Update your address online, by mail, or in person at the MVC

You can change your New Jersey driver's license address without renewing your license. The Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) lets you update your address through their website, by mail, or by visiting a licensing center in person. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you use mail or visit in person, you'll need to bring proof of your new address and your current license.

New Jersey requires you to notify the MVC of an address change within a reasonable time after you move. Driving with an outdated address on your license won't result in a ticket, but it can complicate things if you're stopped by police or need to renew your license later. Insurance companies also use your license address, so updating it helps avoid coverage gaps.

Key Takeaways

  • The MVC online portal at nj.gov/mvc is the fastest way to change your address — it takes minutes and costs nothing.
  • If you change your address online, you'll receive a corrected license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
  • You can also mail a form or visit an MVC licensing center, but both take longer and require proof of your new address.
  • Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
  • Your license number and expiration date stay the same — only the address on the card changes.

Changing your address online through the MVC website

Go to nj.gov/mvc and log into your account using your driver's license number and date of birth. If you don't have an online account, you'll need to create one first — this takes a few minutes and requires your Social Security number, date of birth, and license number. Once logged in, select "Change Address" or "Update Personal Information" from the menu.

Enter your new address exactly as it appears on your proof of address document. The MVC will mail you a corrected license to that address within 7 to 10 business days. You don't need to bring anything in person or pay a fee. Your current license remains valid until the new one arrives.

Mailing in an address change form

If you prefer not to use the online portal, you can mail Form BA-56 (process for Correction/Change of Name, Address, or Signature on Driver's License) to the MVC. You'll find this form on the MVC website or can request it by phone at 609-292-6500. Include a copy of your proof of address with the form.

Mail the form to the address listed on the MVC website for your region. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date the MVC receives it, plus mail time both ways. There is no fee for an address change. Include a note with your driver's license number so the MVC can match your request to your file quickly.

Visiting an MVC licensing center in person

You can walk into any MVC licensing center and request an address change on the spot. Bring your current driver's license and one document that proves your new address. The MVC will issue you a corrected license when ready — you'll walk out with it the same day. There is no fee.

MVC licensing centers are open Monday through Friday, with some locations open on Saturday mornings. Wait times vary by location and time of day; visiting early in the week or early in the morning typically means shorter lines. You can check wait times and hours for your nearest center on the MVC website.

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), lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill all work. Government mail — such as a tax notice or voter registration card — also counts. A bank statement or credit card statement with your name and address is acceptable as well.

The document must be an original or certified copy; photocopies are not accepted. If your name on the document doesn't match your license exactly (for example, you use a middle initial on one but not the other), bring a second document that shows both versions of your name, or bring a marriage certificate or court order if your name has legally changed.

Timeline and what to expect after you change your address

If you change your address online, your corrected license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you mail in a form, allow 2 to 3 weeks for processing plus mail time. If you visit in person, you receive your corrected license when ready. Your license number and expiration date do not change — only the address on the card is updated.

Once your new license arrives, destroy your old one or return it to an MVC office if you prefer. Update your address with your auto insurance company as well, since they may use your license address for billing and coverage purposes. If you move again before your license expires, you can change your address again using the same methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address on my license if I move?

New Jersey law requires you to notify the MVC of an address change within a reasonable time. You won't be ticketed for driving with an outdated address, but updating it prevents problems if you're stopped by police and helps may support your license renewal goes smoothly.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

Yes. You can update your address on an expired license, but you'll need to renew your license at the same time if it has been expired for more than a few months. Contact the MVC to confirm whether you need to renew or can straightforward change the address.

What if my proof of address document doesn't have my full name?

Bring a second document that shows your full name and address, such as a bank statement or government mail. If your name has legally changed, bring a marriage certificate or court order along with your proof of address.

Will changing my address affect my insurance?

Your insurance company uses your license address for billing and coverage. Update your address with your insurer at the same time you update your license to avoid any gaps or billing issues.

Can someone else change my address for me?

No. You must change your address yourself using the online portal, by mail with your signature, or in person. The MVC will not accept an address change request from another person.