How to Replace a Lost Driver's License in New Jersey

What to do when ready after losing your New Jersey driver's license

If your New Jersey driver's license is lost, you need to report it to the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) and request a replacement. The MVC will deactivate your lost license so it cannot be used fraudulently, and issue you a new one with the same number. You can report the loss and order a replacement online, by mail, or in person at an MVC office.

The fastest route is the MVC's online system at nj.gov/mvc. You log in with your credentials, report the license lost, and pay the replacement fee. A new card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive before it arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at the same time, which the MVC mails separately.

Key Takeaways

Report your lost license to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission through their website, by mail, or at an MVC office to prevent fraudulent use.
A replacement license costs $24.50 and arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days under normal processing.
You can request a temporary paper license at the same time as your replacement to drive legally while waiting for the new card.
If you cannot access the online system, you can mail a completed form to the MVC or visit an office in person with your Social Security number and proof of identity.

Reporting your lost license online

The MVC's online portal is open 24 hours and requires you to log in with your New Jersey online account credentials. If you do not have an account, you can create one at nj.gov using your driver's license number, Social Security number, and date of birth. Once logged in, select "Report Lost/Stolen License" and follow the prompts to confirm your identity and current address.

You will be asked to pay the $24.50 replacement fee by credit or debit card. The MVC will then mail your new license to the address on file. At the same time, you can request a temporary paper license, which serves as a valid form of identification for driving until your permanent card arrives. The temporary license is mailed separately and typically reaches you within 5 to 7 business days.

Mailing in your replacement request

If you prefer not to use the online system, you can mail a written request to the MVC. You will need to complete form BA-298 (process for Duplicate License) and include a copy of your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, a copy of proof of identity such as a passport or birth certificate, and a check or money order for $24.50 made payable to "New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission."

Mail the packet to: Motor Vehicle Commission, Document Services, P.O. Box 403, Trenton, NJ 08625. Processing by mail takes 2 to 3 weeks longer than online reporting. Include a note requesting a temporary paper license if you need to drive before the replacement arrives. Keep a copy of everything you send for your records.

Getting a replacement in person at an MVC office

You can visit any MVC office to report your lost license and receive a replacement on the same day. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, a valid form of identification such as a passport or birth certificate, and $24.50 in cash or card. The office will take your photo, print your new license, and hand it to you before you leave.

MVC offices operate by appointment only. You must schedule a visit through the MVC website or by calling 609-292-6500. Wait times vary by location and time of day, but appointments typically are available within 2 to 5 business days. If you need to drive before your appointment, request a temporary paper license online or ask the office staff to issue one when you arrive.

Temporary paper licenses and driving legally

A temporary paper license is a valid form of identification for driving in New Jersey and is recognized by law enforcement. It remains valid for 30 days from the date it is issued. You can request one when you report your lost license online, by mail, or in person. The temporary license is mailed to you separately from your permanent replacement card.

If you are stopped by police while driving with only a temporary license, you must show the paper document along with proof of your identity, such as a passport. The temporary license includes your license number, expiration date, and address. Once your permanent card arrives, the temporary license is no longer needed and can be discarded.

What happens if your license was stolen or used fraudulently

If you believe your lost license has been used fraudulently — for example, to open a credit account or commit a crime — report it to the New Jersey State Police and file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov. The MVC's deactivation of your lost license prevents it from being used for official transactions like vehicle registration or license renewal, but does not stop someone from using it as false identification.

When you report the loss to the MVC, document the date and method you used to report it. Keep records of any fraudulent activity you discover, including credit card statements, police report numbers, and correspondence with creditors. The FTC's identity theft report can be used to dispute fraudulent accounts and may help you recover damages.

Replacing a license that was lost out of state

If you lost your New Jersey license while traveling outside the state, you can still report it and request a replacement through the MVC's online system or by mail from anywhere. You do not need to be in New Jersey to file the report. The replacement will be mailed to your address on file in New Jersey.

If you need to drive before the replacement arrives and you are still out of state, you may be able to obtain a temporary license from the state where you are located, though this varies by state. Contact the motor vehicle agency in that state to learn what documents you will need. Once you return to New Jersey, your replacement license should have arrived, or you can pick it up at an MVC office if you requested in-person service.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement license?

Online and in-person replacements take 7 to 10 business days by mail. In-person service at an MVC office produces a license the same day. Mail-in requests take 2 to 3 weeks longer. A temporary paper license mailed with your order arrives in 5 to 7 business days.

Can I drive without a license while waiting for my replacement?

No, you cannot drive without a valid license. You must request a temporary paper license when you report your lost license. The temporary license is valid for 30 days and allows you to drive legally while your permanent replacement is in the mail.

What if I find my lost license after I report it?

Once you report a license lost, the MVC deactivates it and it cannot be used. You must use the replacement license that was issued. If you find the original, you can discard it or return it to the MVC, but you cannot use it for driving or identification.

Do I need to renew my license if it was expiring soon anyway?

No. A replacement license issued for a lost card has the same expiration date as your original license. If your original license was expiring within a few months, your replacement will expire on the same date. You can renew at the same time if you wish, but it is not required.

What if I lost my license and my vehicle registration at the same time?

Report the lost license to the MVC through the methods described above. For your vehicle registration, contact the MVC separately or visit an office to request a duplicate registration card. Both can be reported and replaced through the same online account or in a single office visit.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.