Where to change your address and what you need

You can change your address on your New Jersey driver's license at any Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office, online through the MVC website, or by mail. The fastest route is online if you have a valid email address and your current license number — the change takes a few minutes and costs nothing. If you prefer in-person service or your license is expired, you'll need to visit an MVC office with proof of your new address.

New Jersey requires one document showing your current address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. You'll also bring your current driver's license or ID card.

If you're changing your address because you moved out of state or your license is suspended, revoked, or expired by more than six months, you cannot use the online method — you must visit an MVC office in person.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change through the MVC website takes minutes, costs nothing, and works if your license is current and you have your license number and email address.
  • You need one document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • In-person changes at an MVC office take the same documents but may involve a wait; bring your current license and address proof.
  • Mail-in changes require the same documents plus a completed form, but processing takes several weeks.
  • If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, you must visit an MVC office — the online option will not work.

Changing your address online

Go to the MVC website and select the option to change your address. You'll enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. Then you'll type your new address and confirm your email address. The system will send you a confirmation email — open it and click the link within 24 hours to complete the change.

Once you confirm, your address is updated in the system when ready. You do not need to pay a fee or visit an office. Your physical license card will still show your old address, but the MVC records are correct, and that's what law enforcement and government agencies see when they look you up.

The online method only works if your license is not expired and you have not had it suspended or revoked. If either of those applies, skip to the in-person section below.

Changing your address in person at an MVC office

Bring your current driver's license or ID card and one document showing your new address dated within the last 60 days. Walk into any MVC office during business hours — you do not need an appointment for an address change. Tell the clerk you want to update your address.

The clerk will verify your documents, update your record, and issue you a new license card with your new address printed on it. The new card is usually ready the same day or within a few business days, depending on the office. There is no fee for an address change on a current license.

Wait times at MVC offices vary widely by location and time of day. Offices in smaller towns typically have shorter waits than those in cities. If you want to check the current wait time before you go, some MVC offices post estimated wait times on the MVC website.

Changing your address by mail

read the Address Change form from the MVC website (form BA-49) or request one by calling the MVC at 609-292-6500. Fill out the form with your current license number, new address, and signature. Include a copy of one document showing your new address dated within the last 60 days.

Mail the completed form and document copy to the address listed on the form. Processing takes two to four weeks. You will receive a new license card by mail at your new address. There is no fee.

Use the mail-in method only if you cannot visit an office or use the online system. It is slower than both other options and gives you no way to track progress until your new card arrives.

What happens if your license is expired or suspended

If your license expired less than six months ago, you can still use the online address change method. If it expired more than six months ago, or if your license is suspended or revoked, you must visit an MVC office in person.

Bring your expired or suspended license, one document showing your new address, and any other documents the MVC requires to reinstate your license (such as proof of insurance if the suspension was for unpaid tickets). The clerk will handle both the address change and the reinstatement at the same visit.

Updating your address for vehicle registration

Changing your driver's license address does not automatically update your vehicle registration. You must change your registration address separately through the MVC. You can do this online, in person at an MVC office, or by mail using form BA-49 (the same form used for license address changes).

Your registration must match your current address within 30 days of moving. If you do not update it and are pulled over, you could receive a ticket. Update your registration at the same time you update your license to avoid the extra trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a new license card with my new address?

If you change your address online, your record updates when ready, though your physical card still shows the old address. If you change it in person at an MVC office, you receive a new card the same day or within a few business days. By mail, it takes two to four weeks.

Do I need an appointment to change my address at an MVC office?

No. Address changes do not require an appointment. Walk in during business hours with your license and address proof. Wait times vary by location and time of day.

What documents count as proof of my new address?

A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and address all work. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill or credit card statement does not count.

Can I change my address if I just moved and do not have a document yet?

You need a document dated within the last 60 days. If you just moved and have not received mail at your new address yet, ask your landlord or mortgage company for a lease or mortgage statement with your new address, or request a utility bill from your provider showing the new address.

What if I change my address online but then move again before my new card arrives?

Your address in the MVC system is what matters for legal purposes. If you move again, change your address again through the same method. Your physical card will eventually arrive at your previous address, but you can discard it and use the updated record in the system.