You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at an MVC office

New Jersey lets you update your address without renewing your license. The fastest route is the online system at nj.gov/mvc, which takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you prefer not to use the website, you can mail a form to the Motor Vehicle Commission or walk into a local office with proof of your new address.

The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the change recorded and whether you have the documents ready. Online processing typically completes within one business day. Mail takes one to two weeks. In-person visits at an MVC office usually finish the same day, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change at nj.gov/mvc is free and the fastest option, completing within one business day.
  • You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and proof of your new address to change it online.
  • Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
  • If you mail the change, use Form BA-298 and include a copy of your proof of address; processing takes one to two weeks.
  • Changing your address does not renew your license or change its expiration date.

Changing your address online through the MVC website

Go to nj.gov/mvc and look for the "Address Change" option in the online services section. You will need your New Jersey driver's license number, your Social Security number, and your new address. The system will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your driving record and personal history.

After you submit the change, the MVC sends a confirmation email to the address on file with your process. Your new address appears in the system within one business day. You do not receive a new physical license card — your current card remains valid, but your address is updated in the state database. This matters because police, insurance companies, and government agencies all check the MVC database, not your card.

Mailing an address change form to the MVC

read or request Form BA-298 (Address Change process) from nj.gov/mvc. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Attach a copy of one document that proves your new address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail all work. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and new address.

Mail the completed form and proof to: Motor Vehicle Commission, P.O. Box 403, Trenton, NJ 08625. Processing takes one to two weeks from the date the MVC receives your envelope. Keep a copy for your records. If you do not receive confirmation after two weeks, call the MVC at 609-292-6500 to check the status.

Changing your address in person at an MVC office

Visit any Motor Vehicle Commission office with your current driver's license and one document proving your new address. Bring the original document, not a copy — staff will verify it and return it to you. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government correspondence dated within the last 60 days.

Walk-in service is available at most offices, but you can also make an appointment through nj.gov/mvc to skip the line. Processing at the counter takes about 10 minutes. Your address updates when ready in the system, and you walk out with your license unchanged. Like the online method, your physical card stays the same; only the database record changes.

What counts as proof of your new address

The MVC accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. Lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, and homeowner's insurance documents all work. Government mail — such as a tax notice, voter registration card, or benefits statement — also counts.

Bank statements and credit card statements are not accepted as proof of address. Neither are documents with only a P.O. box or documents that show someone else's name. If your name does not yet appear on a utility bill or lease at your new address, ask the utility company or landlord for a letter confirming your residency, dated within 60 days.

When you need a new license card instead of just an address change

Changing your address does not trigger a new license card. Your current card remains valid until its expiration date, even after you move. However, if your card is damaged, lost, or stolen, you will need to replace it — and you can update your address at the same time.

If you want your new address printed on a physical card before your license expires, you can renew early. New Jersey allows you to renew up to one year before expiration. Renewal costs $24 for a four-year license and includes a new card with your current address. You can renew online, by mail, or in person using the same methods as an address change.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to see my new address in the system?

Online changes process within one business day. Mail takes one to two weeks. In-person changes update when ready. The MVC database is what police and insurance companies check, so your address is official once it appears there — your physical card does not need to change.

Do I get a new license card when I change my address?

No. Your current card stays valid with your old address printed on it. The MVC database shows your new address, which is what matters for official purposes. If you want a card with your new address printed on it, you must renew your license.

What if I do not have a utility bill or lease at my new address yet?

Ask your landlord, property manager, or utility company for a letter on official letterhead confirming your residency. It must show your name, your new address, and be dated within the last 60 days. This counts as proof for an address change.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended or expired?

You can change your address online or by mail even if your license is suspended or expired. In-person changes at an MVC office may be restricted depending on the reason for suspension. Call 609-292-6500 to confirm before visiting an office.

What happens if I move again before my address change is processed?

If you are changing by mail and move again before the MVC receives your form, contact the MVC at 609-292-6500 to update your process. For online or in-person changes, you can submit a new address change when ready — the system accepts multiple updates.