How to change your address in New Jersey
You can change your address on your New Jersey driver license or ID card through the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) without getting a new photo or retaking any tests. The MVC offers three ways to do it: online through their website, by mail, or in person at an MVC office. Online is the fastest option if your address change is within New Jersey; mail and in-person visits work for any address, including out-of-state moves.
You do not need to bring your current license to change your address online — the MVC will look it up using your name, date of birth, and license number. If you are moving out of state or prefer to handle it in person, bring your current license and one document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
Key Takeaways
- New Jersey lets you change your address online, by mail, or in person at an MVC office without paying a fee or getting a new photo.
- Online changes take a few minutes and work only if you are staying in New Jersey; the MVC processes them within one business day.
- Mail and in-person changes both require one document showing your new address, dated within the last 60 days.
- You must update your address within a reasonable time after moving; New Jersey law does not set a specific important date, but delaying can cause problems with traffic tickets and vehicle registration.
Changing your address online through the MVC website
The MVC's online address change tool is the quickest method if you are staying in New Jersey. Go to the MVC website, select "Change Address Online," and enter your license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will pull up your current information and let you enter your new address right away.
After you submit, the MVC processes the change within one business day. Your physical license card will not change — the address update happens in the MVC's system only. If you need a new card with your address printed on it, you would have to order a replacement license, which costs money and takes longer. For most purposes, the system update is enough: police, courts, and the MVC itself will see your new address when they look up your record.
The online tool does not work if you are moving out of New Jersey. In that case, use the mail or in-person method instead.
Changing your address by mail
To change your address by mail, fill out the MVC's Change of Address form (Form BA-49), include a copy of your current license, and mail both to the address listed on the form. You also need to include one document that shows your new address and is dated within the last 60 days — examples include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement.
Mail processing typically takes two to three weeks. Send your envelope by regular mail or certified mail if you want proof of delivery. The MVC will update your address in their system, and like the online method, your physical card will not change unless you order a replacement.
You can read Form BA-49 from the MVC website or call the MVC at 609-292-6500 to request it by mail. This method works for any address, including out-of-state moves.
Changing your address in person at an MVC office
Walk into any MVC office with your current license and one document showing your new address (dated within the last 60 days), and you can update your address on the spot. Bring the original document, not a copy — the MVC staff will verify it and return it to you. The change takes effect when ready in the MVC system.
MVC offices are open Monday through Friday, and some locations have Saturday hours. Wait times vary by location and time of day; visiting early in the morning or mid-week usually means shorter lines. You do not need an appointment for an address change. Find your nearest office and its hours on the MVC website.
What documents show your new address
The MVC accepts any of these documents as proof of your new address, as long as it is dated within the last 60 days:
- Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone)
- Lease agreement or rental contract
- Mortgage statement or property tax bill
- Bank or credit card statement
- Insurance policy (home, auto, or renter's)
- Government mail (tax return, voter registration, court document)
- Paycheck stub showing your address
The document must have your name and the new address printed on it. If you are moving and do not yet have a document in your name at the new address, a lease or rental agreement signed by you and your landlord is the easiest option to get quickly.
Timing and when you should update your address
New Jersey does not set a legal important date for changing your address on your license, but you should do it as soon as you move. Delays can cause real problems: if you get a traffic ticket or are involved in an accident, police will look up your license and may send notices to your old address. If you are pulled over and your address does not match where you actually live, an officer may question whether the license is still valid.
Updating your vehicle registration with the MVC is separate from updating your license address, though both should be done when you move. If you own a car, change your registration address at the same time you change your license address — you can do both in person at an MVC office in one visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay to change my address on my New Jersey license?
No. Changing your address is free whether you do it online, by mail, or in person. You only pay if you order a replacement license card with the new address printed on it, which costs $24.
Will I get a new license card with my new address on it?
No. When you change your address through any of these methods, only the MVC's computer system updates. Your physical card keeps the old address. If you want a card printed with your new address, you must order a replacement license through the MVC, which takes about two weeks and costs $24.
Can I change my address if I moved out of state?
Yes, but you cannot use the online method. Mail your request with Form BA-49 and an address verification document to the MVC, or visit an MVC office in person if you are still in New Jersey. If you have moved permanently out of state, you may eventually need to get a license from your new state instead.
What if I do not have a document dated within the last 60 days?
Contact the MVC at 609-292-6500 to ask about alternatives. In some cases, you can bring a lease or rental agreement even if it is older, or combine multiple documents to prove your address. The MVC staff can tell you what they will accept for your situation.
How long does it take to change my address online?
The change is processed within one business day. You do not need to do anything else — the MVC updates their system automatically, and your address change is complete.