NJMVC reopens in stages with limited in-person transactions

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) announced earlier this month that its reopening will occur in

stages, limiting in-person transactions, and encouraging customers to use NJMVC.com more often.

Amid the COVID-19 crisis, the MVC had forced extended closures of its agencies and inspection stations, with the possibility of reopening dates kept getting postponed.

Now, the phased re-openings, which began Monday, include drop-off and pick-up transactions at designated Licensing and also Vehicle Centers that are processing and validating driving permits from driving and high schools; also processing license plates, registrations and title work from dealers.

“With the phased reopening of the Motor Vehicle Commission, we’re passing another important milestone on the road back,” said N.J. Gov. Phil Murphy.

“The MVC is implementing smart, innovative plans to safely deliver motor vehicle services to New Jerseyans as we continue to fight against COVID-19,” he said.

These reopening of the MVC services will proceed in a way that safeguards public health and safety, bringing many changes and improved efficiencies to the Commission operations.

Going forward, around June 29, the MVC will also possibly allow road tests, issue new licenses and permits, and maybe also conduct out-of-state transactions such as transfers and private sales registrations, also on a limited basis to avoid overcrowding.

“The old MVC crowded a lot of people into a lot of small spaces. We can’t operate like that in a COVID-19 world,” said Chief Administrator Sue Fulton.

“Our reopening plan re-imagines MVC workflows, with streamlined processes to clear the backlog and ensure that you spend as little time as possible at MVC,” she said.

The MVC also requires all customers and employees to wear a face masks at its facilities, and if they cannot do so, there will be other arrangements for their transactions.

“We have more innovations coming to speed our service, while keeping our customers and employees safe,” Fulton stated. “We look forward to sharing further plans as they are finalized.”