Real ID requirements will be in place on October 1st, 2021. If you intend to get a REAL ID, you will likely need to visit a DMV in person.

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Important Notice About Real ID Implementation

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to file a police report if my license was lost or stolen?
Drivers must report a lost drivers license or stolen drivers license with the NJ police department. This is very important, as it will protect you from possible fraudulent activity and identity theft. You must also report your missing license to drive with the NJ DMV, as it is illegal to drive with expired or no license in the state of New Jersey.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated New Jersey Driver’s License or ID Card

How can I obtain a copy of the driver manual?
The New Jersey Driver Manual is a valuable resource when preparing for the DMV drivers exams as all the questions in the test are based on information provided in the manual. The NJ Driver Manual offers information about licenses and vehicle ownership, as well as traffic laws and regulations. You can download the NJ Driver Manual from the State of New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission website.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in New Jersey

How can I renew my drivers license?
A New Jersey drivers license is good for four years and must be renewed before it expires in person or by mail.

If you are eligible to renew by mail, the NJ MVC will send you “Skip the Trip” package which outlines all the requirements you must meet. If not, you will be required to make an in-person visit at your local NJ DMV and provide documents that satisfy the 6 Point ID verification requirements. You must also pay $24 renewal fee.

Additionally, the NJ DMV requires drivers to undergo periodic vision tests when renewing drivers license.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in New Jersey

How do I apply for a drivers license?
In order to be eligible to apply for a drivers license in New Jersey, you must have held a probationary drivers license for at least one year. To get your unrestricted NJ drivers license, visit your local MVC office and complete the following steps:
  1. Present your provisional license
  2. Submit documents that meet the 6 Point ID Verification requirements
  3. Provide payment for the $24 new driver’s license fee
  4. Have your photo taken

If you are moving to NJ, you can transfer your out-of-state drivers license within 60 days from moving. Out-of-state learners permits cannot be transferred to New Jersey, teen drivers must complete the stages of the New Jersey GDL program in order to obtain a NJ unrestricted driving license.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in New Jersey

How do I get a hardship license?
The state of New Jersey does not issue any temporary, provisional or work licenses which permit the driver to operate a motor vehicle during certain hours of the day, or for the purpose of traveling to work.

NJ state laws do not allow the issuance of a hardship license after a DWI conviction or any violation that has resulted in a suspension on your drivers license. Moreover, driving on a suspended license incurs harsh penalties in New Jersey, such as five years of jail time.

For more information: Suspended License Information for New Jersey

How do I get a replacement license if I am in the military and stationed elsewhere?
If you are a military member on active duty outside of New Jersey or the country, you are allowed to apply for a duplicate drivers license by mail. To do so, send the following to the NJ MVC:
  • A letter with information why you can’t come in-person to get a duplicate drivers license, including how long you expect to be gone
  • A completed Application for Driver’s License (Form BA-208)
  • Check or money order for $11 made out to to the NJ MVC
  • Documents that meet the 6 points identification verification requirements
  • Current out-of-state or out-of-country address

Mail the package to the following address:

Motor Vehicle Commission Government/Out-of-State Unit P.O. Box 016 Trenton, New Jersey 08666-0016

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated New Jersey Driver’s License or ID Card

How do I know if my license was mailed after it has been restored?
The best way to find out if your drivers license has been mailed out is by contacting the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, directly. To do so, call their toll-free number at 888-486-3339.

If you need same day reinstatement of your driving license, make an in-person visit to any MVC office.

For more information: Suspended License Information for New Jersey

How do I obtain a duplicate license?
Drivers in New Jersey can apply for a drivers license replacement if their license has been lost, stolen, destroyed or damaged beyond legibility. To replace a New Jersey driving license, visit your local NJ DMV and follow these steps:
  1. Provide documents that satisfy the 6 Point ID Verification requirements
  2. Complete an Application for Driver’s License (Form BA-208)
  3. Pay the $11 fee

You may apply for a duplicate drivers license by mail, but only if you meet the requirements.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated New Jersey Driver’s License or ID Card

How do I reinstate after a revocation as a Habitual Traffic Offender?
A habitual offender is defined as a New Jersey driver whose drivers license has been suspended three times in three years. Reinstating a suspended drivers license as a Habitual Traffic Offender is the same as restoring a suspended license after your first offence.

