What to do with New Jersey plates after moving to Connecticut
The answer can be return, cancel, destroy, recycle, or keep. Follow the reviewed New Jersey instruction only after the Connecticut registration and insurance handoff are safe.
Complete the replacement record
Transfer the out-of-state registration within 90 days. Connecticut allows a combined appointment when the license and vehicle transactions are both ready.
Bring proof of insurance that meets Connecticut's minimum requirements for the registration transaction.
Surrender New Jersey plates that will no longer be used
Return the plates to MVC in person or by mail and keep the surrender receipt. MVC says plates must be returned when vehicle insurance is terminated.
Open the official New Jersey instructionReviewed 2026-07-31- 1. Activate acceptable destination coverage
Confirm the effective date with the new insurer.
- 2. Register in Connecticut
Keep the issued registration or official receipt.
- 3. Complete the New Jersey plate action
Keep the surrender, cancellation, mailing, destruction, or retention record the state provides.
- 4. End or rewrite the old policy
Ask the insurer to use dates that do not create an uncovered active registration.
Sources for this closeout sequence
- New Jersey MVC: PlatesChecked 2026-07-31 ↗InsuranceExit closeout
- Connecticut DMV: Transfer an out-of-state licenseChecked 2026-07-31 ↗LicenseRegistration
- Connecticut DMV: Register an out-of-state vehicleChecked 2026-07-31 ↗RegistrationInsuranceInspection / VINTitle / lienTax / fees