacement, but having one protects you if someone tries to use your permit. Ask the police for a report number or a copy of the report, and bring it to the DMV or include it with your mail process.

If you're concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting one of them. They will notify the others. This is a free service and does not affect your credit. A fraud alert tells lenders to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.

If your permit has expired or is about to expire

If your learner's permit has already expired, you cannot straightforward replace it. Instead, you must explore for a new permit and retake the written knowledge test. You'll need to complete Form DL 44, pay the $7 permit fee, bring your documents, and schedule a test appointment at a DMV office.

If your permit is still valid but will expire soon, replace it now rather than waiting. A replacement permit is valid for the same length of time as your original permit (usually five years from the date of issue). Replacing it early does not shorten its validity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my permit online?

No. Virginia does not offer online replacement for learner's permits. You must visit a DMV office in person or mail your process and documents. Some DMV services are available online, but permit replacement is not one of them.

How long is a replacement permit valid?

Your replacement permit is valid for the same length of time as your original permit, which is typically five years from the date it was first issued. The replacement does not reset the expiration date.

Do I need a police report to replace a stolen permit?

It depends on your local DMV office. Some require a report number; others do not. Call your nearest DMV office before you go to find out what they need. If you file a report, bring the report number or a copy with you.

What if I lost my permit and don't remember my address?

The DMV has your address on file from your original permit process. Bring any proof of your current Virginia address, and the DMV can verify it in their system. If you've moved since you got your permit, bring proof of your new address.

Can I get a replacement permit the same day if I mail it?

No. Mail replacement takes about two weeks. If you need your permit urgently, visit a DMV office in person for same-day service. Some offices are busier than others, so call ahead to ask about wait times.