How to Replace a Lost Driver License in New Jersey

Get a replacement license from the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission

If you've lost your New Jersey driver license, you can get a replacement without retaking the written or road test. The Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) handles replacements and issues a new license with the same number and expiration date as your original. You can request a replacement in person at an MVC office, by mail, or online through the MVC website.

The fastest route is usually online if you have a valid email address and access to a credit or debit card. Processing takes about 7 to 10 business days, and the license arrives by mail. If you need a license sooner, you can visit an MVC office in person and walk out with a temporary paper license the same day, though the plastic card still takes a week or two to arrive.

Key Takeaways

You can order a replacement license online at nj.gov/mvc, by mail, or in person at any MVC office without retaking any tests.
Online replacement costs $24 and takes 7 to 10 business days; in-person replacement costs $24 and gives you a temporary paper license when ready.
You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and a valid payment method to order online or by mail.
If you visit an MVC office, bring your Social Security card, birth certificate, or passport to prove your identity.
A replacement license has the same number and expiration date as your original, so your driving record stays intact.

Order a replacement license online

The MVC website at nj.gov/mvc has an online replacement tool that works if your license was not suspended or revoked. Go to the MVC homepage, select "Driver License" from the menu, then choose "Replace Lost License." You will need your driver license number (or the last four digits and your date of birth if you don't have it), your Social Security number, and a valid email address.

The system will ask you to confirm your address and choose whether you want a standard or REAL ID license. A standard replacement costs $24; a REAL ID replacement costs $30. Pay by credit or debit card. You will receive a confirmation email with a reference number. The new license ships to the address on file and arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You can check the status of your order on the MVC website using your reference number.

Request a replacement by mail

Fill out form BA-298 (process for Duplicate Driver License), which you can read from nj.gov/mvc or request by calling the MVC at 609-292-6500. Include a check or money order for $24 (standard) or $30 (REAL ID) made payable to "New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission." Mail the form and payment to the address listed on the form.

Processing by mail takes 2 to 3 weeks longer than online, so this route makes sense only if you don't have internet access or a payment card. Include a note with your phone number so the MVC can contact you if there's a problem with your process. Keep a copy of the form and your check number for your records.

Visit an MVC office for a same-day temporary license

Walk into any MVC office with proof of identity and you can leave with a temporary paper license the same day. Bring your Social Security card, birth certificate, or passport. If you don't have any of those, bring a combination of documents that together prove your name, date of birth, and address — such as a utility bill plus a bank statement plus a school ID.

Tell the staff member you lost your license and need a replacement. They will take your photo, print a temporary paper license on the spot, and send your permanent plastic license to your address on file. The permanent license arrives in 7 to 10 business days. The replacement fee is $24 for a standard license or $30 for REAL ID. You can pay by cash, check, or card at most offices.

MVC offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and some locations have Saturday hours. Wait times vary by location and time of day. Check nj.gov/mvc for the office nearest you and current wait times before you go.

What to do if your license was suspended or revoked

If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot order a replacement online or by mail. You must visit an MVC office in person. Bring proof of identity and ask to speak with a staff member about your suspension or revocation. They will tell you what you need to do to restore your driving privileges — this might include paying a fine, completing a defensive driving course, or waiting out a suspension period.

Once your suspension or revocation is lifted, you can request a replacement license. If the suspension is still active, the MVC will not issue a new license, even though you lost the old one. Do not drive without a license while you wait for the suspension to be resolved.

Report your lost license to police if it was stolen

If someone stole your license rather than you straightforward losing it, file a report with your local police department. Give them your license number and the date you discovered it was missing. The police report creates a record that protects you if someone tries to use your license fraudulently.

You don't need the police report to get a replacement from the MVC, but it's worth filing if you believe the license could be used to commit identity theft or fraud. Keep a copy of the report for your records. If you notice fraudulent activity on your credit report or bank accounts after losing your license, contact your bank and the credit bureaus right away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with a temporary paper license while I wait for my permanent one?

Yes. The temporary paper license is valid for driving and is recognized by police. Keep it in your wallet or car at all times. Once your permanent plastic license arrives, the paper license is no longer valid, so destroy it or recycle it.

What if I lost my license out of state?

You can still order a replacement from New Jersey online or by mail using the same process. The MVC will mail it to any address you provide. If you need a license sooner, you may be able to visit an MVC office in person if you're back in New Jersey, or contact the MVC by phone at 609-292-6500 to discuss other options.

Do I have to pay to replace a lost license?

Yes. A standard replacement costs $24 and a REAL ID replacement costs $30. These are the only fees; there are no additional charges for processing or shipping. Payment methods include cash, check, credit card, or debit card depending on how you order.

Will my new license have the same number as my old one?

Yes. Your replacement license has the same number and expiration date as your original. Your driving record, points, and violations all stay the same. The only thing that changes is the physical card.

How long does it take to get a replacement if I order online?

Online orders take 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail. If you need a license sooner, visit an MVC office in person to get a temporary paper license the same day. The permanent plastic license still takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive after your in-person 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.