New Jersey replaces lost or damaged licenses through the Motor Vehicle Commission, either in person at a local office or by mail
To replace a lost or damaged New Jersey driver's license, you have two main routes: visit a Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office in person, or submit documents by mail to the MVC's central processing location. The in-person route is faster — typically same-day or within a few days — but requires a trip to an MVC office during business hours. The mail route takes longer, usually two to three weeks, but works if you cannot reach an office or prefer to handle it remotely.
New Jersey does not charge a replacement fee for a lost license, but you will pay the standard license renewal fee, which varies depending on your license type and how long you want it valid. A standard four-year renewal costs less than an eight-year one. You will also need to bring or submit specific documents to prove your identity and residency.
Key Takeaways
- The Motor Vehicle Commission handles all license replacements in New Jersey, and you can do this in person at any MVC office or by mail to their central office in Trenton.
- You must bring a valid form of identification, proof of New Jersey residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number to complete the replacement.
- In-person replacement usually takes a few days to a week; mail replacement typically takes two to three weeks from the date the MVC receives your documents.
- If your license was stolen, you may want to file a police report first, though it is not required to get a replacement.
What documents you need to bring or submit
The MVC requires proof of identity, proof of New Jersey residency, and your Social Security number. For identity, bring a valid passport, military ID, or other government-issued photo ID. If you do not have one of these, the MVC accepts a combination of documents — such as a birth certificate plus a high school diploma or college transcript.
For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name with a current New Jersey address. The document must be dated within the last 30 days. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from the person whose name is on the bill, plus a copy of that bill.
You will also need to provide your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, or be prepared to state the number at the MVC office or include it on your mail submission.
Replacing your license in person at an MVC office
Walk into any MVC office with your documents and a completed Driver License process form (Form BA-298). You can read and print this form from the MVC website before you go, or fill it out at the office. Bring your identity document, residency proof, and Social Security card or number. The staff will take a new photo, verify your information, and collect the renewal fee.
Most MVC offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with some locations open on Saturday mornings. Wait times vary widely by location and time of day; calling ahead or checking the MVC website for current wait times can help you plan. Some offices use an online appointment system, which can reduce your wait.
Once processed, you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is printed and mailed to you. The plastic card usually arrives within one to two weeks.
Replacing your license by mail
Complete the Driver License process form (Form BA-298) and mail it along with copies of your identity document, residency proof, and a check or money order for the renewal fee to the MVC's central office in Trenton. Do not send original documents — send copies only. Include a photocopy of both sides of your identity document and a copy of your residency proof.
Address your envelope to: Motor Vehicle Commission, Document Processing Section, P.O. Box 403, Trenton, NJ 08666. Include a note explaining that you are replacing a lost or damaged license. The MVC will process your request and mail your new license to the address you provide on the form.
Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks from the date the MVC receives your documents. You will not receive a temporary paper license with this method, so plan accordingly if you need to drive before your new card arrives. If you need to drive when ready, the in-person route is your better option.
If your license was stolen
Filing a police report is not required to get a replacement, but it is a good idea if your license was stolen rather than straightforward lost. A police report creates an official record and can help protect you if someone tries to use your license fraudulently. Contact your local police department's non-emergency line to file a report.
Whether or not you file a report, follow the same replacement process: visit an MVC office or mail your documents. If you are concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them. A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.
Replacing a license that is damaged but not lost
If your license is still in your possession but damaged — worn, faded, cracked, or otherwise unreadable — you can replace it using the same process. Bring the damaged license along with your other documents to an MVC office, or mail a photocopy of it with your process. The MVC will issue you a new card at the standard renewal fee.
Damaged licenses do not always require replacement when ready. If your license is still readable and your photo is still clear, you can wait until your renewal date. However, if the damage affects the barcode, magnetic stripe, or photo, replacing it sooner prevents problems at traffic stops or when presenting ID.
MVC office locations and hours
New Jersey has MVC offices in most counties. The main office is in Trenton, but you can visit any regional office closest to you. The MVC website lists all office locations, hours, and current wait times. Some offices are busier than others; visiting during off-peak hours (mid-morning on a Tuesday or Wednesday) typically means shorter waits than visiting on Friday afternoons or Saturdays.
A few MVC offices offer Saturday hours, though not all do. If you can only visit on a weekend, check the MVC website to find an office near you that is open on Saturday. Some offices also offer evening hours one or two days per week.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to replace a lost license in New Jersey?
There is no separate replacement fee, but you pay the standard license renewal fee. A four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. The exact amount depends on your age and the license type you hold. Check the MVC website or call your local office for the current fee.
Can I get a temporary license to drive while I wait for my replacement?
If you replace your license in person at an MVC office, you receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. If you replace it by mail, you do not receive a temporary license, so you cannot legally drive until your new card arrives. Plan accordingly or visit an office in person if you need to drive when ready.
What if I do not have a Social Security card?
Bring your Social Security number written down, or tell the MVC staff the number when you visit. If you do not know your number, contact the Social Security Administration before you go to the MVC. You cannot complete the replacement without providing your Social Security number.
How long does it take to get my new license after I explore in person?
You receive a temporary paper license on the spot, valid for 30 days. Your plastic license card is mailed to you and usually arrives within one to two weeks. If it does not arrive within three weeks, contact the MVC to check the status.
Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?
If you explore in person, you receive your temporary license when ready. Your plastic card is mailed to the address you provide, so you do not need to pick it up. If you need someone else to handle the in-person process on your behalf, contact your local MVC office to ask about their power-of-attorney or proxy procedures.