How To Replace A Lost New Jersey Driver’s License

Like in other states, getting a driver’s license in New Jersey is a multi-stage process. First, you get a probationary driver’s license; then, you are required to take a theory test, practice driving, and take a road test. After that, you can practice driving on your own and upgrade your probationary license to a basic one online. 

It will be a shame if all that time goes to waste if you lose your driver’s license. Luckily, you will not have to retake the exams and undergo a medical examination to get a new license. You’ll just have to reissue the document, but this process requires a detailed explanation. 

Can You Drive Without Your Driver’s License If You Lose It?

Driving without a license is considered a crime in all 50 states, including New Jersey. The financial penalty for driving without a license in New Jersey with proof of prior license is a fine of up to $500. In contrast, the penalty for driving without a license in New Jersey (no prior license in New Jersey or any other jurisdiction) is a fine of at least $200. 

The severity of the penalty for getting pulled over without a license increases if you are unable to present a valid driver’s license later on in court. The punishment can also be more severe based on the seriousness of your traffic infraction. 

Either way, the driver who has lost their license should take care of getting a new one as soon as possible and not use the car until the license is replaced. Remember that stolen licenses or IDs should be reported to the police. If you get caught driving without a license in New Jersey, you could be fined up to $500 or be imprisoned for up to 60 days. 

How To Get A Duplicate Of A Lost Driver’s License?

You can get a duplicate license or non-driver ID as a replacement if yours was lost, stolen, or destroyed; or if you have changed your address (you must wait ten days from online address change before ordering your replacement). When you receive the new license, the original must be destroyed if still in your possession. Using a duplicate driver's license as a second or spare copy is strictly prohibited. No driver may hold multiple copies of a license or a permit.

Note that due to a 2020 security change, Licenses/IDs are no longer printed in person. Even if you process a renewal (or a duplicate) at an agency, it will be mailed to you.

If you are out of the state for an extended period and unable to appear in person, you will need the following:

• A valid driver’s license number
• Your Social Security number
• A valid email address
• A working credit or debit card for the $11 fee
• Access to a printer (if you want to print your temporary license) 

You may also replace your New Jersey license in person. This option is only available in specific cases and by appointment only. To get a duplicate license in person, you’ll need to bring the following to your appointment: 

• Documents that meet New Jersey’s 6-point ID Verification rule
• Proof of your Social Security number
• Proof of your New Jersey address
• 11$ duplicate license fee

There are various ways to pay for a replacement. For example, you may pay the fee online, in person at a Full-Service motor vehicle agency, or via mail. For faster mail processing, send a check or money payable to the NJMVC, with the bottom portion of the suspension notice, to New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, P.O. Box 165 Trenton, NJ 08666-0165.

Summary

Losing your license is a very unpleasant experience, as you can quickly accumulate fines if you drive around without one. Luckily, getting a duplicate is not that hard and requires only a handful of documents and a couple of days. After you choose the appropriate method, fill out everything and pay some fees, the duplicate will be mailed to you within ten working days. 

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