NJ MVC Converter Registration Application Package – The New Jersey Converter Registration Application Package is the official set of forms and instructions issued by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJ MVC) Business Licensing Services Bureau. It allows qualified vehicle conversion companies to obtain special converter registrations and license plates (often called “D” plates) under New Jersey law.
These plates may be used only on vehicles owned or controlled by the converter and operated strictly for shop, demonstration, or delivery purposes. The package includes the application form, supplemental certifications, the statutory definition of a converter, insurance requirements, and related notices. The official document is available directly from the NJ MVC website.
You can download the complete package here: New Jersey Converter Registration Application Package (PDF).
Who Needs Converter Registration in New Jersey?
Any company whose primary business involves converting motor vehicles must apply if it wants to use converter plates. According to the NJ MVC’s adopted industry standard definition:
“A company whose primary business is to assemble, install, or affix a body, cab, or special equipment to the chassis or substantially add or subtract from a previously assembled or manufactured motor vehicle.”
Important clarification from the MVC: simply accessorizing a vehicle does not qualify as conversion. The authority for these special plates comes from N.J.S.A. 39:3-18, which specifically covers bona fide converters of commercial motor vehicles, motor-drawn vehicles, or motor vehicle chassis doing business in New Jersey.
Businesses that only install aftermarket accessories, perform routine repairs, or engage in sales without true conversion work are not eligible for converter plates.
Key Requirements for Converter Registration
To qualify and remain in good standing, applicants must meet several core requirements set by the NJ MVC:
- Maintain a permanent place of business in New Jersey.
- Display an exterior sign showing the business name.
- Ensure the facility complies with all applicable municipal zoning, planning, and building requirements.
- Provide proof of liability insurance with minimum limits of $100,000/$250,000 bodily injury and $25,000 property damage. The policy must cover the total number of plates requested. The certificate holder must be listed as: NJ Motor Vehicle Commission, Business Licensing Services Bureau, P.O. Box 171, Trenton, NJ 08666-0171.
- Demonstrate ownership or control of at least one qualifying converted vehicle during the previous twelve months (requirement effective September 1, 2016).
Failure to maintain sufficient proof of qualifying vehicle activity can result in suspension of converter plate registrations. Companies already holding plates that no longer meet the activity threshold should contact Business Licensing Services promptly.
How to Apply for Converter Registration?
The application process is handled exclusively by the NJ MVC Business Licensing Services Bureau. Key steps include:
- Download and carefully complete the Converter Registration Application Package.
- Gather all required supporting documents (detailed below).
- Mail the completed application and attachments to the address shown on the form (Business Licensing Services Bureau, P.O. Box 170, Trenton, NJ 08666-0170).
- Await preliminary review. The MVC does not accept up-front payment for license or registration fees with the initial application (except for certain other license types that require a $20 application fee).
- If the application is preliminarily approved, the MVC will schedule a site inspection when required and then send a notification requesting payment of the applicable registration and plate fees along with updated proof of insurance.
- Once payment is processed, the wall license (if applicable) and plates are mailed to the licensed business location.
All correspondence during the process is sent to the business address listed on the application.
Required Documents and Supporting Materials
When submitting the package, include the following:
- Completed Application for Business License with the “Converter” box checked.
- Proof of New Jersey Sales Tax Identification Number, New Jersey Unemployment Registration Number, and Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN).
- Certificate of Incorporation or Formation filed with the New Jersey Secretary of State (or authorization to do business in New Jersey for foreign entities).
- Certificate of insurance meeting the minimum coverage limits and correctly naming the MVC as certificate holder.
- Completed supplemental forms included in the package (such as personal information form BLC-205B, Child Support Certification, and Business Hours form).
- Any explanations required for criminal history, prior license suspensions, aliases, or significant stock ownership questions.
Incomplete applications or missing documentation will delay processing.
Application Process and Fees
The NJ MVC does not publish a fixed fee amount inside the Converter Registration Application Package itself. After preliminary approval and any required site inspection, the agency issues a formal notification stating the exact amount due for the registrations and one set of five converter plates. Additional plates may be ordered later through a separate plate order form if justification is provided.
No cash is accepted. Payment is typically made by check or money order payable to NJMVC once the notification is received. Processing times vary; applicants should allow several weeks for review, inspection, and plate issuance.
Where to Download the Official Form?
Always obtain the form directly from the official New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission website to ensure you have the most current version. The Converter Registration package is listed under “Dealer registration applications” on the MVC Forms page.
Direct download link: https://www.nj.gov/mvc/pdf/business/converter.pdf
You can also locate it on the main forms listing: NJ MVC Forms.
Contact Information for Assistance
For questions about the Converter Registration Application Package, eligibility, or the status of an application, contact:
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
Business Licensing Services Bureau
P.O. Box 170
Trenton, NJ 08666-0170
Phone: (609) 292-6500, extension 5014
Office hours are generally weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (excluding state holidays). Visit the official website for the latest contact options and any temporary changes: www.nj.gov/mvc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can converter plates be used for personal driving or customer vehicles?
No. Plates may be placed only on vehicles owned or controlled by the converter and operated solely for shop, demonstration, or delivery purposes.
Is a site inspection always required?
Site inspections are conducted where applicable as part of the licensing review process.
What happens if my business no longer converts enough vehicles?
You must contact Business Licensing Services. Continued use of plates without meeting the ownership/control threshold can lead to proposed suspension.
Are there other special category registrations?
Yes. The MVC also offers registration packages for manufacturers, transporters, leasing companies, finance companies, and other special categories. Each has its own dedicated application package available on the forms page.
This guide is based on the official Converter Registration Application Package and related information published by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Requirements and forms can change. Always verify the latest instructions directly with the NJ MVC before submitting an application.