What You Need to Do to Get a Duplicate License in New Jersey
A duplicate New Jersey driver's license replaces a lost, stolen, or damaged license with an identical one — same number, same expiration date, same restrictions. You can request one in person at any Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office, by mail, or through the MVC's online portal if your license is still valid and you have not reported it stolen.
The fastest route is the online portal at nj.gov/mvc if your license has not been reported stolen and is not expired. Processing takes about one week. If you go in person, you walk out with a temporary license the same day and receive the permanent card by mail within two weeks. By mail, the process takes three to four weeks total.
You will pay a $20 fee for a duplicate license, whether you order online, by mail, or in person. There is no additional charge for the temporary license you receive at an office visit.
Key Takeaways
- The online portal at nj.gov/mvc is the fastest option if your license is valid and you have not reported it stolen — processing takes about one week.
- In-person visits to any MVC office give you a temporary license on the spot and the permanent card arrives by mail within two weeks.
- The $20 duplicate fee is the same whether you order online, by mail, or in person.
- You must bring proof of identity and New Jersey residency to any in-person visit; online orders require your license number and date of birth.
- If your license was stolen, you must report it to the MVC before ordering a duplicate to prevent fraud.
Ordering a Duplicate License Online
The MVC online portal is open 24 hours and requires only your valid New Jersey driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You do not need to upload documents or visit an office. The system will ask you to confirm your address and whether the license is lost, stolen, or damaged.
Do not use the online portal if you have reported your license stolen, if your license is expired, or if you have an outstanding suspension or revocation. The system will reject your request and direct you to visit an office or mail in your order instead.
After you submit your order online, you will receive a confirmation number by email. The permanent card ships to your address on file within one week. You can check the status of your order on the MVC website using your confirmation number.
Getting a Duplicate License in Person at an MVC Office
Walk-in service is available at all 39 MVC offices across New Jersey. You do not need an appointment for a duplicate license, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Offices are typically less crowded on weekday mornings and early afternoons.
Bring one form of photo identification (your expired or damaged license counts) and one document proving New Jersey residency — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. If you are renewing or replacing a license that was suspended or revoked, bring the notice from the MVC that explains the reason.
At the counter, tell the staff member you need a duplicate license. They will verify your information, take a new photo if your current license photo is damaged, and process the $20 fee. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your permanent card arrives by mail within two weeks to the address on file.
Ordering a Duplicate License by Mail
Complete the process for Duplicate Driver License form (form BA-298), available on the MVC website or at any office. Mail the completed form, a copy of your photo identification, and a check or money order for $20 to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash.
Include a copy of one document proving your New Jersey residency — the same documents accepted in person (utility bill, lease, mortgage, or bank statement dated within 60 days). If your license was stolen, include a written statement explaining that you reported it to the MVC and the date you reported it.
Mail your packet to the MVC address on the form. Processing takes three to four weeks from the date the MVC receives your envelope. You will not receive a temporary license by mail; the permanent card is your only document until it arrives. If you need to drive before the card arrives, you must visit an office in person to get a temporary license.
If Your License Was Reported Stolen
Before you order a duplicate, you must report the theft to the MVC to prevent someone else from using your license number for fraud. Call the MVC Theft Hotline at 609-292-6500 or visit any office in person. You will receive a confirmation number or letter stating the license has been reported stolen.
After you report the theft, you cannot use the online portal. You must either visit an office in person or mail in your duplicate request. Include the theft report confirmation number or letter with your mail-in process. At an office, tell the staff member your license was stolen and provide the confirmation number if you have it.
The MVC will flag your stolen license in its system so that if someone tries to use it, the fraud can be traced. Your new duplicate license will have the same number as the stolen one, but the MVC's records will show it as a replacement issued after theft.
What Happens If Your License Is Expired
If your license has expired, you cannot order a duplicate online. You must renew your license instead, which involves a new process, a new photo, and a vision test. A duplicate is only for replacing a valid license that is lost, stolen, or damaged.
Visit an MVC office with your expired license, proof of identity, and proof of residency. The staff will determine whether you need a standard renewal or a full reapplication based on how long your license has been expired and whether your address or other information has changed. Renewal fees and processing times differ from duplicate fees.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not assume the online portal will work for you. If your license is expired, suspended, revoked, or reported stolen, the system will reject your order without explanation. Check your license status on the MVC website before you try to order online.
Do not send cash by mail. The MVC will not process your process if payment is missing, and cash sent through the mail is not insured. Use a check or money order only.
Do not wait to report a stolen license. The longer you wait, the greater the risk that someone will use your license number fraudulently. Report it to the MVC as soon as you discover the theft.
Do not assume your address on file is correct. If you have moved since your last license was issued, update your address before ordering a duplicate. Your new card will be mailed to the address in the MVC system, not to your current residence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a duplicate license?
Online orders take about one week. In-person visits give you a temporary license the same day and the permanent card arrives within two weeks. Mail-in requests take three to four weeks total from the date the MVC receives your envelope.
Can I use my temporary license to drive?
Yes. The temporary paper license is valid for 30 days and can be used for driving, identification, and any other purpose your regular license serves. Keep it with you until your permanent card arrives.
What if I move before my duplicate license arrives?
Contact the MVC and update your address before your card ships. If your card is already in the mail, you can request it be held at an MVC office for pickup, or you can have it forwarded to your new address through the postal service.
Do I need a new photo for a duplicate license?
No, unless your current license photo is damaged or illegible. The MVC will use the photo from your existing license. If you order online or by mail, no new photo is taken. At an office, staff will only take a new photo if necessary.
Can someone else pick up my temporary license for me?
No. You must be present at the MVC office to receive your temporary license. The staff will not issue it to anyone else, even with a power of attorney or written authorization.