NJ Form MR-16 Autism Designation Application Guide

What Is Form MR-16?

Form MR-16 is the official Autism Spectrum/Communication Disorder Designation Application issued by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. The current version (MR-16, 11/24) allows eligible individuals to request the addition or removal of the Autism Spectrum Disorder designation, the Communication Disorder designation, or both.

The form is a simple self-attestation document. Applicants certify that a licensed professional has diagnosed them with autism spectrum disorder or a communication disorder. False statements can result in civil, criminal, or administrative penalties.

You can download the official Form MR-16 directly from the NJMVC website: Download New Jersey Form MR-16 (PDF).

Who Can Apply for the Autism and Communication Disorder Designation?

Any New Jersey resident who holds (or is applying for) a driver’s license or non-driver ID and has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, a communication disorder, or both may apply. Parents, guardians, or caregivers can request the designation on behalf of a minor or dependent.

Key points:

• The designation is voluntary.
• No medical records or doctor’s note are required—only the completed self-attestation Form MR-16.
• Applicants under 18 must also submit the Parent/Guardian Consent Form (MR-24).

Official information is available on the NJMVC Autism Spectrum and/or Communication Disorder Designation page.

How to Apply for the Designation Using Form MR-16?

Applications must be submitted in person at a New Jersey MVC Licensing Service Center. The process cannot be completed by mail or online.

1. Download and complete Form MR-16 accurately. Print or type all information clearly.
2. Indicate whether you want to ADD or REMOVE the Autism Spectrum Disorder designation, Communication Disorder designation, or both.
3. Gather the required identification documents (see next section).
4. Visit any NJMVC Licensing Center. Bring the completed form, 6 points of ID, proof of address, and payment for the applicable fee.
5. If under 18, also bring the completed MR-24 Parent/Guardian Consent Form.

After processing, the updated driver’s license or non-driver ID with the designation is mailed to you. The pink designation/restriction card is issued immediately at the agency. You must carry both documents together.

Required Documents and 6 Points of ID

To process Form MR-16, you must present documents totaling at least 6 points of identification, plus proof of New Jersey residency. For a Real ID license or ID, additional requirements apply (proof of Social Security number and two proofs of address).

Common primary (4-point) documents include a U.S. passport or certified U.S. birth certificate. Secondary documents help reach the 6-point total. Full details are listed on the official NJMVC 6 Points of ID page.

Always bring original or certified documents. Photocopies are generally not accepted.

Fees for Adding the Designation

Fees depend on whether you are renewing your license/ID or requesting a duplicate:

• If it is not time to renew: $11 duplicate license/ID fee.
• If it is time to renew: $24 for a standard license or non-driver ID, or $35 for a Real ID license or non-driver ID.

Fees are subject to change; confirm current amounts at your local Licensing Center or on the NJMVC website.

What Happens After Approval?

Once approved:

• Your new or renewed driver’s license/non-driver ID with the Autism Spectrum and/or Communication Disorder notation is mailed to your address on file.
• You receive a pink “designation/restriction” card at the agency. This card specifies whether you have ASD, a communication disorder, or both.
• The notation is entered into the MVC database and appears under the restrictions section of your credential (often as code “5”).

You must carry the pink card with your license or ID at all times. The designation helps law enforcement officers recognize the need for alternative communication approaches.

Removing the Designation

To remove the designation, complete Form MR-16 indicating the removal request and present it at a Licensing Center along with 6 points of ID. You must also surrender the pink designation card to the Motor Vehicle Commission.

Why This Designation Matters?

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder or communication disorders may experience different communication styles or heightened stress during interactions with law enforcement. The voluntary designation and pink card provide a discreet way to alert officers, supporting safer and more effective communication. New Jersey’s Department of Human Services and Attorney General’s Office have developed guidance for officers on interacting with people who have these diagnoses.

This initiative reflects New Jersey’s commitment to inclusive public safety practices for all residents.

Additional Resources and Tips

• Official Form MR-16 download: https://www.nj.gov/mvc/pdf/license/AutismCommunicationDisorderApplication.pdf
• NJMVC Autism designation information: https://www.nj.gov/mvc/license/Autism.html
• 6 Points of ID requirements: https://www.nj.gov/mvc/license/6pointid.htm
• Find a Licensing Center near you on the official NJMVC website.
• Complete Form MR-16 in advance to speed up your visit.

Always verify the latest requirements and fees directly with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, as policies can be updated. This guide is based on current official NJMVC information as of 2026 and is intended for informational purposes for U.S. residents, particularly those in New Jersey.

By using Form MR-16, New Jersey residents with autism spectrum disorder or communication disorders can take a simple, voluntary step toward improved safety and understanding during everyday interactions with law enforcement.