NJ Manufacturer Registration Form | MVC Application Guide – If you manufacture motor vehicles, motorcycles, motor-drawn vehicles, or related equipment and do business in New Jersey, you may need the official Manufacturer Registration Application Package from the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). This package allows eligible manufacturers to obtain special “D” registration plates for shop, demonstration, and delivery purposes under New Jersey law.
This guide explains what the form is, who needs it, required documents, the application process, and where to download the current package—targeted for U.S. businesses operating in or serving New Jersey.
What Is the New Jersey Manufacturer Registration Application Package?
The Manufacturer Registration Application Package is an official document set issued by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission’s Business Licensing Services Bureau. It is used by bona fide manufacturers of motor vehicles, motorcycles, motorized bicycles, or motor-drawn vehicles to apply for general registration and special “D” plates.
Under New Jersey Revised Statutes Section 39:3-18, manufacturers doing business in the state can register vehicles they own or control for limited purposes such as shop use, demonstration, or delivery. The plates display the letter “D” and are issued in sets.
The package typically includes:
- The main Application for Business License form
- Supplemental forms (including applicant information and child support certification)
- Instructions and notices about fees, insurance, and site requirements
You can download the current official package directly from the New Jersey MVC website:
Download New Jersey Manufacturer Registration Application Package (PDF)
Who Needs to File This Form?
This registration is required for manufacturers who:
- Manufacture motor vehicles, motorcycles, motorized bicycles, or motor-drawn vehicles
- Do business in New Jersey
- Need to operate vehicles they own or control for shop, demonstration, or delivery purposes only
It is distinct from standard vehicle registration, dealer licensing, or other New Jersey manufacturer registrations (such as those under the Department of Environmental Protection for recycled content or electronics). This package specifically covers special category manufacturer plates through the MVC Business Licensing Services Bureau.
Converters of commercial vehicles may also qualify under related provisions, but manufacturers should use the dedicated manufacturer package.
Key Requirements for New Jersey Manufacturer Registration
Applicants must meet several core requirements set by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission:
- Permanent Place of Business — You must establish and maintain a permanent place of business in New Jersey. The facility must display an exterior sign with the business name and comply with all municipal zoning and local requirements.
- Business Structure Documentation — Corporations, LLCs, and similar entities must provide a Certificate of Incorporation/Formation filed with the New Jersey Secretary of State. Foreign corporations need Authorization to do business in New Jersey.
- Tax and Identification Numbers — Provide New Jersey Sales Tax Identification Number, Unemployment Registration Number, and Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN).
- Insurance — A Certificate of Insurance showing minimum liability coverage of $100,000/$250,000 bodily injury and $25,000 property damage. The certificate holder must be listed as: NJ Motor Vehicle Commission, Business Licensing Services Bureau, P.O. Box 171, Trenton, NJ 08666-0171. The policy must cover the total number of plates requested.
- Background Information — All owners, partners, and corporate officers must disclose any criminal history, prior license suspensions or revocations, and complete fingerprint-related forms as required.
- Compliance Certification — Applicants must certify that the business location complies with all state and local laws and that all information provided is true.
Important note from the MVC: The Business Licensing Services Bureau does not accept up-front license and registration payments (except certain application fees) with the initial submission. Payment is requested only after preliminary approval and any required site inspection.
How to Complete and Submit the Manufacturer Registration Application?
Follow these steps to apply:
- Download the Package — Get the official PDF from the New Jersey MVC:
https://www.nj.gov/mvc/pdf/business/manufacturer.pdf - Complete All Forms Thoroughly — Fill out the Application for Business License, applicant personal information sheets, and child support certification. List all owners, partners, or officers. Answer every question about prior licenses, criminal history, subsidiaries, and stock ownership.
- Gather Supporting Documents — Attach copies of your Certificate of Incorporation/Formation (and foreign authorization if applicable), tax ID proofs, and any other required items.
- Mail the Completed Package — Send everything to:
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
Business Licensing Services Bureau
P.O. Box 170
225 East State Street
Trenton, NJ 08666-0170 - Await Review and Inspection — The MVC will investigate the applicant and the place of business. A site inspection may be required.
- Receive Payment Request — After preliminary approval, you will receive a notification requesting payment of the applicable fees along with final proof of insurance and any bond requirements.
- Receive License and Plates — Once payment is processed, the wall license and manufacturer plates will be mailed to the licensed location.
For questions during the process, contact the Business Licensing Services Bureau at 609-292-6500, extension 5014.
Fees Associated with Manufacturer Registration
Exact fees can change, so always confirm with the official package or the MVC. Historically, related special-category and dealer-style registrations have included a base fee for the registration certificate and sets of plates, plus additional fund contributions (Transportation Trust Fund, Traumatic Brain Injury Fund, Commission Service Fund, etc.).
Payment is not submitted with the initial application. The MVC will notify you of the precise amount after preliminary approval. Keep records of all correspondence, as it is sent to the business address on file.
Important Tips for a Successful Application
- Ensure the business location fully complies with local ordinances before applying—non-compliance is grounds for denial.
- Disclose all prior license history and any arrests or convictions completely and accurately. Incomplete or false information can lead to denial, suspension, or criminal penalties.
- Maintain the required insurance coverage continuously while plates are in use.
- Plates may only be used on vehicles owned or controlled by the manufacturer for the limited purposes allowed by law (shop, demonstration, or delivery).
- Notify the MVC immediately of any changes in business status, ownership, address, or other information that would alter answers on the application.
Where to Find Official Information and Updates?
Always rely on the official New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission sources:
- MVC Forms page: https://nj.gov/mvc/about/forms.htm
- Business Licensing / Dealership information: https://www.nj.gov/mvc/business/dealership.htm
- Direct download of the Manufacturer Registration package: https://www.nj.gov/mvc/pdf/business/manufacturer.pdf
Regulations and fees can be updated. Review the most recent version of the package and contact the Business Licensing Services Bureau for the latest guidance before submitting.
Conclusion
The New Jersey Manufacturer Registration Application Package is the essential first step for motor vehicle manufacturers who need special “D” plates to operate vehicles for legitimate business purposes in the state. By downloading the official form from the NJ MVC, carefully completing every section, providing complete supporting documentation, and following the post-approval payment process, U.S. manufacturers can achieve compliance efficiently.
Start by downloading the current package today and prepare your materials thoroughly to avoid delays. For the most accurate and up-to-date requirements, always refer to the official New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission resources linked above.