General
Auto Body
Corp Code
Dealer
Driving School
Emergency Lights
What is the mailing address for Business Licensing Services Bureau (BLS)?
The BLS mailing address is NJMVC – Business Licensing Services Bureau 225 E. State St./P.O. Box 170 Trenton, NJ 08666-0170.
What are the hours of operations for BLS?
BLS’ office hours are 8:30am to 4:30pm and phone hours are 8:00am to 5:00pm.
Where does BLS hold pre-hearing conferences?
Pre-hearing conferences are held, by appointment only, at the NJMVC - Trenton Regional Agency located at 120 South Stockton Street, Trenton, NJ 08611.
How do I apply for a MVC issued business license?
You can visit the Commission’s website for instructions on how to apply for any MVC issued business license. You will find a list of the license types at http://www.state.nj.us/mvcbiz/BusinessServices/index.htm.
I have a new business partner. Can I add them to my MVC issued business license?
Yes. To amend your business license for adding a partner, You must complete the Application to Amend a Business License, Registration or Permit and submit supporting documentation as outlined in the application instructions.
I replaced my corporate secretary. What are the steps to change an officer on my MVC issued business license?
To amend your business license for adding an officer, you must complete the Application to Amend a Business License, Registration or Permit and provide supporting documentation as outlined in the application instructions.
My business name is ABC Limited Partnership. I would like to change it to ABC Corporation. What do I need to do to change the business structure on my MVC issued business license?
To amend your business license due to business structure change, you must complete the Application to Amend a Business License, Registration or Permit and provide supporting documentation as outlined in the application instructions.
I received a formal notice concerning my MVC issued business license, how do I request a hearing?
Follow the instructions within the letter you received. You must submit your request in writing on your business letterhead and specify the reason why you are disputing the findings along with supporting documentation supporting said dispute. You must mail the request to NJMVC Business Licensing Services Bureau – Administrative Action Unit P.O. Box 170 Trenton, NJ 08666-0170.
I am unable to attend my hearing, how do I reschedule?
You must notify Business Licensing Services Bureau – Administrative Action Unit in writing within 10 days of scheduled hearing in order to reschedule. You can fax your request to 609-292-4400 or mail your request to NJMVC Business Licensing Services Bureau – Administrative Action Unit, P.O. Box 170 Trenton, NJ 08666-0170.
Will a criminal record automatically disqualify me from acquiring an MVC issued business license?
No. Each applicant’s criminal history will be treated on a case-by-case basis.
Is there a fee for a duplicate license?
The Commission does not charge a fee for a duplicate business license.
Can I utilize a P.O. Box as my business address?
New Jersey law requires dealers to utilize a physical address, which you must provide to the MVC. If the township or post office requires you to utilize a P.O Box because mail is not delivered to your physical address, you will need to provide the MVC with a letter from the postmaster general stating such. Once the letter is received, management reviews the letter and makes a decision as to whether the PO Box may be used for MVC mailings.
If my driver’s license is suspended, will it affect my business license?
Yes. All privileges associated with your driver’s license number will be suspended. After restoring your driver’s license, you must contact the Business Licensing Services Bureau in order to have your business license privileges restored. We can be reached at 609-292-6500 ext. 5014.
How do I apply for an Auto Body Repair Facility License?
You can visit the Commission’s website for instructions on how to apply for any MVC business license. You will instructions for applying at http://www.state.nj.us/mvcbiz/BusinessServices/AutoBodyRepair.htm
Can I add a satellite (branch) location to my Auto Body Repair Facility license?
No. In accordance with N.J.A.C. 13:21-21.4(g), if there are multiple places of business for an auto body repair facility, then a separate license shall be issued for each such place of business. Each location shall be issued its own license and license number.
My neighbor is performing auto body repairs to vehicles in his backyard. Is that legal?
The State of New Jersey requires Auto Body Repair Facilities to obtain and maintain required municipal and state licenses, permits and registrations in order to conduct operations. You can also find a list of licensed auto body locations at http://www.state.nj.us/mvcbiz/BusinessServices/licensed_facilities.htm. To report facilities operating without a license, you must fill out a complaint form and forward to the address listed on the form.
