Certified Translation for the New Jersey MVC

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If you are submitting documents to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) that are written in a language other than English, you may need to provide a certified English translation.

The New Jersey MVC requires that certain foreign-language documents be accompanied by a translation prepared by a qualified translator. This allows MVC officials to review the information contained in the document when processing driver’s license applications or license transfers.

Certling provides certified translations that can support administrative procedures involving the New Jersey MVC.

Driving in New Jersey with a Foreign Driver's License

If you are visiting the United States and are not establishing permanent residency, you may drive in New Jersey using a valid foreign driver’s license for up to one year.

Your foreign license must be accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in your country of residence.

To drive in New Jersey with a foreign license, the following conditions must be met:

  • Validity of License – The foreign driver’s license must be valid and not expired.

  • Carry Documentation – You must carry both your foreign driver’s license and your International Driving Permit while driving.

  • Duration – Visitors may drive in New Jersey for up to one year with a foreign license and IDP.

  • Vehicle Class – Your license must cover the type of vehicle you are driving.

If your driver’s license is not written in English, it is generally recommended to carry an English translation of the license to help avoid language barriers when renting a vehicle or presenting your license to authorities.

Photo by Óscar Salgado

Translation Requirements for the New Jersey MVC

According to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, documents written in a foreign language must be accompanied by a certified translation prepared by a qualified translator.

The certified translation must include:

  • The full English translation of the document

  • The name and signature of the translator

  • A statement from the translator confirming that the translation is accurate

  • The date of the translation

The translator must also confirm that they are competent in both the original language and English.

Source: New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission – Certified Translation Guidelines

Swapping Your Foreign Driver's License in New Jersey

If you move to New Jersey as a resident, you may be able to transfer your foreign driver's license to a New Jersey driver's license.

The process depends on whether your country has a reciprocity agreement with New Jersey.

Applicants must provide documents that verify identity, residency, and lawful presence in the United States.

Reciprocity Agreements

New Jersey currently has reciprocity agreements with Taiwan and South Korea for non-commercial (Class D) driver’s licenses.

Drivers from these countries may be eligible to transfer their license without taking the knowledge and road tests if they meet the required criteria.

Required documents for reciprocity applicants may include:

  • Valid foreign driver’s license

  • Certified translation of the license if it is not in English

  • Proof of identity, such as a valid passport

  • Proof of New Jersey residency

  • Social Security number documentation

  • Verification of lawful presence in the United States

Additional Requirements for Reciprocity Applicants

Taiwan

Applicants must provide:

  • A valid Taiwan Resident Certificate (valid for at least six months)

  • A Verification of Certificate of Driver’s License issued by the Republic of China (Taiwan)

South Korea

Applicants must provide:

  • A certified translation of their license if the license is not in English

  • An Apostille or notarial certificate if the license was issued before 2019

  • A Certificate of Driver’s License from Korea in English confirming the license is valid and in good standing

Non-Reciprocity Countries

If your country does not have a reciprocity agreement with New Jersey, you will generally need to complete the full licensing process.

This may include:

  • Passing the knowledge test

  • Passing the road test

Even if testing is required, foreign-language documents submitted during the application process may still require a certified English translation.

Certified Translations with Certling

Certling provides certified translations suitable for many official uses in the United States, including documents presented to the New Jersey MVC.

Our platform allows you to securely upload your documents and obtain a certified translation prepared by professional translators experienced in official documentation.

Unlike many translation providers that charge per page, Certling analyzes your document and charges only for the words that actually need translating, helping keep costs fair and transparent.

Getting a certified translation shouldn’t feel confusing, slow, or stressful.

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Upload your documents, see a fair per-word price instantly, and skip the parts you don’t need. You get official translations that work for visas, university admissions, jobs, or legal filings, delivered on time.

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