Where to change your address and what you'll need

You can change your address on your New Jersey driver's license or ID card at any Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office, online through the MVC website, or by mail. The online option is fastest if you're only updating your address — you won't need to visit an office or pay a fee. If you choose to go in person or mail your documents, bring your current license or ID card and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

New Jersey requires you to notify the MVC of an address change within 60 days of moving. This is a legal requirement, not optional, and applies whether you're moving within the state or to a new address in New Jersey after living out of state.

Key Takeaways

  • You must report your address change to the MVC within 60 days of moving to avoid potential fines or license suspension.
  • The online method through the MVC website is free and the fastest option if you're only changing your address.
  • In-person visits at any MVC office require your current license and proof of your new address, with no fee charged for the change.
  • Mail-in address changes take longer but work if you cannot visit an office or use the online system.
  • Your new license or ID card will be mailed to your updated address within 7 to 10 business days.

Changing your address online

The MVC online system lets you update your address without leaving home. Go to the New Jersey MVC website, select the address change option, and enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You'll then enter your new address and confirm the change. There is no fee for this transaction.

After you submit your change online, the MVC will mail your updated license or ID card to your new address. The card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Your old card remains valid until the new one arrives, so you can continue using it for identification during that time.

Changing your address in person at an MVC office

Visit any Motor Vehicle Commission office with your current driver's license or ID card and one document showing your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement — the document must show your name and new address and be dated within the last 60 days. Bring the original document or a certified copy; photocopies alone are not accepted.

Walk-in service is available at most MVC offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day. You can also schedule an appointment through the MVC website to reduce your wait. There is no fee to change your address. The MVC will issue you a new license or ID card on the spot if you're at an office that has card-printing equipment, or mail it to your new address within 7 to 10 business days if the office does not print cards on-site.

Changing your address by mail

Send your current driver's license or ID card along with a completed form and proof of your new address to the MVC by mail. You'll need to read and fill out the appropriate form from the MVC website — typically the "Address Change" form for license holders. Include one document showing your new address dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill or lease.

Mail your documents to the address listed on the MVC website for address change requests. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks, and your new card will be mailed to your updated address. Your old card remains valid during this time. There is no fee for a mail-in address change.

What happens if you don't report your address change

Failing to notify the MVC within 60 days of moving can result in fines and, in some cases, license suspension. The state also uses your address on file for vehicle registration, insurance correspondence, and traffic violations — if your address is outdated, you may miss important notices or citations. If you receive a ticket or are involved in an accident, having an incorrect address on file can complicate the process.

If you've already missed the 60-day window, report your change as soon as possible. The MVC will update your record, though you may face a fine depending on how long the address has been outdated. Contact your local MVC office or check the MVC website for information about any penalties in your specific situation.

Changing your address if your license is suspended or expired

If your license is suspended, you cannot renew or update it through the standard process. You must first resolve the suspension — this may involve paying outstanding fines, completing a defensive driving course, or addressing other violations. Once the suspension is lifted, you can then change your address using any of the methods above.

If your license has expired, you can still change your address online or by mail before renewing. However, if you're renewing and changing your address at the same time, you'll need to visit an MVC office in person or handle the renewal separately from the address change. The MVC website lists which transactions can be combined and which must be done separately.

Updating your address for vehicle registration

Changing your driver's license address does not automatically update your vehicle registration address. You must report your new address to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission for each vehicle you own or lease. You can do this online through the MVC website, by mail, or in person at an MVC office using the vehicle registration address change form.

Like your license, your registration address must be updated within 60 days of moving. Keeping both your license and registration current at the same address ensures you receive all official correspondence, insurance documents, and traffic notices at the correct location.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my new license card after changing my address?

If you change your address online or by mail, your new card arrives within 7 to 10 business days. If you visit an MVC office that prints cards on-site, you may receive your new card when ready; otherwise, it will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days.

Do I have to pay a fee to change my address?

No. Changing your address on your driver's license or ID card is free whether you do it online, in person, or by mail. The MVC does not charge a fee for this transaction.

What counts as proof of my new address?

Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, bank statement, or insurance policy. The document must show your name and new address and be dated within the last 60 days. Original documents or certified copies are required; photocopies are not accepted.

Can I change my address online if my license is expired?

No. The online address change system requires a valid, unexpired license. If your license is expired, you must renew it before you can change your address online, or you can change your address by mail or in person at an MVC office.

What if I moved out of state and then moved back to New Jersey?

You must update your address with the MVC within 60 days of your return to New Jersey, just as you would for any move. Use any of the three methods — online, in person, or by mail — to report your new New Jersey address.