I had my vehicle repaired for mechanical issues at my local auto repair shop and my vehicle is still in poor running condition. How do I file a complaint?
You can file a complaint with the Division of Consumer Affairs. They can be reached at 973-504-6200.
What are the insurance requirements for auto body licensing?
You must carry $50,000 in garage keepers’ liability and $300,000 in garage liability or equivalent commercial general liability. Garage liability and commercial general liability are not the same as garage keepers’. Garage liability and commercial general liability protect the shop owner’s property. Garage keepers’ protects the customer’s car while being repaired from vandalism, fire, theft, etc.
What is the fee to renew my Auto Body Repair Facility license?
The fee to renew any Auto Body license is $350. This includes Auto Body Limited, Full Service, Sublet and Heavy Duty Endorsement licenses.
Your office already has my color photo on file, do I need to send in another photo?
Color photos are required upon submission of an initial application only. It is not required to send a photo upon renewal of an Auto Body Repair Facility license.
I moved my business to a new location; what do I need to do?
You must complete the Application to Amend a Business License, Registration or Permit and provide supporting documentation as outlined in the application instructions.
I now have an ABL (limited license, no spray painting) I would like to upgrade to a ABR (full service auto body) what do I need to do.
You must submit proof of purchase of spray booth and fresh air equipment and an agreement for hazardous waste removal.
We added/dropped an officer to/from our corporation; what do we do?
You must complete the Application to Amend a Business License, Registration or Permit and provide supporting documentation as outlined in the instructions on the application.
My training certificate was issued 2 years ago and does not expire until the end of next year.
N.J.S.A. 39:13-2.1 states that the training course must be taken during the year immediately preceding the application for renewal or licensing, not when the certification expires.
I am completing the NJ Department of Environmental Protection air pollution exemption certification and it is asking for an activity and program number, how should I respond?
You may leave those two places blank, that number comes from DEP not MVC.
My fire inspector will not inspect my building; what should I do?
Notify the Business Licensing Services Bureau immediately to inform them of the matter because state law requires the inspection for licensure. You should also contact the Municipal Executive Building Official to report the refusal of the fire inspector to inspect your property.
We perform all of our own services; do I still need to fill out the sub-contract agreement?
Yes, there is a box on the agreement that says “we perform all of the above services ourselves.” Check the box and have the owner sign where it says Licensee.
I will be restoring antique cars. None of them were ever in a collision; do I need an Auto Body Repair Facility license from the state?
No. NJ Motor Vehicle Commission will only license repair facilities that repair vehicles that have been damaged because of a collision. (“collision” means any damage caused by missiles, falling objects, fire, theft, larceny, windstorm, hail, earthquake, explosion, riot or civil commotion, malicious mischief, vandalism, water, flood, lighting, external discharge or leakage of water, smoke, or colliding with a bird, animal or stationary object.)
Will I get something in the mail to renew my Auto Body Repair Facility license?
Yes. If you do not have a renewal application by the first week in august then call the Motor Vehicle Business Licensing Unit, 609 292-6500 ext. 5014 and we will mail one to you.
My father owns an auto body shop and has since passed away; may I transfer the shop into my name?
You will have to submit the proper paper work indicating that the business was left to you as part of the estate, or a notarized letter from the executor of the estate granting you the permission to put the business into your name.
I perform auto body repairs on vehicles that weigh 14,000 pounds or more. Do I need another license to perform these repairs?
Yes, you must apply for an Auto Body Heavy Duty Vehicle endorsement.
How do I apply for a Corporation Code (Corp Code)?
You must visit http://www.state.nj.us/mvcbiz/BusinessOwned/TitlesForBusinessVehicles.htm to get detailed instructions on applying for a Corp Code.
Can I fax my Corp Code request, application and supporting documents?
Yes. You can fax your request, application and supporting documents to 609-341-3314.