Drivers must meet all the restoration requirements listed on the suspension notice, pay the restoration fee and wait to receive a restoration notice in the mail in order to obtain a reinstated driving license.

Keep in mind that you might be faced with stricter penalties and higher fees when reinstating a suspended drivers license as a habitual offender.

For more information: Suspended License Information for New Jersey

How do I reinstate my suspended license?
Drivers in NJ are eligible to reinstate a suspended drivers license once all the restoration requirements, as listed on a NJ suspension notice, have been met. After your suspension period expires and all the conditions have been satisfied, the NJ MVC will mail you a Notice of Restoration and you will be required to pay the $100 restoration fee.

Once you pay the applicable fee, visit a local NJ DMV office and present documents that satisfy the 6 Point ID requirements. A restored NJ driving license will be issued to you that same day.

For more information: Suspended License Information for New Jersey

How do I renew my license if I am in the military and stationed elsewhere?
If you are a military member who is on active military duty or a New Jersey National Guard and Reserve member, your NJ drivers license will be automatically extended until you are fully discharged.

If you are demobilized, you will be required to renew your expired drivers license within two weeks of the date you were demobilized. Make sure you carry the extension letter and documents proving you are on active duty when driving your vehicle.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in New Jersey

How do I replace my license if I am a non-U.S. citizen?
The process to replace driving license in New Jersey is the same for US and non-US citizens. The major difference lies in the documents you need to provide to meet the 6-point ID program requirements. If you are not a US citizen, you must provide the following documents:
  • One primary proof of identity:
    • Foreign passport with INS or USCIS verification
    • Foreign passport with valid Form I-551 stamp
    • Current alien registration card
    • Refugee travel document (Form I-571)
  • One secondary proof of identity:
    • Current photo employment authorization card
  • Valid Social Security card
  • Proof of NJ residency:
    • Utility bills
    • Bank statements

Keep in mind that the documents presented must be original forms, as the NJ MVC does not accept copies. You will also be required to complete the drivers license replacement application form and pay the applicable fee. You can replace your drivers license in person at a New Jersey DMV location or by mail if you are currently residing out of state.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated New Jersey Driver’s License or ID Card

How do I replace my license if I lost it out of state?
Drivers in New Jersey must meet the following requirements in order to be eligible to request a drivers license replacement by mail:
  • Applicants drivers license cannot have been lost for over three years.
  • Applicant cannot be currently living in the state of NJ (the DMV does not send temporary permits to NJ addresses).
  • Applicant must be a citizen of the US.
  • Applicant cannot be a CDL holder.
  • Applicant must have a valid New Jersey drivers license.

Also note that only non-digital licenses can be replaced. If your license has a digital picture, you cannot apply for replacement, but instead you must renew your NJ drivers license.

If you meet the aforementioned requirements, send the following documents to the NJ MVC to replace lost drivers license:

  • A letter with information why you can’t come in-person to get a duplicate drivers license, including how long you expect to be gone.
  • A completed Application for Driver’s License (Form BA-208).
  • A check or money order for $11 made out to to the NJ MVC.
  • Documents that meet the 6 points identification verification requirements
  • Current out-of-state or out-of-country address.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated New Jersey Driver’s License or ID Card

How does the DMV check my vision?
The vision test is administered at New Jersey MVC offices across the state. During the test, a DMV representative will ask you to read a line on an eye chart with both of your eyes open and then another line with each eye individually.

The NJ MVC requires drivers to have 20/50 visual acuity in at least one eye with or without corrective lenses. If a driver fails the vision exam, he/she must visit their doctor and complete a ST-14 form.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in New Jersey

How long will I have a suspended license for not taking a chemical test?
New Jersey has implemented the “implied consent” law, which means that you must take a breathalyzer test if pulled over by the NJ police. Drivers who refuse to undergo a chemical test, will be detained and brought to a hospital where they will have to submit a blood sample for analysis.

