New Jersey SPU-89 Form: Remake Existing License Plate – If your New Jersey license plates are lost, stolen, or damaged and you want to keep the exact same plate number, you need Form SPU-89 (also labeled SP-89). This official New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) application lets you order a custom remake of your active plates. The process is handled by mail through the Special Plate Unit and typically takes 10 to 12 weeks.
This guide covers everything U.S. residents (especially New Jersey drivers) need to know about Form SPU-89, based on the latest official NJMVC information.
What Is New Jersey Form SPU-89?
Form SPU-89 is the official “Application to Remake an Existing License Plate” issued by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Its sole purpose is to order a replacement set of plates that carry the identical plate number as your current active registration when the plates have been lost or damaged.
Unlike standard replacement plates issued at an MVC agency (which receive a new sequential number), the SPU-89 process produces custom-made duplicates of your existing number. The current revision is SP-89 (R7/25).
You can download the official form directly from the NJMVC website:
Download New Jersey Form SPU-89 (PDF)
When Do You Need Form SPU-89?
Use Form SPU-89 only when:
- Your plates are lost or stolen and you want to keep the same number
- Your plates are damaged beyond clear readability and you want the same number
- You need identical reflectorized duplicates of an active plate
Do not use this form if you simply want new plates with a different number. In those cases, visit an MVC agency for a standard replacement ($6 for regular plates or $11 for specialty plates).
Required Documents and Materials
To complete your application successfully, gather the following before mailing:
- Completed Form SPU-89
- Photocopy of your current vehicle registration
- Photograph of your existing license plate (if available)
- Copy of your photo identification (driver’s license or other acceptable ID)
- Check or money order for the correct fee made payable to “NJMVC” (cash is not accepted)
Important: If your registration expires within 60 days, renew it first before submitting the SPU-89 application.
Fees for Remaking New Jersey License Plates
The standard fee to remake an existing license plate is $11.00.
Amateur Radio Operator plates cost $15.00 to remake.
Payment must be made by check or money order only, payable to NJMVC. Do not send cash.
How to Complete and Submit Form SPU-89?
- Download and print the form from the official NJMVC link above.
- Clearly write your exact plate number in the designated box (include spaces if applicable). If the plate contains an NJ symbol, mark its location with an asterisk (*).
- Fill in your personal information, vehicle details, and contact phone number.
- Staple a photocopy of your current registration and a photo of the plate to the application.
- Enclose your check or money order for $11 (or $15 for Amateur Radio plates).
- Mail the complete package to the address below.
Mailing Address for Form SPU-89
Send your completed application, fee, and supporting documents to:
Management Operations Services
Special Plate Unit
225 East State Street
P.O. Box 015
Trenton, NJ 08666
Phone for questions related to the Special Plate Unit: 609-777-1674
You may also obtain the form in person at an MVC agency or request one by calling the MVC Customer Support Line.
Processing Time
Because these plates are custom-made, allow 10 to 12 weeks for processing and delivery after the Special Plate Unit receives a complete application. Incomplete applications or missing documents will delay the process.
Additional Options for Lost or Damaged Plates
If you do not need to keep the same plate number:
- For lost or stolen plates with a new number: File a police report, then visit an MVC agency with your registration and ID. Fee is $6 (standard) or $11 (specialty).
- For damaged plates with a new number: Visit an MVC agency, surrender the old plates, and pay the same fees listed above.
Official details on plate replacement are available on the NJMVC website: NJMVC License Plates Information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for Form SPU-89 online?
No. The remake application must be submitted by mail with the required documents and payment.
What if my registration is about to expire?
Renew the registration before mailing the SPU-89 form if it expires within 60 days.
Are the remade plates the same as the originals?
Yes. They are custom-manufactured duplicates of your existing active plate number and design (reflectorized).
Where can I get help?
Contact the Special Plate Unit at 609-777-1674 or visit an MVC agency. General customer support is also available through the main NJMVC phone lines listed on NJMVC.gov.
Download the Official Form Now
Ready to order your remade New Jersey license plates? Download the current official application here:
Download New Jersey Form SPU-89 — Application to Remake an Existing License Plate (PDF)
Always verify the latest version and instructions directly on the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission website before submitting your application. Fees and requirements are subject to change by the NJMVC.