You can change your address on your New Jersey driver's license in person at an MVC office, by mail, or online through the MVC website — the method depends on whether you need a new card printed
New Jersey offers three routes to update your address on file. The fastest is the online method through the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) website, which updates your record when ready but does not issue a new physical card with your new address printed on it. If you want the address printed on the card itself, you must visit an MVC office in person or mail in a form with payment. The in-person visit takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on wait times; the mail route takes two to three weeks.
Your choice depends on whether you need the new address visible on the card. If you are changing your address for mail delivery or record-keeping purposes only, the online update is sufficient and free. If you plan to use your license as proof of residence — for opening a bank account, renting an apartment, or similar purposes — you will want the new address printed on the card itself, which requires either an in-person visit or mailing in your request.
Key Takeaways
- Online address updates through the MVC website change your record when ready and cost nothing, but do not print a new card with your updated address.
- To get a new card with your address printed on it, you must visit an MVC office in person or mail Form BA-298 with a $5 fee and your current license.
- In-person visits at MVC offices typically take 30 to 45 minutes and do not require an appointment in most locations, though you can reserve a time slot online.
- Mail-in requests take two to three weeks and require you to send your current license to the MVC, which will return it with the new address printed.
- You must have proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
Updating your address online through the MVC website
The MVC website at nj.gov/mvc allows you to change your address without visiting an office or paying a fee. Log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, then follow the prompts to enter your new address. The system will confirm the change when ready, and your record will be updated in the MVC database.
This method is useful if you have moved and want your mail to go to the correct address, or if you need your record updated for internal purposes. However, your physical driver's license card will still show your old address. If someone asks to see your license as proof of residence, the old address on the card may cause confusion or be rejected by banks, landlords, or other organizations that require current address verification.
You do not need to bring anything to update online — just your license number and date of birth. The change takes effect when ready, though it may take a few days for the updated address to appear in all MVC systems.
Getting a new card with your address printed at an MVC office
To receive a new physical card with your updated address printed on it, visit any Motor Vehicle Commission office in person. Bring your current driver's license, proof of your new address (such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and $5 in cash or card payment. You do not need an appointment at most locations, though you can reserve a time slot through the MVC website to reduce wait time.
The staff will take your current license, process the new card, and issue it to you on the spot. The entire visit usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how busy the office is. Your new license will have your updated address printed on the front, and you can use it when ready as proof of residence.
If you prefer to reserve a time slot rather than walk in, visit nj.gov/mvc and select "Make an Appointment." Choose your nearest office, pick a date and time, and arrive within 15 minutes of your slot. Walk-ins are still accepted, but appointment holders are served first.
Mailing in a request for a new card with your updated address
If you cannot visit an MVC office, you can request a new card by mail. read or print Form BA-298 (Address Change) from the MVC website, fill it out completely, and mail it along with your current driver's license and a $5 check or money order to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of your proof of address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
The MVC will process your request and mail your new license back to you within two to three weeks. Your old license will be returned as well, so you will have both cards temporarily. Once you receive the new card, destroy the old one or keep it for your records — you do not need to return it a second time.
This method is slower than in-person service but works if you live far from an MVC office or cannot take time off work. Make sure your mailing address is correct on the form, or your new card may be sent to the wrong place. If you do not receive your card within four weeks, contact the MVC to check the status of your request.
What proof of address the MVC will accept
The MVC requires one document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease agreement or rental contract, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a bank or credit card statement, or a government-issued document such as a tax return or benefits letter. The document must be an original or certified copy — photocopies are not accepted.
If your name does not appear on the document (for example, if you are living with a family member and the utility bill is in their name), you can bring a signed letter from the person whose name is on the bill, along with the bill itself, to establish your residency. Some MVC offices may also accept a notarized affidavit of residency if you cannot obtain a standard proof-of-address document.
Timing and what to expect at each step
| Method | Time to Complete | Cost | New Card Printed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online update | when ready | Free | No | Record update only; no proof of residence needed |
| In-person at MVC office | 30–45 minutes | $5 | Yes | Need new card when ready; can visit office |
| Mail-in request | 2–3 weeks | $5 | Yes | Cannot visit office; willing to wait |
If you choose the in-person route, arrive during off-peak hours (typically mid-morning on weekdays) to minimize wait time. Bring all required documents in one trip — if you forget your proof of address, you will have to return another day. If you are mailing in your request, send it via certified mail so you have proof of delivery and can track when the MVC receives it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to renew my license to change my address?
No. An address change is separate from license renewal. You can update your address at any time, regardless of when your license expires. If your license is expiring soon, you can renew and change your address in the same visit or process, which may save you a trip.
What if I moved out of state — can I still update my NJ address?
If you have moved out of New Jersey, you should obtain a driver's license from your new state instead of updating your NJ address. However, if you are temporarily out of state and still maintain a New Jersey residence, you can update your address by mail or online. Contact the MVC if you are unsure whether your situation qualifies.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
You can update your address online or by mail even if your license is suspended or revoked. However, you cannot visit an MVC office in person to get a new card printed until your suspension or revocation is lifted. Use the online method or mail-in option to keep your record current.
How long does the online address update take to show up everywhere?
The online update changes your record in the MVC system when ready, but it may take a few days to appear in all connected systems, such as insurance company databases or law enforcement records. If you need proof of your new address right away, visit an MVC office in person to get a new card printed.
What happens if I move again before my new card arrives?
If you submitted a mail-in request and moved again before receiving your new card, contact the MVC with your updated address so they can send the card to the correct location. You can also update your address online when ready and wait for the mailed card to arrive at your new address, then update again if needed.