Beginner’s Guide to Renewing Your PA Driver’s Permit

How to Renew Your PA Learner’s Permit

If you’re learning to drive in Pennsylvania, obtaining your Learner’s Permit is your first step towards becoming a licensed driver. This guide covers everything you need to know to renew your PA learner’s permit smoothly and avoid mistakes.

Renewing Your PA Learner’s Permit Before The Expiration Date

Your PA Learner’s Permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If it is about to expire, or has already expired, you’ll need to renew or extend it before you can legally drive again.  

There is no grace period for expired learner’s permits. If yours expires, you cannot legally drive, even with supervision.  

Important to note: Introduction of the REAL ID

A REAL ID is optional for Pennsylvania residents – you can get a REAL ID driver’s license/identification card or a standard driver’s license or identification card. However, it may end up being more convenient as it has numerous uses.

“Beginning May 3, 2023, Pennsylvanians will need a REAL ID-compliant license/identification card or another form of federally acceptable identification (such as a valid passport or military ID) to:

• Board domestic commercial flights.
• Enter a military base.
• Enter a federal facility that requires ID at the door”. (PennDOT DMV)

Announced by the DMV in May 2020, the REAL ID may assist you in avoiding some queueing in person.

What Happens if Your Learner’s Permit Has Already Expired?

If your Learner’s Permit has expired for more than 6 months, you may be required to start the learner’s permit application process over, including retaking the knowledge test and paying all applicable fees.

There is no grace period for expired learner’s permits. Never drive with an expired learner’s permit! Driving on an expired permit can result in fines starting at $39 and going up to $200.

Renewing Your Learner’s Permit Online 

You cannot renew a PA Learner’s Permit online, only a driver’s license (non-commercial, within certain eligibility criteria) can be renewed via PennDOT’s online system If your learner’s permit has expired, or you’ve failed the skills test three times, you must complete and return Form DL-31, the “Non-Commercial learners Permit Application, either by mail or in person at a PennDOT Driver License Center. 

Renewing In Person

Step 1: Download and complete Form DL-31. 

Step 2: Check the appropriate box for “Extend” on the form and fill in the relevant information.

Step 3: Visit a PennDOT Driver License Center in person with the completed DL-31 form and payment of $5.00 for the extension.

Step 4: Take a vision screening at the center.  

Step 5: Receive your renewed learner’s permit at the counter, which will be issued immediately. 

*Acceptable ID / Acceptable forms of signature identification at the DMV include:

• Pennsylvania Driver’s License or Photo ID Card
• Documents such as a Passport, Citizenship, Naturalization, or Weapons Permit
• A photographic ID such as Military, Bank, Employee, School, or Out-of-State License
• A non-photo form of identification such as a Medicare Card, Voter’s Registration Card, PA Learner’s Permit, Temporary Driver’s License, or Vehicle Registration 

What if Your Permit Was Suspended or Revoked?

If your learner’s permit has been suspended, revoked or cancelled, you must contact PennDOT or your local DMV office to get instructions specific to your situation before you can renew it.

How Much Does a PA Permit Renewal Cost?

This will depend on the type of license you’re renewing.

The fee for PA Learner’s Permit renewals or extensions is $5.00. Unlike other types of driver’s documents, learner’s permits are valid for one year only and can be extended if needed by submitting the proper paperwork and paying the fee.

Take It to the Next Level With an Advanced Driving Course

Seeing as you’re renewing your driver’s permit, maybe this is the perfect time to refresh and even upgrade your skills on the road. You’ll even receive a certificate that can lower your driving insurance fees. Consider taking one of Driven2Drive’s highly-acclaimed Advanced Driving Courses.

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