What you need to do to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged learner's permit

A replacement learner's permit follows the same process as a duplicate driver's license — you visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent), pay a fee, and walk out with a new card. The fee varies by state, typically between $10 and $30. You do not need to retake the written test or vision screening unless your state's rules have changed since you first passed, or unless your permit has expired.

The fastest route is usually your state's online portal, if it offers permit replacement. Many states let you order a replacement without visiting an office, though a few still require an in-person visit. Check your state's DMV website first — the option is usually under "Replace a Lost/Stolen Document" or "Duplicate License/Permit".

If you lost your permit and need to drive before the replacement arrives, you cannot legally drive alone on a learner's permit, even with a replacement in the mail. A learner's permit always requires a licensed adult in the front seat. If you need to drive when ready, you may be able to get a temporary paper permit at a DMV office on the same day.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states let you order a replacement learner's permit online through the DMV website without visiting an office.
  • The fee for a replacement is usually $10 to $30 and varies by state.
  • You do not need to retake the written test or vision exam unless your permit has expired or your state's rules have changed.
  • A temporary paper permit issued at a DMV office on the same day can let you drive while waiting for your replacement card to arrive.
  • A learner's permit always requires a licensed adult in the front seat, even if you are waiting for a replacement.

Online replacement versus in-person at the DMV

Online replacement is faster and available in most states. You log into your state's DMV portal, confirm your identity (usually with your Social Security number and driver's license or ID number), pay the fee with a credit or debit card, and the new permit is mailed to your address on file. Delivery typically takes 7 to 14 business days. Some states charge a small additional fee for online orders, usually $2 to $5.

In-person replacement at a DMV office takes one visit and usually one hour or less. Bring your ID, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease), and payment. You will receive a temporary paper permit when ready if you ask for one, which lets you drive that same day while the card is being printed or mailed. A few states print the card on-site and hand it to you before you leave.

If your permit was stolen rather than lost, some states ask you to file a police report first or sign a statement confirming the theft. Call your local DMV office or check the website to see if this applies to you.

What documents and information you will need

For an online replacement, you will need your Social Security number, your current address, and either your driver's license number or learner's permit number (if you remember it). You will also need a valid payment method — a credit card, debit card, or in some states an electronic check.

For an in-person replacement, bring a photo ID (a passport, state ID, or the learner's permit itself if you still have it), proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and payment in cash or card. If you do not have a photo ID, bring two documents that together prove your identity and address — ask your DMV office which combinations they accept.

If you are under 18, some states require a parent or guardian to be present or to sign a consent form. Check your state's rules before you go.

How long it takes and when you can drive

An online replacement usually arrives in 7 to 14 business days, depending on your state's mail processing time. An in-person replacement at a DMV office can be ready the same day if the office prints cards on-site, or it may be mailed to you within 5 to 10 business days. Call ahead to ask whether your local office prints on-site.

If you need to drive before the replacement arrives, ask for a temporary paper permit when you visit the office in person. This temporary permit is valid for 30 to 60 days (depending on your state) and lets you drive with a licensed adult in the front seat, just as your regular learner's permit does. If you ordered online, you cannot get a temporary permit unless you visit an office in person.

Your learner's permit remains valid for driving purposes until it officially expires, even if it is lost or stolen. You do not lose your driving privileges by losing the card — you just need to show a valid ID and the temporary permit or replacement when you are stopped.

Cost and payment methods

A replacement learner's permit costs between $10 and $30 in most states. Some states charge the same fee for online and in-person replacements; others charge $2 to $5 more for online orders. A few states offer free replacements if your permit was stolen (you may need to provide a police report), but most charge the standard fee regardless of the reason.

Payment methods vary by state. In-person at the DMV, you can usually pay in cash, by debit card, or by credit card. Online, most states accept credit cards and debit cards; some also accept electronic checks or bank transfers. A few states require you to pay in person only.

If you are ordering online, the fee is charged when you submit your order. If you are visiting in person, you pay at the counter before you leave.

What happens if your permit has expired

If your learner's permit expired before you lost it, you cannot straightforward order a replacement — you will need to renew it first. The renewal process is the same as getting a new permit: you take the written test and vision screening again, then pay the permit fee. Some states let you renew online if your permit expired recently (usually within the last year or two), but most require an in-person visit.

Check your permit card for the expiration date. If it has not expired, you can order a replacement without retaking any tests. If it has expired, contact your state's DMV to find out whether you can renew online or whether you must visit an office.

Temporary paper permits and emergency driving

A temporary paper permit is a one-page document issued at a DMV office that lets you drive while waiting for your replacement card. It is valid for 30 to 60 days and has the same restrictions as your learner's permit — you must have a licensed adult in the front seat, and you cannot drive alone.

To get a temporary permit, you must visit a DMV office in person and ask for one when you request your replacement. Not all offices issue them, so call ahead to confirm. If your office does not issue temporary permits, ask whether they can print your replacement card on-site instead.

If you ordered your replacement online and realize you need to drive before it arrives, you will need to visit a DMV office in person to get a temporary permit. Bring the same documents you would bring for an in-person replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement if I do not remember my permit number?

Yes. For an online replacement, you can use your Social Security number and driver's license number instead. For an in-person replacement, bring your ID and proof of address, and the DMV staff will look up your permit in their system. If you have the original permit card, bring it — it has your permit number on it.

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

Update your address with the DMV before you order a replacement, or the new permit will be mailed to your old address. Most states let you update your address online through the DMV portal. If you cannot update it online, visit a DMV office or call to request an address change, then order your replacement.

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

No, unless your permit has expired or your state's written test has changed since you passed it. A replacement is just a new card with the same information. If your permit expired, you will need to renew it, which does require retaking the test and vision screening.

Can someone else pick up my replacement permit for me?

If you ordered online, the permit is mailed to your address on file, so no one needs to pick it up. If you ordered in person and want someone else to pick up a printed permit, ask the DMV office whether they allow it — policies vary. You may need to sign a form authorizing the other person to collect it.

What if my replacement permit arrives damaged or with errors on it?

Contact your state's DMV when ready. If the card is damaged, you can request another replacement, usually at no additional charge. If there is an error in your name, address, or other information, the DMV will correct it and issue a new card. Bring the damaged or incorrect permit with you if you visit in person.