The length of your suspension for refusing to take or failing a blood test ranges from seven to 12 months depending on the number of times you have been convicted of a DUI/DWI.

For more information: Suspended License Information for New Jersey

How soon can I renew my driver’s license?
In New Jersey, drivers are allowed to renew an expired NJ driving license as early as six months before it expires. The NJ Motor Vehicle Commission will send you a notice in the mail at least ninety days before your license expires, reminding you to renew your drivers license.

If you are eligible to renew by mail, the NJ MVC will send you a “Skip the Trip” package, which outlines all the requirements you must meet. If not, drivers must make an in-person visit at a local NJ DMV and provide documents that satisfy the 6 Point ID verification requirements.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in New Jersey

If I file a police report, will my replacement fee be waived?
If you have provided a police report when requesting a drivers license replacement, is to the discretion of the New Jersey MVC if your duplicate drivers license fee will be waived or not.

In any case, NJ state laws require you to file a police report if your drivers license is lost or stolen, as this will protect you from possible fraudulent activity and identity theft.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated New Jersey Driver’s License or ID Card

If my drivers license has been lost or stolen, how can I get it flagged with the DMV?
The DMV might flag your license number if another driver is pulled over by the police and presents your driving license as their own. Also, a DMV clerk might suggest that you should apply for a duplicate license. However, to be on the safe side, immediately report your drivers license as lost or stolen at your local NJ DMV office.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated New Jersey Driver’s License or ID Card

Is there an age limit to renew your license?
No, there is no age limit to renew a NJ drivers license. The same rules and regulations in the drivers license renewal process apply for NJ drivers of all ages. The NJ DMV allows drivers to renew expired drivers license by mail or in person at a New Jersey MVC locations across the state.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in New Jersey

What address will my replacement license be mailed to?
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission does not mail duplicate drivers licenses to mailing addresses. Residents must obtain a driving license replacement in person at a local NJ MVC office.

NJ residents who are temporarily out-of-state and meet the requirements to replace a lost drivers license by mail, will receive their temporary license at the out-of-state or out-of-country address they provide in the application form.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated New Jersey Driver’s License or ID Card

What are requirements for seniors to renew a driving license?
The same regulations that apply to all NJ drivers when renewing their licenses, apply to senior drivers as well. A New Jersey drivers license is good for four years and must be renewed before it expires in person or by mail. If you have a valid NJ license to drive, you can renew it up to six months before it expires.

The NJ MVC will send you a renewal notice, which outlines all the requirements you must meet to renew drivers license as well as specify if you are eligible to renew by mail. If not, you must visit a local NJ DMV and provide documents that meet the 6 Point ID verification requirements. You must also pay the $24 renewal fee.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in New Jersey

What are some violations that may constitute in a suspended license?
There are several reasons why the New Jersey MVC would suspend your driving privileges. Some of the reasons that could result in a drivers license suspension are listed below:

For more information: Suspended License Information for New Jersey

What are the consequences of driving with a suspended license?
The penalties of driving with a suspended drivers license imposed by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, depend on the severity of the offence and the number of times the driver has been convicted of it. The fines and penalties implemented in New Jersey vary from points being added to your NJ drivers record to a license suspension. However, driving on a suspended drivers license will lead to harsher penalties, such as 5 years imprisonment in a correctional facility.

For more information: Suspended License Information for New Jersey

What are the fees for a duplicate drivers license?
The fee to obtain a duplicate driving license in New Jersey is $11. Applicants must provide payment for the replacement fee upon visiting NJ MVC offices. Check your local NJ DMV location for acceptable methods of payment.

If you are eligible to replace lost drivers license by mail, provide a check or money order for the $11 replacement fee and send it to the NJ DMV along with the completed application form and necessary documents.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated New Jersey Driver’s License or ID Card

What are the reinstatement fees I will have to pay for a suspended license?
The basic restoration fee drivers in NJ need to pay to reinstate a suspended drivers license is $100. However, other reinstatement fees may apply, such as an annual surcharge or court fees, depending on the reason for your suspension.

