How to Change Your Address With the New Jersey DMV

Where to Change Your Address in New Jersey

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) handles address changes for driver's licenses and vehicle registrations. You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at an MVC office. The online method is fastest — it takes about five minutes and costs nothing — but it only works if you have a valid New Jersey driver's license or non-driver ID card and a credit or debit card to verify your identity.

If you cannot use the online system, you can mail a form to the MVC or visit a regional office. Mail takes two to three weeks. In-person visits are same-day, but you will need to bring specific documents and may wait one to two hours depending on the office and time of day.

Your vehicle registration and driver's license are separate records. Changing one does not automatically change the other. You must update both if you own a vehicle and hold a license.

Key Takeaways

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission processes all address changes for licenses and registrations, and the online method is free and takes about five minutes.
You must update your driver's license and vehicle registration separately — changing one does not affect the other.
In-person visits at MVC offices are same-day but require original documents; mail takes two to three weeks.
If you move out of state or let your license expire, you cannot use the online system and must visit an office or mail documents.

Changing Your Address Online

Go to the New Jersey MVC website and select the option to change your address. You will need your driver's license or non-driver ID number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will ask you to enter your new address and verify it matches your records.

After you submit, the MVC sends a confirmation email. Your new address takes effect when ready in the system, though your physical license card will not change — the address on file is what matters for legal purposes. If you want a replacement card with your new address printed on it, you can order one for a fee through the same online system, or wait until your license renewal.

The online system only works if your license is currently valid and you have not moved out of state. If your license is expired or suspended, or if you are now a resident of another state, you must use the mail or in-person method.

Changing Your Address by Mail

read or request the MVC-6 form (process for New Jersey Driver License or Identification Card) from the MVC website. Fill in your new address on the form. You do not need to fill out every field — only your name, date of birth, new address, and current license number are required for an address change.

Mail the completed form to the address listed on the MVC website, along with a copy of a document that shows your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. Do not send your original license.

Include a check or money order if you are ordering a replacement card with your new address. If you are only updating the address on file, there is no fee. Mail typically arrives within two to three weeks. The MVC will send you a confirmation letter when your address has been updated.

Changing Your Address in Person

Visit any New Jersey MVC office with your current driver's license or non-driver ID and one document showing your new address. Acceptable address documents are the same as for mail: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. Bring the original document, not a copy.

Tell the staff member you are changing your address. They will update your record on the spot. If you want a replacement card printed with your new address, you can order it at the office for a fee. Same-day replacement cards are available at some locations; others mail them to you within one to two weeks. Ask the staff member which applies at your office.

MVC offices are busiest on weekday mornings and Saturdays. Weekday afternoons are usually less crowded. Check the MVC website for office hours and locations near you. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require an appointment. The website will tell you which method your chosen office uses.

Changing Your Vehicle Registration Address

Your vehicle registration is a separate record from your driver's license. You must update it separately, even if you have already changed your license address. The MVC will not automatically link the two.

You can change your registration address online through the MVC website if your registration is current and you have a credit or debit card. The process is similar to changing your license address: enter your vehicle identification number (VIN), registration number, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Your new address takes effect when ready.

If you cannot use the online system, mail the MVC-3 form (process for New Jersey Vehicle Registration) with a copy of an address document, or visit an MVC office with your registration card and an address document. The same address documents that work for a license change work for registration: utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.

What Happens After You Change Your Address

The MVC updates its records when ready if you change your address online or in person. If you mail the form, the update takes two to three weeks. During that time, the MVC still has your old address on file. If you receive a ticket or notice during this period, it may be sent to your old address.

Your new address is used for all future correspondence, including registration renewal notices and license renewal reminders. If you move again, you must update your address again through the same method. There is no limit to how many times you can change your address.

If you have a commercial driver's license (CDL), the address change process is the same. If you have a learner's permit, you can change your address online or in person, but not by mail.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not assume that changing your license address changes your registration address. They are separate records and must be updated separately. Many people change one and forget the other, then receive renewal notices at their old address.

Do not send your original license or registration card by mail. Send only a copy of the form and address documents. The MVC will not return your original card, and you will need it while your change is being processed.

Do not use an address document older than 60 days. The MVC will reject it. If you just moved and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, ask your landlord for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your new address and move-in date. Some MVC offices will accept this in place of a standard document.

Do not wait until your license or registration expires to change your address. If either one expires, you cannot use the online system and must visit an office or mail documents. Renewing and changing your address at the same time takes longer and requires more documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to change my address with the MVC?

Online changes take effect when ready. In-person changes are same-day. Mail takes two to three weeks. During the mail process, your old address remains on file, so any notices sent during that time may go to your old address.

Do I need to change my address if I only moved within New Jersey?

Yes. You must update your address with the MVC within a reasonable time after moving, regardless of whether you stayed in the state. Driving with an outdated address on your license is not illegal, but it can cause problems if you are stopped or need to renew your registration.

What if I moved out of state but still have a New Jersey license?

You cannot use the online system if you are no longer a New Jersey resident. You must mail the MVC-6 form with your new out-of-state address and an address document, or visit an MVC office in person if you are still in the state. If you have moved permanently, you should consider getting a license from your new state instead.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

You cannot use the online system if your license is expired. You must visit an MVC office in person or mail the form. Bring or send your expired license along with your new address and an address document. The MVC will update your address and may ask if you want to renew your license at the same time.

Will I get a new card with my new address printed on it?

Not automatically. If you change your address online or by mail without ordering a replacement, your address on file updates but your physical card stays the same. If you want a new card printed with your new address, you must order it separately for a fee. In-person visits give you the option to order a replacement card on the spot.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.