New Jersey Driver’s License Renewal: The Ultimate Guide

Like all states, it is illegal to drive in New Jersey without a valid, unexpired driver’s license. To avoid complications with law enforcement, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission will send you a driver’s license renewal form a few months before your license’s expiration in order to remind you about your upcoming renewal. Your license is set to expire every four years and you will be given up to 7 months prior to expiration in order to renew.

There’s no need to stress about your NJ driver’s license renewal – you’re in the right place! We’ll cover everything you need to know about the process in this guide.

Assemble Proper Documentation

Whether you choose to renew your license in person or by mail using the form you received from the NJ MVC, you will be required to provide documentation to complete the process:

Six Points of Identification

• At least one primary ID
• At least one secondary ID
• Proof of Social Security Number
• Proof of Address

The state of New Jersey assigns ‘points’ to different types of identification forms. You will need to add up to six points in order to complete identity verification with the MVC. You can find a full list of acceptable documents here, or using their online document selector to help you choose documents interactively.

How to Renew Your New Jersey Driver’s License

The state of New Jersey allows you to renew your license in a number of different ways. Depending on if you qualify, you are allowed to renew in person, online, or by mail.

Renewing In Person

You will want to complete the renewal form sent to you by the NJ MVC before heading to the license office. If you did not receive one for any reason, you can grab one at your local MVC location and fill it out on site.

When you visit the MVC, you will have your form review and identity document verified. Afterwards, you will be asked to provide a signature and have your photo taken. You will receive your new license with an expiration date four years from the day it was renewed.

Renewing by Mail

Both in-state and out-of-state residents are allowed to renew their driver’s license by mail. If you are in-state, you’ll need to complete the renewal form sent to you by mail, include a check or money order to cover the $24 renewal fee (at the time of writing), and drop the form into the mail. You will receive your license within 10 business days.

You will not be allowed to renew your NJ driver’s license by mail if:

• You have a Graduated Driver’s License (GDL)
• Your license is suspended
• You have a Temporary Visa Restriction
• You have an ignition interlock on your vehicle due to a DUI/DWI conviction
• You require a new photo to be taken at the MVC

Out-of-state Residents or Military Personnel

If you are an out-of-state resident or currently serving in the military, the process is a bit different. However, you must meet the basic requirements:

• License expired less than three years ago
• You are a US citizen

Once you have confirmed you are eligible for renewal by mail, follow these steps:

1. Contact the NJ MVC explaining your inability to complete an in-person renewal, detailing when you plan to return to the state
2. Once approved for renewal, request a renewal form from MVC
3. Complete form
4. Attach check or money order to cover renewal fee of $24
5. Enclosed scanned photocopies of your 6 points of identification
6. Provide proof of permanent New Jersey address
7. Provide out-of-state address
8. Mail packet to this address.

NJ Motor Vehicle CommissionGovernment In-House Unit225 East State Street P.O. Box 016Trenton, New Jersey 08666-0016

Renewing Online

The state of New Jersey now allows drivers to complete a same-day license renewal online. Even if your form says you are required to visit an agency, you likely will still be eligible for an online renewal.

However, you will not be allowed to renew your NJ driver’s license online if:

• Your license has been suspended
• Your license expired beyond the approved extension period
• You hold a CDL license
• Your license has a Temporary Visa Restriction
• Your license has been expired for over six months

To complete your driver’s license renewal online, visit the NJ MVC online renewal portal and follow the instructions.

New Jersey Driver’s License Renewal Fees

At the time of writing, the NJ renewal fee is $24 – this applies whether you choose to renew online, in person, or by mail.

Driver’s License Extension

You can acquire a one-year license extension if you are undergoing medical treatment around the time of your license’s expiration date. The NJ MVC will require you to provide proof from a licensed physician to approve your appeal.

To request a driver’s license extension, be sure to do the follow these instructions:

• Visit your local MVC with 6 Points of ID and proof of address
• Complete extension form provided by NJ MVC
• Submit documentation verifying medical treatment for illness with a signature from a licensed physician

NJ Driver’s License Grace Period

There is no grace period for New Jersey driver’s licenses. You are allotted seven months prior to your license’s expiration in order to complete a renewal. Once your license is expired, it is considered invalid, however, you will still be able to renew it in person.

Zutobi provides an interactive platform for adults looking to pass the knowledge exam for their New Jersey driver’s license renewal. We have an easy-to-understand driver’s handbook and online practice tests so you’ll come fully prepared. Furthermore, we highly recommended you to regularly refresh your knowledge of the rules of the road and driving safety practices to stay safe on the roads.

That’s It!

Renewing your New Jersey driver’s license can seem like a daunting task, especially if it’s the first time doing so. However, it’s definitely not something to fear as the MVC has made the process fairly simple. We hope this guide has answered all your questions.