Where to renew and what you need to bring
You can renew your New Jersey driver's license in person at any Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office, or online through the MVC website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route is straightforward: bring your current license, proof of New Jersey residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 12 months), and your Social Security number. If your address has changed, bring a document showing your new address.
Online renewal is faster but only works if your license is not expired, you have no medical conditions flagged on your record, and your name and address match what the MVC has on file. You'll need your current license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The MVC will mail your new license to the address on file.
If you're renewing in person, you don't need an appointment at most MVC locations, but you can schedule one online to skip the walk-in line. Walk-in wait times vary by location and time of day; early morning and weekday visits are typically shorter.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal takes about 10 business days and costs $24.50, but only works if your license is current and your information hasn't changed.
- In-person renewal at an MVC office requires your current license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number, and takes about 30 minutes to an hour.
- You can schedule an appointment online to avoid waiting in line, or walk in during off-peak hours.
- Your renewed license is valid for 10 years if you're under 70, or 5 years if you're 70 or older.
How long your renewed license lasts
A renewed New Jersey driver's license is valid for 10 years from the date of issue if you are under 70 years old. If you are 70 or older, your renewed license is valid for 5 years. The expiration date will be printed on your new license.
If you renew online, your new license will arrive by mail within 10 business days. If you renew in person, you'll receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use the temporary license to drive right away.
Cost and payment methods
Online renewal costs $24.50. In-person renewal at an MVC office costs $24.50 as well. You can pay by cash, check, money order, or credit card at an MVC office. Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards only.
If you are a military member on active duty or a spouse of an active-duty service member, you may be able to renew by mail at no cost. Contact your local MVC office or the MVC website to confirm whether you meet the requirements.
What happens if your license has been expired for more than a year
If your license expired more than one year ago, you cannot renew it online. You must renew in person at an MVC office. Bring the same documents as for a standard renewal: your expired license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.
If your license has been expired for more than five years, the MVC may require you to take a written knowledge test and a road test before issuing a new license. Call your local MVC office or check the MVC website to find out what your specific situation requires.
Renewing if your name or address has changed
If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or a legal name change, you must renew in person. Bring your current license, a certified copy of the document showing the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), proof of residency at your new address, and your Social Security number.
If only your address has changed, you can renew online as long as you update your address with the MVC first. You can change your address online through the MVC website without renewing your license. Once your address is updated, you can proceed with online renewal.
What to do if you need your license before the mail arrives
If you renew in person, you receive a temporary paper license when ready that is valid for driving. This temporary license is good until your plastic card arrives by mail, which typically takes 7 to 10 business days.
If you renewed online and need to drive before your new license arrives, you can visit an MVC office to request a temporary license. Bring your confirmation email or receipt from your online renewal. The temporary license costs $5 and is valid until your plastic card arrives.
Renewing if you have a commercial driver's license
If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), you cannot renew online. You must renew in person at an MVC office. Bring your current CDL, proof of residency, your Social Security number, and a valid medical certificate if your CDL requires one. Medical certificates are required for most CDL holders and must be current or renewed at the same time as your license.
CDL renewals take longer than standard license renewals because the MVC must verify your medical status and commercial driving record. Plan for a longer appointment or wait time if you renew in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it's suspended or revoked?
No. You must resolve the suspension or revocation before you can renew. Contact the MVC or the court that issued the suspension to find out what steps you need to take. Once the suspension or revocation is lifted, you can renew your license.
What if I lost my license and need to renew it?
You cannot renew a lost license online. You must go to an MVC office in person and request a replacement. Bring proof of residency and your Social Security number. The replacement costs $24.50 and you'll receive a temporary license when ready.
Do I need a new photo when I renew?
If you renew online, your photo from your current license is used. If you renew in person, the MVC will take a new photo. You cannot request to keep your old photo during an in-person renewal.
How do I know which MVC office is closest to me?
The MVC website has a location finder where you can enter your zip code and see all nearby offices, their hours, and whether they accept appointments. Some offices are appointment-only; others accept walk-ins.
What if my address on file with the MVC is wrong?
You can update your address online through the MVC website without renewing your license. Once your address is corrected, you can renew online if your license is still current. If you prefer to update your address in person, bring proof of your new address to any MVC office.