Where to change your address in New Jersey
You can change your address with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) in three ways: online through their website, by mail, or in person at an MVC office. The online method is fastest — you can update your address in minutes without leaving home, and your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you prefer to go in person, you can walk into any MVC office with your current license and proof of your new address, and staff will process the change on the spot.
Mail-in changes take longer, usually 2 to 3 weeks from the time the MVC receives your form, because the process has to be processed at a central location. Most people choose online or in-person because they are faster and you know when ready whether your request went through.
Key Takeaways
- New Jersey lets you change your address online, by mail, or in person at an MVC office, with online being the fastest option at 7 to 10 business days.
- You will need proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
- If you change your address online, you do not need to visit an office or mail anything — the MVC mails your updated license to your new address.
- Your current driver license remains valid during the address change process, so you can still use it for identification.
- If you move out of state or your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot change your address online and must visit an MVC office in person.
Changing your address online through the MVC website
Go to the New Jersey MVC website and log into your account using your driver license number and date of birth. You will be asked to enter your new address and confirm it. The system will then ask you to upload or provide proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work, as long as the document is dated within the last 60 days and shows your name and new address.
Once you submit the form and your proof, the MVC will review it and mail your updated license to your new address. You do not need to pay a fee for an address change. Your current license stays valid while you wait for the new one, so you can use it for ID purposes right away.
If the MVC needs more information or finds a problem with your submission, they will contact you by email or phone. Check your email regularly during the processing period in case they reach out.
What documents count as proof of your new address
The MVC accepts several types of documents to verify your new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name dated within 60 days is the most common choice. A lease agreement or mortgage statement with your name and new address also works. Bank statements, credit card statements, and insurance documents are acceptable too, as long as they show your name, your new address, and a date within the last 60 days.
Documents older than 60 days will be rejected. If you just moved and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name at the new address, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on official letterhead confirming your move-in date and address. Some people use a signed lease with a move-in date as their proof while waiting for the first utility bill to arrive.
Changing your address in person at an MVC office
Bring your current driver license and proof of your new address to any MVC office. You do not need an appointment for an address change — you can walk in during business hours. Staff will verify your information, update your address in the system, and issue you a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid for 30 days. Your permanent license with the new address will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.
The in-person method is useful if you want confirmation when ready or if you cannot change your address online for some reason. There is no fee. Bring your proof of address in original form — photocopies are usually not accepted, though some offices may make exceptions if you explain your situation.
Changing your address by mail
Request the address change form from the MVC website or call them at 609-292-6500 to have one mailed to you. Fill out the form with your current license number, your new address, and your signature. Attach a copy of your proof of address and mail everything to the address listed on the form.
The MVC will process your request and mail your updated license to your new address. This method takes 2 to 3 weeks from the time they receive your envelope, plus mail delivery time on both ends. There is no fee. Keep a copy of what you mail in case the MVC needs to contact you about it.
When you cannot change your address online
If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot change your address through the online system. You must visit an MVC office in person. The same applies if you have moved out of state — New Jersey can only mail your updated license to a New Jersey address, so if you are now living elsewhere, you will need to handle the address change differently or consider getting a license in your new state.
If your license is suspended or revoked, bring proof of your new address and your current license to an MVC office. Staff will update your address but cannot issue you a new license until your suspension or revocation is cleared. Once that is resolved, you can request your updated license by mail or online.
How long the address change takes
| Method | Processing Time | When You Get Your New License |
|---|---|---|
| Online | when ready submission | 7 to 10 business days by mail |
| In person at MVC office | Same day | Temporary license when ready; permanent license in 7 to 10 business days |
| By mail | 2 to 3 weeks after MVC receives it | 7 to 10 business days after processing |
Your current license remains valid during the entire process, so you can use it for identification at work, when driving, or at banks and stores. You do not need to wait for your new license to arrive before using your ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change my address if I move within New Jersey?
Yes. New Jersey law requires you to notify the MVC of any address change within a reasonable time after you move. While there is no specific important date stated in the law, it is best to update your address within 30 days to avoid problems if you are stopped by police or need to renew your license.
What if I do not have a utility bill or lease yet at my new address?
Ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on official letterhead confirming your move-in date and address. Some people also use a signed lease agreement as proof. If neither is available, contact the MVC to ask what alternative documents they will accept in your situation.
Can I use a PO box as my address on my driver license?
No. New Jersey requires a residential street address on your driver license. A PO box cannot be used as your primary address. If you do not have a permanent residential address, contact an MVC office to discuss your options.
Will my license number change when I update my address?
No. Your license number stays the same. Only your address changes on the new license. Your license number is tied to your identity in the MVC system and does not change for address updates.
What if the MVC mails my new license to the wrong address by mistake?
Contact the MVC when ready at 609-292-6500 or through their website to report the error. They can issue a replacement license and mail it to the correct address. There may be a fee for a replacement, so it is important to double-check your address before submitting your change request.