Where to change your address with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) handles address changes for driver's licenses and vehicle registrations. You can update your address in three ways: online through the MVC website, by mail, or in person at an MVC office. The online method is fastest and requires no trip or paperwork — you can complete it in minutes from home.
If you choose to visit an office, the MVC operates regional locations across the state. You can find the office nearest you, check hours, and see current wait times on the official MVC website at nj.gov/mvc. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can also schedule an appointment online to reduce your wait time.
Mail-in changes take longer — typically two to three weeks — because your documents must be processed manually. This option works if you cannot get online or reach an office, but it is the slowest route.
Key Takeaways
- The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission processes address changes online, by mail, or at physical offices throughout the state.
- Online address changes are free and take only a few minutes; you will receive confirmation when ready and your new license will arrive by mail.
- You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and new address to change your information online.
- If you visit an MVC office in person, bring your current license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
- Address changes do not cost money, but if you want a new physical license card with your updated address printed on it, you may pay a replacement fee.
Changing your address online through the MVC website
The online method is the fastest and most convenient option. Go to nj.gov/mvc and look for the "Change of Address" option in the services menu. You will need your current driver's license number, your Social Security number, and your new address. The system will verify your identity using these details.
Once you submit the change online, the MVC updates your record when ready. You will receive a confirmation number on screen and by email. Your current license remains valid at your old address — the MVC does not invalidate it. If you want a new physical license card printed with your updated address, you can request one during the online process, though this may involve a small fee.
Your updated information appears in the MVC system right away, so if you are stopped by police or need to provide your address for any reason, the new address is on file. A replacement license card with the new address will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.
Changing your address by mail
To change your address by mail, read the Change of Address form from the MVC website or request one by phone at 609-292-6500. Fill out the form completely, including your current license number, old address, and new address. Sign and date the form.
Mail the completed form to the address listed on the MVC website — this varies by region, so check nj.gov/mvc for the correct mailing address for your area. Include a copy of proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement. The document must show your name and new address and be dated within the last 60 days.
Processing by mail takes two to three weeks. You will not receive a confirmation call or email; the MVC will straightforward update your record and send you a new license card if you requested one. If you need to confirm the change was received, you can call the MVC after two weeks.
Changing your address in person at an MVC office
Walk into any MVC office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail showing your name and new address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.
Tell the staff member you need to change your address. They will update your record on the spot, and your information changes when ready. If you want a replacement license card with your new address printed on it, let them know — some offices can print it while you wait, though this may take 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is. Other offices will mail it to you.
You can check wait times and schedule an appointment on the MVC website before you go. Appointments typically reduce your wait time significantly, especially during busy hours.
What documents you need for an in-person visit
Bring your current New Jersey driver's license and one document proving your new address. The proof document must show your full name and new street address and be dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include:
- Utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet)
- Lease agreement or rental contract
- Mortgage statement or property tax bill
- Bank or credit card statement
- Government mail (tax notice, voter registration, court document)
- Insurance policy (auto, home, or renters)
If your name on the proof document does not match your license exactly — for example, if you recently married or changed your name — bring additional documents showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. The MVC staff can tell you what they need when you arrive.
Whether you get a new license card and what it costs
Your address change takes effect when ready in the MVC system, regardless of whether you get a new physical card. Your current license remains valid and legal to use, even though it shows your old address.
If you want a new license card printed with your updated address, you can request one. The cost varies: some address changes include a free replacement card, while others charge a small fee (typically under $10). When you change your address online, the system will tell you whether a replacement card is free or what the fee is before you confirm. At an office, ask the staff member about the cost before you request the card.
If you do not request a replacement card, your old license with the old address remains valid for identification and driving purposes. You do not have to get a new card unless you want one.
How long the address change takes
Online changes are when ready — your record updates when ready and you receive a confirmation number on screen. If you requested a replacement license card, it arrives by mail in one to two weeks.
In-person changes also update when ready. If the office prints your new card while you wait, you can leave with it the same day. If they mail it, it arrives within one to two weeks.
Mail-in changes take the longest. After you mail the form and proof document, allow two to three weeks for processing. You will not receive a confirmation call, so if you need to verify the change went through, call the MVC after two weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address if I move?
New Jersey law requires you to notify the MVC of a new address within a certain timeframe after you move. Driving with an outdated address on file can result in fines or other penalties. The sooner you update it, the better.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
Yes. An expired license can still be used to change your address. However, if your license is expired, you may want to renew it at the same time. Ask the MVC staff or check the website about combining both transactions.
What if I moved out of state but still have a New Jersey license?
You can update your address to an out-of-state address through the online system or by mail. However, if you have permanently moved and established residency in another state, you should eventually get a license from that state instead. The MVC can advise you on this when you contact them.
Will changing my address affect my vehicle registration?
Your driver's license and vehicle registration are separate records. Changing your license address does not automatically update your vehicle registration. You will need to change your registration address separately through the MVC if your vehicle is registered in New Jersey.
What if my proof of address document is older than 60 days?
The MVC requires proof documents dated within the last 60 days. If your document is older, get a newer one — a recent utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement. If you cannot obtain a newer document, call the MVC at 609-292-6500 to ask about exceptions.