The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission has rolled out handheld Pocketalk translation devices at every agency across the state, enabling real-time, two-way conversations in more than 80 languages. The devices are also traveling with NJMVC Mobile Units on visits statewide.
By bridging language gaps more effectively, we are affirming our commitment to improving service for every New Jerseyan and making sure all of our customers are supported, respected, and understood.— Rosalie Johnson, Acting NJMVC Chief Administrator
Why this matters
New Jersey ranks among the most linguistically diverse states in the country. For the nearly 1.2 million residents who report limited English proficiency, navigating the DMV has often meant relying on a family member to translate — or avoiding the trip altogether. Pocketalk devices make those workarounds a thing of the past.
How it works
Each agency and mobile unit is outfitted with between five and twelve Pocketalk devices. Staff and customers simply speak into the device in their own language and receive an instant spoken translation. No apps, no setup — just clear communication.
Part of a larger effort
The Pocketalk rollout builds on years of language access work at the NJMVC, including:
- An award-winning multilingual website
- Driver manuals published in six languages
- Knowledge tests offered in more than a dozen languages
- A bilingual English/Spanish phone support system
Following a successful pilot in fall 2025, the statewide launch has been met with positive feedback from both customers and staff. For more information, visit NJMVC.gov.