How to renew your New Jersey driver's license
You can renew your New Jersey driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have before it expires, and whether you need to update your photo or address. Most people renew online or by mail without visiting an office at all.
New Jersey licenses expire on your birthday, four years after you received them. You can begin the renewal process up to six months before your expiration date. If your license has already expired, you must renew in person at an MVC office.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the MVC website is the fastest option if your license is still valid and you do not need a new photo.
- Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks and works for valid licenses, but you cannot change your photo or address by mail.
- In-person renewal at an MVC office is required if your license has expired, you need a new photo, or you are changing your address.
- You will need your current license, proof of New Jersey residency, and payment (credit card, debit card, or check) to renew.
- Renewal fees are $24 for a four-year license if you renew online, or $29 if you renew in person or by mail.
Renewing online through the MVC website
Online renewal is the quickest and cheapest option. Go to the New Jersey MVC website and select "Renew Driver License Online." You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and date of birth. The system will verify your information and ask you to review your current license details.
If everything on your license is correct — your name, address, and date of birth — you can proceed to payment. Online renewal costs $24 and takes about one week. Your new license will arrive by mail. You cannot change your photo, address, or name through online renewal.
Online renewal is only available if your license is still valid. If your license expired more than six months ago, you cannot use this method.
Renewing by mail
Mail renewal works if your license is still valid and you do not need to update your photo or address. Request a renewal process from the MVC by calling 609-292-6500 or visiting an MVC office. Fill out the process, include your current license, and mail everything to the address provided on the form along with a check or money order for $29.
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the time the MVC receives your process. Your new license will arrive by mail. Like online renewal, you cannot change your address or request a new photo through the mail.
Renewing in person at an MVC office
Visit an MVC office if your license has expired, you need a new photo, or you want to change your address. Bring your current license (or an expired license if you no longer have the current one), proof of New Jersey residency, and payment. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days.
In-person renewal costs $29. You will have your photo taken at the office and receive a temporary license to use while your permanent license is printed and mailed. The permanent license usually arrives within two weeks. Some MVC offices are busier than others, so check wait times on the MVC website before you go.
You can schedule an appointment online through the MVC website to avoid waiting. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments typically move faster.
What documents you need for each renewal method
| Renewal Method | Current License Required | Proof of Residency Required | Can Change Address | Can Get New Photo | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | No (information only) | No | No | No | $24 |
| By Mail | Yes | No | No | No | $29 |
| In Person | Yes (or expired license) | Yes | Yes | Yes | $29 |
What to do if your license has already expired
If your license expired more than six months ago, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit an MVC office in person. Bring your expired license, proof of New Jersey residency, and payment of $29. You will have your photo taken and receive a temporary license on the spot.
If your license expired less than six months ago, you can still use online or mail renewal. The MVC considers a license valid for six months past its expiration date for renewal purposes only.
Changing your address during renewal
If you moved to a new address in New Jersey, you must renew in person at an MVC office to update your address on your license. Bring proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days. The MVC will not accept a post office box as proof of residency.
If you moved out of New Jersey, you cannot renew your New Jersey license. You must obtain a license from your new state instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license before the six-month window?
No. The MVC only accepts renewal applications starting six months before your expiration date. If you try to renew earlier, your process will be rejected. You can check your expiration date on the front of your license.
What if I lost my license and need to renew?
You cannot renew a lost license online or by mail. Visit an MVC office with proof of your identity and New Jersey residency. You will pay $29 for the renewal and have your photo taken. If you need a replacement before your renewal date, you can request a duplicate license at the same visit.
How long does it take to get my renewed license in the mail?
Online renewal takes about one week. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from when the MVC receives your process. In-person renewal usually takes two weeks for your permanent license to arrive, though you receive a temporary license to use when ready.
Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or fine?
Yes. The MVC does not check for outstanding tickets during renewal. However, you may not be able to register a vehicle or renew your vehicle registration if you have unpaid fines. Contact the court that issued the ticket for information about payment plans.
What if my name changed since I got my current license?
You must renew in person at an MVC office and bring a document showing your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You cannot change your name through online or mail renewal.