TRENTON, N.J. — Gov. Mikie Sherrill said New Jersey has issued more than 300,000 new REAL IDs during her first four months in office as part of broader efforts to improve Motor Vehicle Commission services.
Sherrill visited the Trenton Motor Vehicle Commission on Thursday to highlight changes aimed at making MVC services faster and more convenient for residents.
According to the administration, the number of New Jersey residents with a REAL ID has grown from about 2.2 million to more than 2.5 million, a 12.5% increase since Sherrill took office.
“Government should be focused on making life easier for people, and that starts with delivering services efficiently,” said Governor Mikie Sherrill. “We expanded REAL ID availability and made it easier for residents to verify their address, helping more New Jerseyans get the services they need. These are common-sense improvements that make a real difference for families across our state, and they show what is possible when government focuses on results.”
The administration said the increase was achieved through operational changes rather than new spending. The MVC expanded REAL ID services to four additional agencies, increasing appointment availability and reducing wait times.
The share of licensed drivers and identification card holders with a REAL ID has increased from about 24% at the beginning of the year to nearly 28%, officials said. The MVC issued more than 73,000 REAL IDs in April and more than 100,000 in May.
“The best way to build trust in government is to deliver results people can see and feel. Under Governor Sherrill’s leadership, we’re building a culture across state agencies that is focused on execution, accountability, and continuous improvement,” said Chief Operating Officer Kellie Doucette. “The progress at MVC shows what can happen when leaders are empowered to identify challenges, use data to drive decisions, and stay relentlessly focused on the resident experience. These changes are saving people time, reducing frustration, and making services easier to access — exactly the kind of practical, measurable results New Jerseyans deserve.”
In April, the MVC began allowing customers to use eligible digital documents as proof of address during the REAL ID process. Officials said the change reduced the percentage of customers required to return for a second appointment from an average of 15% to 8%.
That reduction represents about 279 fewer return visits per day, or roughly 6,700 fewer transactions each month, according to the administration.
“At the MVC, we’re continually enhancing our services and operations,” said Acting MVC Chief Administrator Rosalie Johnson. “By expanding REAL ID services to four additional agencies and making smart operational changes, like accepting digital proofs of address, we’ve significantly increased appointment availability and reduced wait times statewide in just a few months. These changes mean faster transactions, more efficient service, and fewer return visits — ultimately saving New Jerseyans time and money, while delivering an improved MVC experience for all.”
Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, D-Hunterdon, Mercer, said the improvements are intended to reduce barriers for residents seeking MVC services.
“Making government services more accessible starts with reducing unnecessary barriers for residents,” said Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (D-Hunterdon, Mercer). “The improvements at MVC are helping more people obtain their REAL ID efficiently while opening additional appointment opportunities for others who need service. These changes are saving New Jerseyans time and making the customer experience more convenient.”
The administration said the MVC changes are part of a broader effort to make state government services more efficient, accessible and responsive.
