If you're stationed out of state on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, including the National Guard and the Reserve, New Jersey gives you some leeway when it comes to renewing your driver's license and vehicle registration. In fact, you can wait until two weeks after you're discharged or return to New Jersey to renew your driver's license and registration. This extension doesn't waive the renewal fees, however, so be prepared to pay up when you return.

While you are on active duty, you will need to produce your military credentials along with your New Jersey license and registration if asked by law enforcement. You will also need to provide a copy of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission's Administrative Order (AO) 2005-01, which grants you these extensions. Note that while you may continue to drive on an expired license and registration under this rule, you must always maintain New Jersey auto insurance―you're not allowed to let this lapse.

Your immediate family may drive a vehicle covered by this extension, but they must carry the following documents:

• Valid driver's license

• Vehicle's registration

• Valid insurance card

• Proof of dependency on the military member

• A copy of (AO) 2005-01

If you have any questions, you can contact the MVC at (888) 486-3339 from within New Jersey or (609) 292-6500 from outside the state.

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