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 getting a new card, as long as you are not moving out of state. The fastest way is online through the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) website if your license is not expired and you have not changed your name. If your license is expired, you have changed your name, or you prefer to do it in person, you can visit an MVC office or mail in a form. The process takes a few minutes online or about 10 business days by mail.

You do not need to pay a fee to change your address. The new address will be printed on your license the next time you renew it, but your current card remains valid with the old address on it until then.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method through the MVC website is the fastest option if your license is current and you have not changed your name.
  • You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and date of birth to change your address online.
  • If you go to an MVC office in person, bring your current license, proof of your new address, and a form of ID.
  • Mailing in a form takes about 10 business days and requires a completed Address Change Form and proof of your new address.
  • Your old license remains valid with the old address printed on it; the new address appears on your next renewal card.

Changing your address online through the MVC website

Go to nj.gov/mvc and look for the "Address Change" option in the online services section. You will need your current driver's license number, your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and ask you to enter your new address.

This method works only if your license has not expired and you have not changed your name. If either of those is true, you will need to use the in-person or mail method instead. The online change takes effect when ready, and you will receive a confirmation email.

Visiting an MVC office to change your address in person

You can walk into any Motor Vehicle Commission office without an appointment and request an address change. Bring your current driver's license, a document that shows your new address (such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and one form of ID if your license has expired.

The staff will update your record on the spot. Your old license card stays valid, and the new address will print on your next renewal. If you need to renew your license at the same time, you can do that in one visit, though it will take longer and may require a new photo.

MVC offices are open Monday through Friday, with some locations open on Saturday mornings. You can find your nearest office and its hours on the MVC website.

Mailing in an address change form

read the Address Change Form from the MVC website or pick one up at any MVC office. Fill in your name, driver's license number, and new address. Include a document that proves your new address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Do not send your actual license card.

Mail the form and proof of address to the Motor Vehicle Commission, P.O. Box 403, Trenton, NJ 08625. Processing takes about 10 business days. You will not receive a confirmation in the mail; your record is straightforward updated in the system. If you want to confirm the change went through, you can call the MVC at 609-292-6500 after two weeks.

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. These include utility bills (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, insurance policies, or bank statements. A letter from your landlord or a recent piece of mail from a government agency also works.

If you just moved and do not yet have a document in your name at the new address, you can use a lease agreement or a letter from your landlord that includes both your name and the new address. Some people use a utility bill in a roommate's name if their name is not on it yet, though the MVC prefers documents in your own name.

When you need to renew your license instead of just changing your address

If your license has expired, you cannot use the online address change method. You must either visit an MVC office or mail in a renewal process along with your address change. Renewal requires a new photo and costs a fee based on how long your license is valid for (typically $24 for a four-year license or $48 for a ten-year license).

If you have also changed your name, you will need to renew your license and bring a document that proves the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You cannot change your name through the address-change-only process.

What happens if you move out of state

If you are moving to another state, you cannot straightforward change the address on your New Jersey license. You will need to get a driver's license in your new state. Most states require you to do this within 30 to 60 days of moving, though the exact important date varies. You can keep your New Jersey license until it expires, but it will no longer be valid as proof of residency in your new state.

Check your new state's motor vehicle department website to learn what documents you need to bring and whether you can transfer your license or if you must take a new test.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your current license card remains valid even though the address on it is outdated. The new address will be printed on your card when you renew your license at the end of its validity period. Until then, your old card with the old address is still acceptable as identification.

How long does it take to change my address online?

The online change takes effect when ready. You will receive a confirmation email right away. Your record in the MVC system is updated at that moment, even though your physical card still shows the old address.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

No, not through the online method. If your license is expired, you must visit an MVC office in person or mail in a renewal process. You cannot use the address-change-only process for an expired license.

What if I do not have a document that proves my new address?

A lease agreement or a signed letter from your landlord that includes your name and new address will work. If you just moved and have no documents yet, ask your landlord or property manager for a letter. A utility bill in a roommate's name is less ideal but may be accepted if you have nothing else.

Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance?

Changing your address with the MVC does not affect your driving record. Your insurance company may need to know about your move separately, so contact them directly to update your policy address. Some insurers adjust rates based on location, so notify them as soon as you move.