You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at an MVC office

New Jersey lets you update your driver's license address without renewing the entire license. The fastest route is the online system at nj.gov/mvc, which takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you prefer not to use the online portal, you can mail a form to the Motor Vehicle Commission or walk into a local office with proof of your new address.

The method you choose depends on how soon you need the change recorded and whether you have the documents ready. Online is when ready for your record, though the physical card in the mail takes one to two weeks. In-person visits at an MVC office are also quick but require a trip and may involve a wait.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change at nj.gov/mvc is free and takes about 10 minutes, with your record updated the same day.
  • You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and proof of your new address to change it online.
  • If you use the mail or in-person route, bring an original or certified copy of a document showing your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Your updated physical card arrives in one to two weeks by mail; your online record updates when ready.
  • You do not need to renew your entire license to change your address unless your license is expiring within 30 days.

Changing your address online through the MVC website

Go to nj.gov/mvc and log into your account or create one if you do not have one yet. You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and Social Security number to start. The system will ask you to enter your new address and confirm it matches your records.

Once you submit the change online, your address updates in the Motor Vehicle Commission database when ready. You will receive a confirmation email. The MVC will mail you a new physical card with your updated address within one to two weeks. Your old card remains valid until the new one arrives.

There is no fee for an online address change. This is the fastest way to get your record updated if you need proof of your new address for other purposes, such as voter registration or a bank account.

Mailing a form to change your address

read the Address Change form (form BA-49) from nj.gov/mvc or request one by calling the MVC at 609-292-6500. Fill out the form with your current license number, name, and new address. You must include an original or certified copy of a document that shows your new address.

Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Mail the completed form and your proof of address to the Motor Vehicle Commission, P.O. Box 403, Trenton, NJ 08625.

Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks. You will not receive a confirmation email with this method, so keep a copy of what you mailed. Your new card will arrive separately once the address change is processed.

Changing your address in person at an MVC office

Visit any Motor Vehicle Commission office with your driver's license and proof of your new address. Bring an original or certified copy of a document dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement. The staff will process your change on the spot.

You will receive a receipt showing your address has been updated. Your new physical card will be mailed to you within one to two weeks. In-person visits are usually faster than mail but require you to travel to an office during business hours. Wait times vary by location and time of day; arriving early in the morning or on weekday afternoons often means shorter lines.

There is no fee for an in-person address change. If you need to change your address and renew your license at the same time, you can do both in one visit, though that will cost the standard renewal fee.

What documents count as proof of your new address

The MVC accepts original or certified copies of documents dated within the last 60 days. These include utility bills (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, bank or credit card statements, insurance policies, or government mail with your name and address.

The document must show your full name and complete street address. A post office change-of-address form does not count as proof. If you recently moved and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your address, or bring a signed lease agreement.

When to renew your license instead of just changing your address

If your driver's license expires within 30 days of when you want to change your address, the MVC will require you to renew the entire license rather than just update the address. In that case, you will pay the renewal fee (currently $24 for a four-year license or $48 for an eight-year license) and receive a new card with your updated address and extended expiration date.

If your license expires more than 30 days away, you can change only the address for free. Check your license to see the expiration date in the bottom right corner. If you are unsure whether you need to renew, call the MVC at 609-292-6500 or check your status on nj.gov/mvc.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my new card in the mail?

One to two weeks after your address change is processed. If you changed your address online, the MVC begins printing your new card the same day. If you mailed the form or went in person, processing takes a few days before the card is printed and mailed.

Can I use my old card with the wrong address on it?

Yes. Your old card remains valid for identification and driving until your new card arrives. Your address in the MVC system updates when ready (if you changed it online) or within a few days (if you mailed or visited in person), so police and other officials can see your correct address when they scan your license.

What if I moved out of state but still have a New Jersey license?

You can change your address to an out-of-state address online or by mail using the same process. However, New Jersey law requires you to get a license from your new state within a certain period. Check your new state's DMV website for their rules on when you must switch.

Do I need to change my address if I only moved temporarily?

If you are moving back within a few months, you do not have to change your address. However, if you are staying at the new location for more than 60 days, it is a good idea to update it so your license matches where you actually live. This prevents problems if you are stopped by police or need to prove your address for other reasons.

What if the MVC lost my form or I never got a confirmation?

Call the MVC at 609-292-6500 to check the status of your address change. Have your driver's license number ready. If your change was not processed, you can resubmit the form or visit an office in person. Keep copies of everything you mail to the MVC.