How to change your address on a New Jersey driver's license

You can change your address on your New Jersey driver's license without getting a new license card. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) lets you update your address online, by mail, or in person at an MVC office. The online method is fastest — you can do it from home in about 10 minutes if you have your current license number and a valid email address. If you prefer not to use the online system, you can mail a form or visit an office, though both take longer.

Your address change takes effect when ready when you complete it online. If you mail the form or update in person, the MVC processes it within a few business days. You do not need to pay a fee to change your address, and you keep your current license card — the address on file updates in the system, even though the card itself still shows your old address until you renew your license.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change at nj.gov/mvc takes about 10 minutes and is the fastest option available.
  • You can also mail Form BA-298 to the MVC or visit an office in person, though both methods take several business days.
  • Changing your address is free and does not require you to get a new license card.
  • Your address updates in the MVC system right away (online) or within a few business days (mail or in-person), even though your physical card keeps the old address until renewal.

Changing your address online

Go to nj.gov/mvc and look for the "Services" section. Select "Change Address" or "Update Address" — the exact wording changes occasionally, but it is clearly labeled. You will need your current New Jersey driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will ask you to enter your new address and confirm your email address.

After you submit, the MVC sends a confirmation email to the address you provided. Check your email (including spam folders) within a few minutes. The address change is live in the system as soon as you complete the online form, so you do not need to wait for the confirmation email. However, keeping that email as proof is a good idea in case you need to show the MVC that you updated your information on a specific date.

Changing your address by mail

read or request Form BA-298 from the MVC website or call the MVC at 609-292-6500. Fill out the form with your current license number, your new address, and sign it. Mail the form to the address listed on the form — currently the MVC's mail processing center in Trenton, though you should verify the current address on the form itself since mail centers sometimes change.

Include a copy of a document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The MVC needs this to confirm you actually live at the new address. Mail processing typically takes 5 to 10 business days. You do not need to include payment — address changes are free.

Changing your address in person at an MVC office

Visit any New Jersey MVC office with your current driver's license and a document showing your new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or recent bank statement). Tell the staff member you want to change your address. They will update it in the system while you wait, and the change takes effect when ready.

MVC offices are located throughout New Jersey. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on nj.gov/mvc. Some offices require you to make an appointment online before you visit, while others accept walk-ins. Check the specific office's page before you go, since policies vary by location. Bring your current license and your address proof document to avoid a wasted trip.

What happens to your physical license card

Your driver's license card itself does not change when you update your address. The card will still show your old address until you renew your license. However, the address in the MVC's system updates right away (if you change it online or in person) or within a few business days (if you mail the form). When police, banks, or other organizations check your license, they see the updated address in the system, not the address printed on the card.

When your license comes up for renewal — typically every 10 years for adults — you will receive a new card with your current address printed on it. Until then, the mismatch between your card and the system is normal and does not cause problems. If you need a new card sooner for some reason, you can request a replacement card, but that is a separate process and does cost a fee.

Timing and what to expect

Online changes are when ready. In-person changes at an MVC office also happen when ready. Mail-in changes take 5 to 10 business days, sometimes longer if the MVC is processing a high volume of mail. If you are moving soon and need your address updated quickly, the online method or an in-person visit is your best option.

You do not need to do anything else after you change your address. The MVC does not send you a confirmation letter in the mail, though you will receive a confirmation email if you change your address online. If you change it by mail or in person and want proof, you can print or save the confirmation email, or you can call the MVC at 609-292-6500 to confirm the change went through.

Changing your address if your license is expired or suspended

You can still change your address even if your license is expired or suspended. Use the same methods — online, by mail, or in person. However, if your license is suspended, you should contact the MVC directly at 609-292-6500 before you change your address, because there may be other steps you need to take to restore your driving privileges. Changing your address alone does not lift a suspension.

If your license is expired, you can change your address and then renew your license at the same time, or change your address now and renew later. There is no penalty for changing your address while your license is expired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my address on my car registration too?

Yes, but it is a separate process. You must update your address with the MVC for your vehicle registration as well as your driver's license. You can do this online at nj.gov/mvc, by mail, or in person. The address change for your registration does not happen automatically when you change your driver's license address.

What if I move to another state?

You will need to get a driver's license from your new state instead of just changing your address in New Jersey. Each state issues its own license. You can usually keep your New Jersey license until it expires, but you cannot legally drive in another state on a New Jersey license if you now live there. Check your new state's DMV website for their requirements.

Can I change my address if I do not have my license number?

The online system requires your license number. If you do not have it, you can change your address by mail or in person instead. For the mail option, include your name, date of birth, and new address on Form BA-298, along with your address proof document. In person, bring your license (or ID) and address proof to any MVC office.

How long does the MVC keep my old address on file?

Once you change your address, the old address is replaced in the system. The MVC does not keep a record of your previous addresses unless you request it for a specific reason. If you need documentation of when you lived at a previous address, contact the MVC directly.

Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance?

Changing your address does not affect your driving record. Your insurance company may need to know about your move, but that is a separate matter between you and your insurer — the MVC does not share address changes with insurance companies automatically. Contact your insurance agent to update your policy address.