How to Replace a Stolen New Jersey Driver's License

Get a replacement license at your local MVC office with a police report and ID

If your New Jersey driver's license has been stolen, you can replace it at any Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office by presenting a police report of the theft, a valid form of ID, and proof of your New Jersey residency. The MVC treats stolen licenses as lost documents and will issue a replacement with a new license number the same day you explore, provided you bring the required documents and complete the process in person.

You do not need to wait for the police report to be filed or processed — you can explore for a replacement when ready after reporting the theft. However, you must have a copy of the police report number or a written incident report from the police department to show the MVC. This protects you from liability if someone uses your stolen license fraudulently.

Key Takeaways

File a police report with your local police department first, then bring the report number or incident report to the MVC office.
Bring a valid form of ID (passport, military ID, or other government-issued document), proof of New Jersey residency, and your Social Security number to the replacement appointment.
The replacement license will have a new number and can be issued the same day you explore in person at an MVC office.
You can explore at any MVC office in the state, not just the one in your county.
The replacement fee is the same as a standard license renewal, and you will need to provide a new photo during the appointment.

Report the theft to local police first

Before you go to the MVC, contact your local police department's non-emergency line and report that your driver's license has been stolen. Provide them with your name, date of birth, license number (if you remember it), and the approximate date and location where you last had the license. The police will create an incident report and give you a report number.

You do not need to file a formal written complaint or wait for an investigation. The police report serves as proof to the MVC that the license was stolen rather than lost, which protects you if someone attempts to use it. Keep the report number or ask for a copy of the incident report to bring with you to the MVC office.

Gather required documents before your MVC visit

The MVC requires several documents to issue a replacement license. Bring your police report number or incident report, a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a U.S. passport, military ID, or state ID from another state), and proof of New Jersey residency. Acceptable residency documents include a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and current address.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number at the MVC office. If you do not have your Social Security number memorized, bring your Social Security card or a document that displays it. The MVC will not issue a replacement license without this information.

Visit an MVC office to explore for the replacement

Go to any Motor Vehicle Commission office during business hours. You can find office locations and hours on the New Jersey MVC website. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, with some locations offering Saturday hours. You do not need to make an appointment for a replacement license — walk-in service is available, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

When you arrive, take a number at the front desk and wait to be called. Tell the representative that you need to replace a stolen driver's license. They will direct you to the appropriate window and guide you through the process. Bring all your documents with you — the police report number or incident report, your valid ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.

Complete the process and provide a new photo

At the MVC window, you will fill out Form BA-44, the process for a New Jersey driver's license. The form asks for your personal information, address, and details about the theft. The MVC representative will verify your information against their records and confirm that your license was reported stolen.

You will have a new photo taken at the MVC office as part of the replacement process. Wear clear glasses if you normally wear them, and avoid hats or head coverings unless required for religious reasons. The photo will appear on your new license, which will have a different license number than your stolen one.

Receive your replacement license and update your records

If all your documents are in order, the MVC will issue your replacement license on the same day. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is mailed to your address on file. The plastic license typically arrives within two to three weeks.

After you receive your replacement license, update your information with your bank, insurance company, employer, and any other organizations that have your license number on file. If your address has changed since your license was stolen, you can update it at the MVC office during your replacement visit. Notify your insurance company and any financial institutions of the theft as well, in case the stolen license is used fraudulently.

Protect yourself from identity theft after the theft

A stolen driver's license can be used to open accounts, make purchases, or commit fraud in your name. Consider placing 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.

You can also obtain a free copy of your credit report from each bureau at annualcreditreport.com to check for unauthorized accounts or inquiries. If you find fraudulent activity, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at reportidentitytheft.ftc.gov and keep records of all communications with creditors and law enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone use my stolen license to get a duplicate?

No. The MVC requires the applicant to appear in person with valid ID and proof of residency to obtain a replacement. However, someone with your stolen license could attempt to use it as ID for other purposes, such as opening a bank account or renting an apartment. This is why filing a police report is important — it creates an official record that the license was stolen rather than lost.

What if I don't remember my license number?

You do not need your license number to explore for a replacement. The MVC will look up your record using your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. The representative will confirm the details of your stolen license and issue a new one with a different number.

How much does a replacement license cost?

The fee for a replacement license in New Jersey is the same as a standard license renewal. Fees vary depending on your age and the type of license (standard, commercial, motorcycle). Check the MVC website for current fees, as they may change. Payment is accepted in cash, check, or card at most MVC offices.

Can I replace my license by mail if I'm out of state?

No. New Jersey requires you to appear in person at an MVC office to replace a stolen license. If you are temporarily out of state, you can wait until you return to New Jersey to explore. If you have moved out of state permanently, contact the MVC to learn about your options for transferring your license to your new state.

What if my police report hasn't been filed yet?

You can still explore for a replacement at the MVC. Bring the police report number or incident report that the police gave you when you reported the theft. If you do not have a report number yet, contact the police department again and ask for it before going to the MVC office.

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.