In New Jersey, drivers must renew their licenses every four years, and this requirement applies to senior drivers as well. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) may send a renewal form a few months before the license expiration date.
Renewal Options
New Jersey offers several ways to renew a driver’s license:
- In person Complete the renewal form (available at the MVC or the one mailed to you) and bring it to your local MVC. You will need to have your identity and documents verified, provide a signature, and have a photo taken. Your new license, valid for four years, will be mailed to you.
- By mail Both in-state and out-of-state residents can renew by mail, but some restrictions apply. Complete the renewal form, include a check or money order for $24, and mail it in. Expect the new license within 10 business days.
- You cannot renew by mail if you have a Graduated Driver’s License (GDL), a suspended license, a Temporary Visa Restriction, require a new photo, or have an ignition interlock on your vehicle.
- Out-of-state residents or military personnel must contact the NJ MVC to explain their inability to renew in person, request a renewal form, include payment, provide copies of 6 points of identification, proof of a permanent New Jersey address, and an out-of-state address.
- Online New Jersey allows online license renewals, and many individuals are eligible even if the renewal form states an in-person visit is required. To renew online, visit the NJ MVC online renewal portal and follow the instructions.
- You cannot renew online if your license is a Commercial Driver License (CDL), has been suspended, has a Temporary Visa Restriction, or has been expired for over six months.
Fees and Documents
The renewal fee is $24, whether renewing online, in person, or by mail. When renewing in person or by mail, you will need to provide:
- At least one primary ID
- At least one secondary ID
- Proof of Social Security Number
- Proof of Address
New Jersey uses a points system for identification, requiring a total of six points to verify identity.
Additional Information for Seniors
- Vision Tests: All drivers in New Jersey are required to take a vision test every 10 years.
- Senior Hours: MVC Vehicle Centers offer special hours (2-4pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays) for customers age 65 and over for car purchases.
- License photo validity: For residents 65 and older, driver license and ID photographs are permanently valid.
- Keep in mind: It’s important to check specific requirements well in advance of the license expiration date to ensure a smooth renewal process.
Sources:
[1] https://zutobi.com/us/nj-car/driver-guides/new-jersey-drivers-license-renewal
[2] https://www.thezebra.com/resources/driving/driving-rules-seniors/
[3] https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/new-jersey-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
