You can change your address with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission online, by mail, or in person at a local office

New Jersey requires you to notify the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) within a reasonable time after you move. You do not need a new license card to update your address — the MVC can change it in their system, and your current card remains valid. The fastest route is the online system if you have a computer and a valid email address. If you prefer to handle it in person or by mail, both options are available and take longer but involve no technology.

The address change itself is free. You will need to prove your new address with a document dated within the last 60 days — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. You will also need your driver's license number and your Social Security number to start the process.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change through the MVC website takes about 10 minutes and is the fastest option if you have email access.
  • You must provide proof of your new address dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
  • If you change your address in person at an MVC office, bring your current license, proof of address, and be prepared to wait in line.
  • By mail, send a completed form with copies of your license and address proof to the MVC; processing takes several weeks.
  • Your current license card stays valid after an address change — you do not need to pay for a replacement card unless you want one.

Changing your address online through the MVC website

Go to nj.gov/mvc and look for the "Online Services" section. Select "Change of Address" from the menu. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to log in. The system will ask you to enter your new address and upload a photo of your proof-of-address document.

Acceptable proof includes a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or phone), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a government document like a property tax bill. The document must show your name, your new address, and a date within the last 60 days. Take a clear photo with your phone or scan the document, then upload it through the website.

After you submit, the MVC sends a confirmation email to the address you provide. The change typically appears in their system within one to two business days. You can then use your updated address for future transactions, even though your physical license card still shows the old address.

Changing your address in person at an MVC office

Find your nearest MVC office on the nj.gov/mvc website and check their hours before you go. Bring your current driver's license, your proof of address (dated within 60 days), and be ready to wait. In-person visits do not require an appointment at most locations, but wait times vary widely depending on the office and time of day.

When you reach the counter, tell the staff member you need to change your address. They will verify your identity using your license, check your proof of address, and update your record in the system. The change is usually complete within minutes. You will receive a receipt confirming the update, and your address will be changed in the MVC database when ready.

Your physical license card will still show your old address, but your official record with the state is updated. If you want a new card with the correct address printed on it, you can request one, though there is a fee for a replacement card (the fee varies and you should ask the staff member for the current amount).

Changing your address by mail

read the "Change of Address" form from nj.gov/mvc or call the MVC at 609-292-6500 to request one. Fill out the form completely with your name, license number, old address, and new address. Make a photocopy of both sides of your current driver's license and a photocopy of your proof of address.

Mail the completed form, copies of your license, and copies of your address proof to the address listed on the form. The MVC processes mail submissions in the order they arrive, and processing typically takes two to four weeks. You will not receive a confirmation in the mail — your address change is complete when it appears in the system, which you can verify by logging into your MVC online account or calling 609-292-6500.

Keep a copy of everything you mail for your records. If you do not hear back within a month, call the MVC to confirm receipt and ask about the status of your request.

What happens if you move and do not update your address

The MVC can suspend your license if you do not update your address within a reasonable time, though what counts as "reasonable" depends on the circumstances. More when ready, if you receive a traffic ticket or other notice from the court, it will be mailed to the address on file. If that address is old, you may not receive the notice, which can lead to a failure-to-appear charge and additional penalties.

Insurance companies also use the address on your license. If your actual address does not match your policy, your coverage could be affected or claims could be denied. Vehicle registration renewal notices are mailed to the address on file with the MVC, so updating your address ensures you receive those notices on time.

Updating your address if your license is expired or suspended

You can still change your address online or by mail even if your license is expired or suspended. The address change does not affect the status of your license — it only updates where the state has on file for you. If your license is suspended, changing your address does not lift the suspension, but it ensures the MVC can contact you about reinstatement requirements.

If you are changing your address because you moved out of state, you should also contact your new state's motor vehicle agency to obtain a license there. New Jersey will not revoke your license straightforward because you moved, but driving with an out-of-state address on your New Jersey license can create confusion during traffic stops or insurance claims.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to change my address online?

The online submission takes about 10 minutes to complete. The MVC updates your record in their system within one to two business days. You will receive a confirmation email once the change is processed.

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

No. Your current license card remains valid even after your address changes in the system. You only need a new card if you want the new address printed on it, which requires paying a replacement fee.

What counts as proof of address?

The document must show your name, your new address, and a date within the last 60 days. Utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, and property tax bills all work. The document cannot be a cell phone bill or a credit card statement alone.

Can I change my address if I am homeless or living temporarily?

Contact the MVC directly at 609-292-6500 to discuss your situation. They may allow you to use a shelter address, a friend's address, or a mailing address temporarily while you establish permanent housing. Bring documentation of your current living situation when you visit.

What if I submitted my address change and it has not appeared in the system after two weeks?

Call the MVC at 609-292-6500 with your license number and the date you submitted your request. They can check the status and tell you whether the change was processed or if there is a problem with your submission.