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

If your learner's permit is lost, stolen, damaged, or worn out, you can get a replacement from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) without retaking the written test or vision screening. You will need to visit a DPS office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, and pay a replacement fee. The process takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and you will receive your new permit the same day.

A replacement permit is identical to your original one — it has the same expiration date and the same driving restrictions. You do not need to reapply or restart your permit period. The main difference is the cost: a replacement is cheaper than an original permit because you are not paying for the written test or vision exam.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS office in person with a valid ID and proof of Texas residency to request a replacement permit.
  • The replacement fee in Texas is $16 for a permit that expires within one year, or $32 for a permit that expires in two or more years.
  • Your replacement permit will have the same expiration date as your original permit, so you do not lose any time on your permit period.
  • You do not need to retake the written test, vision screening, or driving test to receive a replacement permit.
  • Bring your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), as DPS will ask for it during the replacement process.

Documents to bring to the DPS office

Bring one form of valid photo ID. This can be a passport, a state ID card, a military ID, or a school ID issued by a public school or accredited private school. If you do not have a photo ID, you can bring two forms of non-photo ID instead — for example, a birth certificate and a Social Security card, or a school report card and a utility bill.

You will also need proof that you live in Texas. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address works. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you live with a parent or guardian and do not have a bill in your name, bring a notarized letter from them stating that you live there, plus a bill or lease in their name.

Have your Social Security number or ITIN ready. DPS will ask for it during the replacement process. If you do not have either, you will need to bring a letter from the Social Security Administration or the Internal Revenue Service stating that you are not may be able to access for a number.

Where to go and how long it takes

Visit any DPS Driver License office in Texas. You can find the office nearest you on the DPS website by entering your city or zip code. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and some are open on Saturday mornings. Call ahead or check the office hours online, because hours vary by location.

You do not need an appointment for a replacement permit. Walk-in service is available, but wait times vary. Offices in smaller towns usually have shorter waits than those in major cities. If you want to avoid a long wait, go early in the morning or on a weekday afternoon.

The replacement process itself takes about 15 to 30 minutes once you reach the window. You will fill out a short form, show your documents, pay the fee, and have your photo taken. You will receive your new permit the same day before you leave the office.

Replacement fees and payment methods

The cost depends on how long your replacement permit will be valid. If your original permit expires within one year, the replacement fee is $16. If it expires in two or more years, the fee is $32. These are the only two fee amounts for replacement permits in Texas.

DPS offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices also accept checks, but call ahead to confirm. You cannot pay online or by mail for a replacement permit — you must pay in person at the office.

What happens if your permit was suspended or revoked

If your learner's permit was suspended or revoked by DPS, you cannot get a replacement. You will need to contact DPS to find out why it was suspended or revoked and what steps you must take to restore it. Suspensions and revocations happen for reasons like failing the written test multiple times, providing false information on your process, or being convicted of certain traffic violations.

Call the DPS Driver License Division at 1-888-589-6900 to ask about your suspension or revocation. You can also visit a DPS office in person and ask to speak with a supervisor. They will explain what happened and tell you whether you need to retake the written test, pay a reinstatement fee, or complete other requirements before you can drive again.

If your permit was damaged or worn out

If your permit is still in your possession but is damaged, faded, or worn out, you can still request a replacement at a DPS office. Bring the damaged permit with you along with your ID and proof of residency. The fee is the same as for a lost or stolen permit.

If your permit is damaged but still readable, DPS may ask you to explain what happened. You do not need to provide a police report or any other documentation — a straightforward explanation is enough. If the damage makes the permit unreadable or unusable, DPS will replace it without asking questions.

Replacing a permit if you have moved out of state

If you moved out of Texas after getting your learner's permit, you cannot get a replacement from DPS by mail or online. You must return to Texas in person to visit a DPS office. Bring the same documents you would bring for any replacement: a valid ID, proof of Texas residency (which can be an old utility bill or lease from when you lived there), and your Social Security number or ITIN.

If you no longer have proof of Texas residency, call DPS at 1-888-589-6900 and ask what documents they will accept. Some offices will accept an old lease or utility bill even if it is more than 60 days old, as long as it shows your Texas address. If you cannot provide any proof of Texas residency, you may need to explore for a new learner's permit instead of a replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement permit by mail or online?

No. Texas DPS requires you to visit an office in person to get a replacement permit. You cannot mail in a request or use the DPS website to order a replacement. You must bring your documents and pay the fee at a DPS Driver License office.

Will my replacement permit have a new expiration date?

No. Your replacement permit will have the same expiration date as your original permit. You do not lose any time on your permit period when you get a replacement. If your original permit was set to expire in six months, your replacement will also expire in six months.

What if I lost my permit and do not remember the expiration date?

Tell the DPS staff member at the office. They can look up your original permit information in their system using your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. They will tell you the expiration date and charge you the correct replacement fee based on how much time is left on your permit.

Do I need to bring my original permit to get a replacement?

No. If your permit is lost or stolen, you do not need to bring it. If your permit is damaged or worn out and you still have it, bring it with you, but it is not required. DPS can issue a replacement based on your ID and proof of residency alone.

Can someone else pick up my replacement permit for me?

No. You must be present in person to receive your replacement permit. DPS will not issue it to a parent, guardian, or anyone else on your behalf. You must visit the office yourself, show your ID, and sign for the permit before you leave.