You can change your New Jersey driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at an MVC office

New Jersey allows you to update your address without renewing your license. The fastest route is the online system at nj.gov/mvc, which takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you cannot use the online portal, you can mail a form to the Motor Vehicle Commission or visit a local office in person. The address change itself does not require a new photo or a new license card — your current license remains valid.

You will need proof of your new address, your current driver's license number, and your Social Security number. Proof of address means a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and the new address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change at nj.gov/mvc is free and takes about 10 minutes, and you do not need to visit an office or mail anything.
  • You will need proof of your new address dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
  • If you use the mail route, send Form BA-298 to the Motor Vehicle Commission along with a copy of your proof of address.
  • An in-person address change at an MVC office takes about 15 to 30 minutes and requires the same documents as the online method.
  • Your current driver's license remains valid after the address change — you do not receive a new card.

Changing your address online through the MVC portal

Go to nj.gov/mvc and select the option to change your address. You will log in with your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will ask you to enter your new address and confirm your current information.

After you submit, the MVC updates your record within one business day. You will receive a confirmation email. Your new address appears in the system when ready, even though your physical license card still shows the old address. When you renew your license in the future, the new card will print with the updated address.

Mailing a form to the Motor Vehicle Commission

If you prefer not to use the online system, read or request Form BA-298 (Address Change) from nj.gov/mvc. Fill in your new address, sign the form, and make a copy of your proof of address. Mail both to the Motor Vehicle Commission at the address listed on the form.

Processing by mail takes 7 to 10 business days after the MVC receives your envelope. There is no fee. Keep a copy of what you mail in case you need to follow up. If you do not have a printer or cannot read the form, call the MVC at 609-292-6500 to request a paper copy by mail.

Changing your address in person at an MVC office

Visit any Motor Vehicle Commission office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Bring the original proof-of-address document — a photocopy is not sufficient. The staff will update your record on the spot, and you will receive a confirmation receipt.

MVC offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and some locations have extended hours on certain days. Wait times vary by location and time of day; visiting early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter lines. Find your nearest office and current hours at nj.gov/mvc.

What counts as proof of your new address

The document must show your name and your new address, and it must be dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a bank or credit card statement, or a homeowners or renters insurance policy.

The document must be an original or an official copy — a screenshot or a photo of a document on your phone is not accepted. If your name does not appear on the document exactly as it appears on your driver's license, bring a second document that shows both names, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Updating your address if you moved out of state

If you have moved to another state, you should obtain a driver's license in your new state rather than updating your New Jersey address. New Jersey will not update your record if your new address is outside the state. Once you have a license in your new state, you can let your New Jersey license expire or formally surrender it to avoid confusion.

If you are temporarily out of state but still a New Jersey resident, you can update your address to a New Jersey address (such as a family member's home or a mailing address) using any of the three methods above.

What happens to your physical license card after an address change

Your current driver's license card remains valid and does not need to be replaced. The card will still show your old address, but the MVC's system reflects your new address. When you renew your license — typically every four or eight years depending on your age — you will receive a new card with the updated address printed on it.

If you need an official document showing your new address before your next renewal, you can request a duplicate license with the new address. This costs a fee and requires visiting an MVC office or mailing in a form. For most purposes, the address change in the system is sufficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for the address change to show up in the system?

Online changes update within one business day. Mail takes 7 to 10 business days after the MVC receives your envelope. In-person changes are when ready — you receive a receipt on the spot.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended or expired?

You can change your address online or by mail even if your license is suspended or expired. If you visit an office in person, staff may ask you to renew your license at the same time, which involves additional fees and documents.

Do I need to change my address if I moved within New Jersey?

Yes. The MVC requires you to update your address within a reasonable time after you move. There is no specific important date, but updating within 30 days is standard practice and avoids potential issues with vehicle registration or law enforcement.

What if my proof of address document does not have my exact name on it?

Bring a second document that shows both your current name and the name on the proof-of-address document, such as a marriage certificate or court order. This explains the name difference to the MVC staff.

Can someone else change my address for me?

No. You must change your address yourself using your own driver's license number and Social Security number. If you are unable to visit an office or use the online system, you can mail the form yourself or have someone mail it on your behalf, but you must sign the form.