Can I email my Corp Code request, application and supporting documents?
Yes. You can email your request, application and supporting documents to MVCCorpcodes@mvc.nj.gov.
What is the status of my Corp Code request?
Requests for initial Corp Codes take 3 to 5 business days to process and requests for changes to existing Corp Codes take 1 to 2 business days to process. Have your Federal Tax Identification Number available and call the Business Licensing Services Bureau at 609-292-6500 extension 5003 for a status update.
I am in the business of selling cars. Do I need to apply for a Corp Code first?
The State of New Jersey requires automobile dealers to be licensed. Therefore, you must apply for an NJ Motor Vehicle Dealer License in order to sell cars. The Corp Code will be issued in conjunction with the NJ Motor Vehicle Dealer License.
I have multiple Corp Codes in the system, which one do I utilize to register my new vehicles?
The Business Licensing Services Bureau can combine the Corp Codes assigned to your business. Instructions are as follows;
- Provide a letter of explanation, signed by a representative with the authority to make such changes, listing all Corp Codes assigned to your company. (If you are unsure of the Corp Codes assigned to your company, contact BLSB at 609-292-6500 ext. 5003 for a list.)
- Provide proof of your Federal Employer Identification Number showing the correct name and address.
- Fax your request to 609-341-3314 or email your request to MVCCorpcodes@mvc.nj.gov
How do I apply for a NJ Motor Vehicle Dealer License?
You can visit the Commission’s website for instructions on how to apply for any MVC Business License. You will find instructions for applying at http://www.state.nj.us/mvcbiz/BusinessServices/Dealership.htm
How do I apply for a wholesale dealer license?
At present, New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission does not issue a wholesale dealer license. The motor dealer license issued by Business Licensing Services can be utilized to conduct wholesale and/or retail sales. The Zoning Board, in the municipality where the business is located, will dictate the type of sales the business is allowed to transact.
I changed my business name 3 months ago with New Jersey Division of Commercial Recording. Can MVC send me a new wall license reflecting the correct name?
You must complete Application to Amend a Business License, Registration or Permit and provide supporting documentation as outlined in the instructions on the application.
How do I change the address of my dealership?
You must complete the Application to Amend a Business License, Registration or Permit and provide supporting documentation as outlined in the instructions on the application.
What is the status of my dealer license application?
The application process takes approximately 6 to 8 weeks. If you are outside of that timeframe, you may contact Business Licensing Services Bureau at 609-292-6500 ext. 5013 for an update.
What is the time period for the dealer renewal?
The dealer renewal commences on February 1st and ends on March 31st every year.
Do I need to acquire a dealer license for my vehicle storage facility?
No. Dealer license are only required for location from which you intent to sell vehicle.
What do I do if my plates are stolen or lost?
Immediately contact the police and report your plate lost or stolen. You must send a copy of the police report to the Business Licensing Services Bureau, PO Box 170, Trenton, NJ 08666-0170.
Do I need an attorney to attend a pre-hearing conference?
No, an attorney is not required to attend a pre-hearing conference.
My friend is selling me his dealership license. What do I do to begin selling cars?
NJ Motor Vehicle Dealer Licenses are non-transferrable. Therefore you must visit http://www.state.nj.us/mvcbiz/BusinessServices/Dealership.htm and follow the instructions. You can also download the applicable dealer license application.
I bought a car and my temp tag has expired; how do I file a complaint?
Visit http://www.state.nj.us/mvc/pdf/Business_Licenses/BLS_Customer_Complaint_Form.pdf and follow the instruction on the form.
I bought a car and believe the dealer sold me a “lemon”; how do I file a complaint?
Lemon Law complaints are handled through the Division of Consumer Affairs. They can be reached at (973) 504-6200.
I am an NJ Licensed Dealer and I am having trouble with the temp tag system. What do I do?
You can contact NJMVC Business Licensing Service Bureau at 609-292-6500 ext. 5014 and a representative will troubleshoot the problem for you or direct you to temp tag support.
