Where to change your address on your New Jersey driver's license
You can change your address with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) in three ways: online through the MVC website, by mail, or in person at an MVC office. The online method is fastest — you can update your address without leaving home, and the change takes effect when ready. If you prefer to go in person or mail your request, both options are available, though they take longer to process.
The MVC does not charge a fee to change your address. You do not need to renew your license or get a new card; your current license remains valid with the updated address on file in the state system.
Key Takeaways
- Online address changes through the MVC website are the fastest option and take effect right away, with no fee required.
- You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and new address to complete any address change method.
- If you change your address by mail or in person, allow 7 to 10 business days for the MVC to process the change.
- Your physical license card does not change when you update your address — only your record in the MVC system is updated.
Changing your address online through the MVC website
Visit the New Jersey MVC website and look for the "Change Address" option under the online services section. You will need to enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The system will verify your identity using this information.
Once you submit the form, the address change is processed when ready. You will receive a confirmation on screen. Your new address will appear in the MVC system right away, though it may take a day or two to show up in other state databases that pull from the MVC records.
This method works only if your license is valid and not suspended. If your license is expired or suspended, you will need to use the mail or in-person method instead.
Changing your address by mail
Print the address change form from the MVC website (form BA-49, the "Address Change" form) or request one by calling the MVC at 609-292-6500. Fill in your current license number, new address, and sign the form. Do not send your physical license card — the MVC does not need it.
Mail the completed form to the address listed on the form itself, which is typically the MVC's central processing office in Trenton. Include a copy of a document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The MVC uses this to verify you actually live at the new address.
Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after the MVC receives your form. You can check the status of your request by calling 609-292-6500 or visiting an MVC office in person.
Changing your address in person at an MVC office
Visit any MVC office with your driver's license and a document showing your new address (utility bill, lease, bank statement, or similar, dated within 60 days). You do not need an appointment for an address change, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Check the MVC website for office hours and locations near you.
Bring your license and your address proof document. The MVC staff will update your address on the spot. Your new address takes effect when ready in the MVC system, though your physical license card will still show your old address until you renew it.
If you cannot find a document dated within 60 days, ask the MVC staff what other proof they will accept. Some offices may take a signed lease or a recent piece of mail from a government agency.
What documents you need for each method
| Method | Documents Needed | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Driver's license number, last four digits of Social Security number | when ready |
| By mail | Completed form BA-49, driver's license number, address proof document dated within 60 days | 7 to 10 business days |
| In person | Driver's license, address proof document dated within 60 days | Same day |
What counts as proof of your new address
The MVC accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a government letter all work. The document must have your full name and the address you are changing to.
If you do not have a document dated within 60 days, call the MVC at 609-292-6500 before you go in person or mail your form. Staff can tell you what other documents they will accept in your situation, such as a signed lease without a date or a letter from your landlord.
What happens after you change your address
Your address change takes effect in the MVC system right away (if you did it online or in person) or within 7 to 10 business days (if you mailed the form). Your physical license card will still show your old address until you renew your license. New Jersey does not issue a new card just for an address change.
Your new address will be used for any future license renewal, vehicle registration, or other MVC correspondence. If you receive a ticket or are stopped by police, they will see your new address in their system even though your card shows the old one. This does not cause a problem — law enforcement systems pull from the current MVC database.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change my address on my vehicle registration too?
Yes, but it is a separate process. Changing your driver's license address does not automatically update your vehicle registration. You will need to notify the MVC about your vehicle registration address separately, either online, by mail, or in person. The MVC website has a form for registration address changes as well.
What if I moved out of state?
If you no longer live in New Jersey, you should not update your address with the New Jersey MVC. Instead, you will need to get a driver's license from your new state. Keep your New Jersey license until your new state issues you one. Once you have the new license, you can let your New Jersey license expire or formally surrender it if your new state requires it.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or expired?
If your license is suspended, you cannot use the online method. You can still change your address by mail or in person at an MVC office. If your license is expired, the online system may not work either — call 609-292-6500 to confirm before you try, or use the mail or in-person method instead.
How long does an address change take to show up in police databases?
If you change your address online or in person, it shows up in law enforcement systems within a few hours to a day. If you mail the form, allow 7 to 10 business days for the MVC to process it, plus another day or two for the change to reach police databases. During that window, an officer who runs your license may still see your old address.
Will I get a new license card with my new address on it?
No. An address change does not trigger a new card. Your physical license will continue to show your old address until you renew your license for other reasons (expiration, name change, etc.). When you do renew, your new card will have your current address on it.