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

New Jersey allows you to update your driver's license address through three routes: the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) website, by mail with a form, or by visiting an MVC office in person. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. Mail takes 7 to 10 business days after the MVC receives your form. In-person visits are when ready but require a trip to a licensing center.

You do not need to renew your license to change your address. The address change is a separate transaction, and your current license remains valid. New Jersey will mail you a document confirming the change, but you do not receive a new physical card unless you also renew your license or replace it.

Key Takeaways

  • The MVC online portal is the fastest method and requires only your license number, last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address.
  • If you change your address by mail, use form BA-44 (Address Change process), include a copy of your license, and mail it to the MVC address on the form.
  • In-person address changes at any MVC office take about 15 minutes and require your current license and proof of your new address.
  • You will receive written confirmation of your address change in the mail, which serves as proof until your license is renewed or replaced.
  • Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days if you change your address in person.

Changing your address online through the MVC website

Visit the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission website and select "Change Address" under the driver's license section. You will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new street address. The system will ask you to confirm your identity by answering security questions based on your driving record.

Once you submit the form, you receive an on-screen confirmation. The MVC processes online requests within 24 to 48 hours and mails you a written confirmation to your new address. There is no fee for this transaction. This method works only if your license is not suspended, revoked, or expired by more than two years.

Mailing a form to the MVC

read or request form BA-44 (Address Change process) from the MVC website or any MVC office. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Include a copy of your driver's license (front and back) and mail everything to the address listed on the form — typically the MVC's central processing office in Trenton.

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 the MVC needs to contact you. If you do not receive confirmation within two weeks, call the MVC at 609-292-6500 to check the status.

Changing your address in person at an MVC office

Visit any New Jersey MVC licensing center with your current driver's license and one document proving your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or property tax bill dated within the last 60 days. You do not need an appointment for an address change, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

The transaction takes about 15 minutes. You will pay no fee. The MVC staff member will update your record on the spot and give you a receipt. You will receive written confirmation in the mail within 5 to 7 business days. If you need your address changed when ready for a specific reason — such as a court appearance or insurance requirement — ask the staff member whether they can issue a temporary address confirmation letter.

What happens if you move before your license is renewed

Your license remains valid at your old address until it expires. However, the MVC will mail renewal notices and any official correspondence to the address on file. If you do not update your address, you may miss renewal reminders or important notices. Changing your address does not affect your license's expiration date.

If you move out of state, you will eventually need to obtain a driver's license from your new state. New Jersey does not require you to formally surrender your license, but you should update your address or let it expire naturally. Some states require proof that you no longer hold a license from another state, so check your new state's requirements.

Address changes for commercial driver's licenses (CDL)

If you hold a commercial driver's license, the address change process is the same: online, by mail, or in person. You use the same form BA-44 and the same MVC offices. There is no additional fee or documentation required beyond what a standard license holder needs.

However, if your CDL is suspended or revoked, you cannot change your address online — you must do so by mail or in person. Contact the MVC directly if you are unsure of your CDL status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get a new physical license card when I change my address?

No. You receive a written confirmation in the mail, but your current license card remains valid. You only receive a new card if you renew your license or request a replacement. The address change itself does not trigger a new card.

What if I move and do not update my address before getting pulled over?

Your license is still valid. However, the address on your license will not match your current residence. You can show the officer the written confirmation you received from the MVC, or explain that you recently moved. This is not a violation, but it is best to update your address promptly to avoid confusion.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

If your license expired fewer than two years ago, you can change your address online or by mail. If it expired more than two years ago, you must renew your license instead of straightforward changing the address. Contact the MVC or visit their website to determine your license status.

How long does it take to receive confirmation of my address change?

Online changes are processed within 24 to 48 hours, and you receive written confirmation in the mail within 5 to 7 business days. Mail submissions take 7 to 10 business days after the MVC receives your form. In-person changes are when ready, with written confirmation arriving within 5 to 7 days.

What if the MVC sends my confirmation to my old address by mistake?

Call the MVC at 609-292-6500 and provide your license number and new address. They can verify the change was processed and remail the confirmation to your correct address, or you can request a duplicate confirmation letter.