Getting a New Jersey Driver's License

NOTE: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Student & Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) has issued guidance permitting schools to issue electronic I-20s. A Form I-20 that has been electronically signed by a DSO and sent to a student is now valid for use once the student has printed the original form and physically signed their I-20. A physical I-20 picked up from the Davis IC is NOT required. Please contact us at [email protected] if you encounter any issues at the local MVC/DMV offices. 

If you choose to operate a motor vehicle while living in the state of New Jersey, state law requires that you obtain a valid New Jersey driver's license within 60 days of residing in the state. International students, scholars, and their families in New Jersey may apply for a New Jersey driver's license at any Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office

NOTE: We encourage you to make an appointment. Please see https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/locations/liccenters.htm for the latest information on closures, capacity limits, and if an appointment is needed.

The MVC office closest to Princeton is Bakers Basin (#13 on the map) and is located at:

Motor Vehicle Commission
Bakers Basin
3200 Brunswick Pike
Route 1 North
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648

Additional, up to date information can be found here: https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/pdf/license/FAQ_firsttime.pdf. 

 

Identification Required

The New Jersey MVC uses an identification verification process called the 6 point ID verification system which requires that all applicants applying for or renewing a New Jersey driver's license or non-driver identification card prove their identity through a required combination of documents. Each type of document is assigned a point value, and the total point value of all documents presented must be at least six (6) points.

For detailed information or to view the 6 Point ID document requirements or to download a 6-point brochure visit the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission website.

For international students and scholars the identification documents required will include:

  • Valid passport
  • Most recent I-94 arrival document electronic printout that you may retrieve from www.cbp.gov/I94
  • Original I-20 (F-1/F-2) or DS-2019 (J-1/J-2). The printed electronic I-20 or DS-2019 sent by Davis IC and signed by you is currently accepted.
  • A Social Security card is also required unless you are not eligible to obtain one. If you are not eligible for a Social Security card, you must complete the DMV’s Affidavit of No Social Security form.

Please check the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission's website to make sure you have all required items with you when applying for a license or to download the Driving in New Jersey Manual.

Information about Driving with an International Driving Permit (IDP)