How to change your address with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
You can change your address with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) online, by mail, or in person at a local MVC office. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You will need your driver's license or ID card number, your Social Security number, and a valid email address. The MVC will mail your updated license or ID to your new address within 7 to 10 business days.
If you do not have internet access or prefer to handle it in person, you can visit any MVC office with your current license or ID and proof of your new address. By mail, you send a completed form with copies of your documents to the MVC's address processing center — this method takes 3 to 4 weeks.
Key Takeaways
- The online method through the MVC website is the fastest option and requires only your license number, Social Security number, and email address.
- You do not need to renew your license or ID to change your address — the MVC will send you an updated card with the same expiration date.
- Proof of your new address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
- If you change your address but do not update it with the MVC, your license remains valid but mail from the state will go to your old address.
Changing your address online through the MVC website
Go to nj.gov/mvc and look for the "Change of Address" option under the "Online Services" section. You will be asked to log in or create an account using your driver's license or ID number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Once logged in, select "Change Address" and enter your new street address, city, state, and ZIP code.
Review the information for accuracy before submitting. The MVC will send a confirmation email to the address you provide. Your updated license or ID card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to pay a fee for an address change — the new card is issued at no cost.
If you encounter an error during the online process or your account will not open, you can call the MVC Customer Service Center at 609-292-6500. They can help troubleshoot login problems or direct you to an in-person office.
Changing your address in person at an MVC office
Bring your current driver's license or ID card and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government-issued mail dated within the last 60 days. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day.
Tell the representative at the counter that you need to change your address. They will verify your identity, confirm your new address, and process the change on the spot. There is no fee. Your updated card will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days.
To find the MVC office nearest you, visit nj.gov/mvc and use the office locator tool. Some offices are busier than others — early morning or midweek visits typically mean shorter waits.
Changing your address by mail
read or request the Change of Address form (Form BA-49) from the MVC website or call 609-292-6500 to have one mailed to you. Fill out the form completely with your current license or ID number, your new address, and your signature. Include a photocopy of your current license or ID card and a photocopy of one document showing your new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 60 days).
Mail the completed form and copies to:
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Address Change Processing P.O. Box 403 Trenton, NJ 08625
Processing by mail takes 3 to 4 weeks from the date the MVC receives your form. There is no fee. Your updated card will be sent to your new address. Keep a copy of everything you mail for your records.
What happens if you move but do not update your address
Your driver's license or ID card remains valid even if you do not change your address with the MVC. However, any mail from the state — including renewal notices, violation notices, or registration documents — will continue to go to your old address. This can cause you to miss important important date or not receive notices you need.
If you are pulled over by law enforcement, your license is still legal to use, but the address on it will not match your current residence. This is not a violation, but it may prompt questions. For vehicle registration and insurance purposes, your address on file with the MVC should match what your insurance company has on record to avoid coverage disputes.
Updating your vehicle registration address at the same time
Changing your driver's license address does not automatically change your vehicle registration address. If you own a vehicle, you will need to update that separately. You can do this online through the MVC website, by mail, or in person at an MVC office using similar methods.
When you change your vehicle registration address online, go to nj.gov/mvc and select "Vehicle Services." You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) and registration number. The fee for a registration address change is typically $5 to $10, depending on the type of registration. Some address changes are processed at no cost if done within a certain timeframe of your driver's license change.
If you are unsure whether your registration address matches your license address, call the MVC at 609-292-6500 and provide your license number and vehicle plate number. They can tell you what address is currently on file for both documents.
Documents that prove 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, bank or credit card statements, insurance policies, and government-issued mail such as tax documents or Social Security statements.
The document must be an original or clear photocopy — a photo of a document taken on your phone is usually not accepted. If the document shows a different name than your license (for example, if you recently married and changed your name), bring additional documentation showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
If you cannot obtain a document dated within 60 days, call the MVC at 609-292-6500 to ask about alternative proof options. Some offices may accept a notarized statement of residence or a letter from a landlord or property manager in unusual circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to renew my license to change my address?
No. An address change is separate from a license renewal. The MVC will send you an updated card with your new address but the same expiration date as your current license. You only renew your license when it is about to expire or when the MVC requires it.
How long does it take to receive my updated card in the mail?
The MVC typically mails updated cards within 7 to 10 business days after processing your change. Mail delivery time varies by location, so allow an additional 3 to 5 business days for the card to arrive. If you do not receive it within 3 weeks, call 609-292-6500 to check the status.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
Yes. You can change your address even if your license status is suspended or revoked. The address change itself does not affect your license status. However, if your license is suspended, you cannot legally drive until the suspension is lifted, regardless of whether your address is current.
What if I moved out of state — do I still need to update my New Jersey address?
If you have moved permanently out of state, you should obtain a driver's license in your new state rather than keeping a New Jersey license. However, if you still own property in New Jersey or plan to return, you can update your address with the MVC to your out-of-state address. The process is the same — use the online method, mail, or visit an office if you are back in the state.
Is there a fee to change my address?
No. Changing your address with the MVC is free. You do not pay for the updated card or the processing. If someone charges you a fee to change your address, you are not dealing with the official MVC.