I received my dealer license in the mail. How do I set up an account to issue e-temps?
Instructions to sign up for e-temps is located on MVC’s website. Click E-Temp Tag Sign Up and follow the instructions.
What is the time limitation on a resident e-temp?
A resident e-temp tag shall expire 30 days from the date of issuance.
Can a dealer issue a second resident e-temp?
Yes. A second resident e-temp (valid for 30 days) may be issued if the permanent registration of the vehicle is delayed because the original tile is lost or because the lien holder has delayed in providing the original title.
What is the time limitation for a non-resident e-temp?
A non-resident e-temp shall expire 20 days from the date of issuance. The issuance of a second non- resident e-temp or extension of non-resident e-temp is prohibited.
Can a trailer be used as a motor vehicle dealer office?
Yes. However, it will need to meet all the requirements of a dealer office and you will need to remove the axle.
What is the fee to restore my motor vehicle dealer license?
The total fee, to restore a motor vehicle dealer license and registration is $200. That fee includes $100 restoration fee for license and $100 restoration fee for the registration.
What are the requirements for obtaining a dealership license?
Visit http://www.state.nj.us/mvcbiz/IndexPages/autodealerIndex.htm and review the information listed under “licensing of dealerships”; you will also have the ability to download and print an initial application for licensure.
Can BLS recommend a good bond or liability insurance company?
No. It is a violation of state law for a BLS employee to recommend a bond and/or insurance company to an applicant or licensee.
How do I obtain a Driving School License?
Visit http://www.state.nj.us/mvcbiz/BusinessServices/DrivingSchool.htm and review the information contained within. You will also have the ability to download and print an initial application for licensure.
How do I obtain a Driving School Instructor License?
Visit http://www.state.nj.us/mvcbiz/BusinessServices/DrivingSchoolInstructor.htm and review the information contained within. You will also have the ability to download an initial application for licensure.
I am a licensed driving school instructor and transferred to another school. How do I obtain a license indicating the correct driving school?
You must contact the NJMVC Business Licensing Services Bureau at 609-292-6500 ext. 5014 and request an application for instructor license transfer.
I am a licensed driving school and had to terminate my Supervising Instructor. What do I do now?
You must immediately cease operation, visit http://www.state.nj.us/mvcbiz/pdf/Business_Licenses/drschool.pdf to download page 12 of the initial application, complete the form and submit to NJMVC Business Licensing Services Bureau – Correspondence Unit, P.O. Box 170, Trenton, NJ 08666-0170. Once your file is updated with a licensed supervising driving instructor you can resume operation.
Are there any licensed driving schools in the state that provide services for persons with a disability?
You may visit http://www.state.nj.us/mvc/pdf/Licenses/drs.pdf and download the list of licensed driving schools by zip code. Then you will have to contact the schools in the surrounding area to see if they provide services for persons with a disability.
What is the status of my application for an Emergency Blue Light Permit?
It takes approximately three to five business days, from the date our office receives the application, to process an application for an Emergency Blue Light Permit. We can only verify if the application was received and is in process if you are calling within three business days of receipt of the application.
How do I apply for an Emergency Amber Light Permit?
Visit http://www.state.nj.us/mvcbiz/BusinessServices/light_permits.htm for information on the application process. The site allows you to download and print the application relative to the type of Emergency Light Permit for which you are applying.
I am the Assistant Chief of my local fire department. How do I apply for an Emergency Red Light Permit?
Visit http://www.state.nj.us/mvc/About/Forms.htm#lightpermits and download the applicable Emergency Red Light Permit application. Upon completion of the application you will take the application to the local municipality and have the Mayor approve and sign the application. The Mayor is then required to forward the application to NJMVC Business Licensing Services Bureau – Correspondence Unit, P.O. Box 168, Trenton, NJ 08666-0168.
I have an Emergency Blue Light Permit, am I allowed to have an Emergency Red Light Permit also?
You must surrender your Emergency Blue Light Permit with your application for an Emergency Red Light Permit if the request is for the same emergency response organization.