There are several ways to pay the NJ restoration fees, which include:

  • Online
  • In person
  • By mail

For more information: Suspended License Information for New Jersey

What are the suspensions eligible for a hardship license?
The state of New Jersey does not have any temporary, provisional or work licenses, which allow the driver to operate a motor vehicle during certain hours of the day, or for the purpose of traveling to work.

NJ state laws do not allow the issuance of a hardship license after a DWI conviction or any violation that has resulted in a suspension on your drivers license. Moreover, driving on a suspended license incurs harsh penalties in New Jersey, such as five years of jail time.

For more information: Suspended License Information for New Jersey

What do I need to do to get my driver’s license if I fail the driving test?
If you fail the driving exam required in order to obtain a NJ drivers license, you must wait for a minimum of two weeks before being allowed to re-take the test. If you fail the driving test more than twice, you will be required to wait at least six months before re-taking the NJ skills test.

When taking the DMV drivers test, make sure you are accompanied by a licensed driver and present forms of ID as required under the 6 Point ID Verification Program. Applicants must also provide a fully registered vehicle with current inspection sticker and insurance card to use when taking the drivers exam.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in New Jersey

What documents do I need to get my drivers license?
Drivers license applicants must meet the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission 6 Point ID Verification requirements in order to obtain a license to drive. To do so, new drivers must present the following documents:
  • One primary proof of identity
  • One secondary proof of identity
  • Proof of valid Social Security Number
  • Proof of address

For more help regarding the selection of documents and satisfying the requirements, visit the MVC website. If you have an out-of-state drivers license, you must surrender it to the NJ MVC when applying for a new driving license.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in New Jersey

What documents do I need to present to renew my drivers license?
There are two ways to renew a New Jersey drivers license: in person or by mail. If you are eligible to renew by mail, the NJ MVC will send you a “Skip the Trip” package, which outlines all the requirements you must meet. Applicants will be required to complete the application included in the package and mail it along with a check or money order for the renewal fee to the NJ MVC.

If you are not allowed to renew your expired drivers license by mail, visit a NJ DMV location and provide documents that meet the NJ 6 point ID verification requirements. These include:

  • One primary proof of identity:
    • Current NJ drivers license
    • Birth certificate
    • US passport
  • One secondary proof of identity:
    • Military ID
    • Marriage certificate
  • Proof of valid Social Security Number
  • Proof of address:
    • Utility bills
    • Bank statements

For more information on selecting the right documents and satisfying the requirements of the 6 point ID verification program, visit the MVC website. Also make sure you provide payment of $24 for the renewal fee.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in New Jersey

What documents will I need to present to replace my drivers license?
To replace a NJ driving license, visit a NJ DMV location and present documents that meet the 6 Point ID Verification requirements, which include:
  • One primary proof of identity:
    • Current NJ drivers license
    • Birth certificate
    • US passport
  • One secondary proof of identity:
    • Military ID
    • Marriage certificate
  • Proof of valid Social Security Number
  • Proof of address:
    • Utility bills
    • Bank statements

For more information on selecting the right documents and satisfying the requirements of the 6 point ID verification program, visit the MVC website. You are also required to complete the Application for Driver’s License (Form BA-208). This form is not available for download and can only be obtained at a New Jersey DMV office.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated New Jersey Driver’s License or ID Card

What languages is the written test available in?
The New Jersey written drivers test is available in the following languages:
  • English
  • Arabic
  • Chinese
  • French
  • Spanish
  • Korean
  • Polish
  • Portuguese
  • Russian
  • Japanese

In addition, the New Jersey MVC offers oral tests in English and Spanish. If your native language is not the list, you are allowed to use the services of a state-approved interpreter when taking the DMV drivers exam.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in New Jersey

What penalties will I face if I do not renew my expired drivers license?
Driving with an expired driving license is illegal in New Jersey. Possible penalties include a fine in the amount of $150 and even a drivers license suspension.

