What Is New Jersey Form DRM-21?
Form DRM-21 is the Individual Restoration Requirement Application issued by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. It allows individuals to request official information about the specific requirements needed to restore their driving privileges, registration privileges, or both.
According to the form itself, this application is required for individuals seeking information regarding the requirements to restore their driving and/or registration privileges. There is no fee for this service. The form may be photocopied, and it can be mailed, faxed, or emailed to the MVC.
The current version of the form is DRM-21 (06/19). You can download the official PDF directly from the New Jersey MVC website:
Download New Jersey Form DRM-21 (PDF)
Note: Requests submitted on behalf of clients (for example, by attorneys or third parties) must use Form DRM-21A instead and follow its separate instructions.
Who Should File Form DRM-21?
You should complete Form DRM-21 if:
- Your New Jersey driver’s license is suspended or revoked
- Your vehicle registration privileges are suspended
- You need a clear, official list of everything required to restore those privileges
- You want to avoid incomplete submissions that delay restoration
Common reasons for suspension in New Jersey include accumulation of points, unpaid surcharges, failure to maintain insurance, unpaid tickets or fines, DUI/DWI convictions, failure to appear in court, or other administrative actions by the MVC.
Using DRM-21 helps you obtain a personalized list of outstanding requirements rather than guessing what the MVC needs.
Key Information Required on Form DRM-21
All sections of the application must be completed clearly in print. The form requests the following information from the requester:
- Requester’s full name (First, Middle Initial, Last)
- Phone number
- Street address
- City, state, and ZIP code
- Email address (if applicable)
- Requester’s driver license number
Important requirement: The application must be accompanied by a photocopy of the requester’s current New Jersey driver license or non-driver identification card. If neither document is available, contact the Driver Records Management Bureau for assistance before submitting.
You must also sign and date the form. The certification states that all statements are true and that willfully false statements are subject to punishment. Only an original signature is accepted — signature stamps are not allowed.
How to Submit Form DRM-21?
There is no fee to submit Form DRM-21. The completed application (with the required photocopy of your ID) may be sent by one of the following methods:
- Mail: Driver Records Management Bureau, P.O. Box 134, Trenton, NJ 08666-0134
- Fax: 609-984-4407
- Email: [email protected]
Allow approximately 10 business days for processing. If the information is returned electronically, the MVC follows encryption protocols for data security. It is the requester’s responsibility to ensure they can open the encrypted email on their device.
For questions, contact the Driver Records Management Bureau at 609-292-7500.
How Form DRM-21 Fits Into the License Restoration Process?
Submitting Form DRM-21 is typically an early step. Once you receive the list of restoration requirements from the MVC, you must satisfy every item before privileges can be restored. Common requirements include:
- Serving the full suspension period (no early termination in most cases)
- Paying all outstanding fines, tickets, and MVC surcharges
- Completing required programs such as the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) for DUI-related suspensions or a Driver Improvement Program
- Providing proof of current insurance (especially for uninsured motorist suspensions)
- Paying the $100 restoration fee (license) and, if applicable, the $100 registration restoration fee
After all requirements are met and the restoration fee is paid, the MVC issues a Notice of Restoration by mail. Do not drive until you receive this written notice. Driving while suspended can result in additional penalties.
You can pay the $100 restoration fee online through the official MVC portal, in person at a Regional Service Center, or by mail. Official details on suspensions and restorations are available on the NJ MVC Suspensions and Restorations page.
If your license expired during the suspension period, you will generally need to renew it in person after restoration eligibility is confirmed. Suspensions lasting more than three years may also require retesting.
Related Forms and Resources
The New Jersey MVC maintains an official forms page that includes DRM-21 and related documents:
- NJ MVC Official Forms Page (lists DRM-21 Individual Restoration Requirement Application and DRM-21A)
- Form DRM-21A — used when a third party (such as an attorney) requests restoration requirement information on behalf of a client
- Driver History Abstract (Form DO-21) — useful for reviewing your complete driving record and active suspensions
Always download forms directly from the official New Jersey government domain (nj.gov or njmvc.gov) to ensure you have the current version.
Tips for a Successful Application and Restoration
- Complete every field on Form DRM-21 clearly and accurately.
- Include the required photocopy of your current driver license or non-driver ID.
- Keep copies of everything you submit, including proof of payment for fines and programs.
- Address every suspension reason listed on your abstract or Notice of Suspension. Partial clearance does not restore privileges.
- Confirm restoration status with the MVC before driving. Receipt of the official Notice of Restoration is required.
- If you have questions about a specific requirement (for example, medical review or commercial privileges), contact the appropriate MVC unit directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee for Form DRM-21?
No. The Individual Restoration Requirement Application is free.
How long does processing take?
The MVC asks applicants to allow 10 business days.
Can someone else request the information for me?
Yes, but they must use Form DRM-21A and follow its instructions.
What if I don’t have a current New Jersey driver license or non-driver ID?
Contact the Driver Records Management Bureau at 609-292-7500 for guidance before submitting the form.
Does submitting DRM-21 restore my license?
No. It only provides the list of requirements. You must still satisfy all conditions and pay the applicable restoration fee(s).
Conclusion
New Jersey Form DRM-21 is a simple, free, and essential tool for any driver or vehicle owner seeking to restore suspended privileges. By requesting an official list of restoration requirements from the Driver Records Management Bureau, you can avoid delays caused by incomplete information and move efficiently through the remaining steps of the restoration process.
Download the official form here: https://www.nj.gov/mvc/pdf/violations/DRM-21.pdf
For the most current procedures, always refer to the official New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission website at www.nj.gov/mvc or contact the Driver Records Management Bureau directly. Requirements and contact details can change, so verify information with the MVC before taking action.