Lost Your Learner License in Texas? How to Replace It

If you lost your Texas learner license, you can't replace it online. The route DPS documents is an in-person visit to a Texas driver license office, by appointment, with a completed replacement application, one proof-of-identity document, and your Social Security number. The replacement costs $11.

A Texas learner license is also called an instruction permit. It lets a student practice driving only with a licensed driver present. This post covers how to replace one, what to bring, and whether you can drive while you wait.

Why you can't replace it online

The official online eligibility rules require the holder to be at least 18 and not hold a provisional or learner license. Learner license holders also can't renew online, by mail, or by phone.

How to replace it in person

All in-person driver license services are by appointment, and you can book up to six months in advance. If you don't have the online information you need, schedule a local office visit through Driver License Services – Appointments.

You can visit any driver license office in Texas, not only the one in your county. Complete the application before you arrive. The form is also available at all offices.

What to bring

• A completed replacement application
• One proof-of-identity document
• Your Social Security number
• U.S. citizenship or lawful presence, if it isn't already on file with DPS

At the office, you pay the fee. Walk-in replacements without an appointment are not confirmed by an official source, so book ahead.

If you're a minor, the Texas handbook says an original application must be signed under oath by a parent or guardian with custody. Whether that rule applies to a replacement is not confirmed, so check with DPS when you book.

Can you replace it by mail?

DPS's FAQ says a Texas resident who is out of state may replace a lost card by mail using form DL-16P. Mail replacement for an in-state learner license at home is not confirmed by an official source. If you're at home in Texas, plan on the in-person route, and check with DPS if you're unsure.

What it costs

The replacement fee is $11: $10 for the license plus a $1 transaction fee, for online and in-person transactions. Out-of-state residents replacing by mail pay $10, with no $1 fee.

The DPS fee list doesn't show a separate learner-license replacement fee. The $11 duplicate fee is the one DPS publishes.

If your learner license was stolen

If someone else used the stolen card, file a police report and bring a copy to the driver license office. Staff decide whether you need a new number.

Can you drive while you wait?

Official sources don't confirm whether an in-office replacement comes with a temporary paper license valid for driving, or for how many days. The 45-day temporary license in the handbook is issued after passing the exams for a new license, not for a replacement.

Until you have the card, the learner license rules still apply. Any learner license holder must drive with a licensed driver at least 21 years old who has one year of experience, sitting in the front seat. Don't assume you can drive alone.

While you wait, you can study for the knowledge test with the Texas practice test.

Keep your address current

If you move, report the address change to DPS within 30 days.

Sources

• Texas driver license handbook (DL-7)
• DPS lost or stolen driver license FAQ
• DPS: Replace your driver license, commercial driver license or ID card
• DPS: How to replace your driver license
• Texas.gov: Online replacement eligibility