Also, keep in mind that if you have not renewed your drivers license within three years after the expiration date, you will have to apply for a new drivers license.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in New Jersey

What should I do if I have not received my renewed license?
It usually takes the New Jersey MVC ten business days to process the documentation and payment and issue your renewed NJ drivers license. If your renewed driving license has not arrived by that time, contact the NJ DMV for more details on the delivery status of your license to drive.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in New Jersey

What tests will I need to take for my drivers license?
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission does not require you to take any tests when applying for drivers license. However, you must have held a learners permit for at least six months and a probationary drivers license for at least one year before being eligible for a new NJ driving license. First-time drivers applying for a learners permit must take the following tests:
  • Vision test
  • Written knowledge test
  • Driving exam

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in New Jersey

What type of noncommercial license will I need?
The NJ Motor Vehicle Commission issues the following types of non-commercial drivers licenses:
  • Learners permits and restricted licenses for first-time drivers under the Graduated Drivers License program, which include:
    • Student learners permit
    • Examination permit
    • Probationary license
  • Basic automobile license (class D), which is issued to non-commercial drivers who are 18 years of age and older.
  • Motorcycle license (class E) , which can be issued as a separate license or endorsement on your existing NJ driving license.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in New Jersey

When can I reinstate my license after it has been suspended?
Drivers can reinstate a suspended drivers license if they have met all the restoration requirements as listed on a NJ suspension notice. After a suspension period expires and all the conditions have been satisfied, the NJ MVC will send you a Notice of Restoration. Drivers will then be required to pay the $100 restoration fee.

For more information: Suspended License Information for New Jersey

When will I need to renew my license?
The New Jersey license to drive is valid for four years and must be renewed before its expiration date in person or by mail. The NJ Motor Vehicle Commission allows you to renew up to six months before your driving license expires. In addition, you will receive a renewal notice from the New Jersey MVC at least ninety days before your license expires reminding you to renew your drivers license.

Drivers can renew their NJ drivers license by mail or in person at a local NJ MVC.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in New Jersey

When will I receive a replacement license after applying?
Drivers applying for a drivers license replacement in person will be issued a duplicate driving license immediately. Drivers applying by mail must wait a minimum of ten business days for the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission to process the payment and the documentation provided.

If your drivers license copy has not arrived at your out-of-state or out-of-country address within that time, contact the New Jersey DMV to check on the delivery status of your driver s license replacement.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated New Jersey Driver’s License or ID Card

Where can I check to see if my license is suspended?
NJ drivers can check their New Jersey driving record for information on their drivers license status. Drivers can also check if they have met all the reinstatement requirements by visiting a local NJ MVC office or regional service center. To find the nearest NJ MVC, you can use our DMV locator.

For more information: Suspended License Information for New Jersey

Where can I get a new drivers license?
To obtain a new drivers license in New Jersey, drivers must visit a MVC Driver Testing Center. Upon arrival, drivers need to present certain documents required under the 6 Point ID Verification system as well as a current NJ provisional drivers license. Additionally, applicants must pay the $24 new drivers license fee. Check with the DMV near you for accepted methods of payment.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in New Jersey

Will I be required to take a vision test for a drivers license renewal?
Not all drivers have to pass a vision test when renewing expired driving license in New Jersey. However, the NJ MVC administers periodic vision exams for driving license renewals.

The NJ MVC requires drivers to have 20/50 visual acuity in at least one eye with or without corrective lenses. If a driver fails the vision exam, he/she must visit their doctor and complete a ST-14 form.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in New Jersey

Will I get a drivers license renewal notice in the mail?
Yes, the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission will send you a notice in the mail at least ninety days before your license expires reminding you to renew your drivers license.

If you are eligible to renew by mail, the NJ MVC will also send you a “Skip the Trip” package, which outlines all the requirements you must meet. If not, you need to make an in-person visit at your local NJ DMV and provide documents that satisfy the 6 Point ID verification requirements.

However, keep in mind that even if you do not receive a renewal notice in the mail, it is your responsibility to check the status of your NJ driving license. To do so, you can request a copy of your New Jersey drivers record.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in New Jersey