Where to report your address change
You report an address change to the same place that issued your driver's license — your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), called by different names in different states. In some states it is the Department of Public Safety, in others the Secretary of State's office. The easiest way to find the exact name and location is to search "[your state] DMV address change" or visit your state's official motor vehicle website directly.
Most states now let you change your address online through their DMV website without visiting an office in person. A few states still require you to visit a DMV office or mail in a form. The method available to you depends on which state issued your license.
Key Takeaways
- You can change your driver's license address online in most states through the DMV website, though a few states require you to visit an office or mail in a form.
- You will need your driver's license number and usually proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement.
- An address change on your driver's license does not automatically update your vehicle registration — you must handle those separately if you own a car.
- The process usually takes a few minutes online or a few days by mail, and there is typically no fee for changing your address.
What you need before you start
Gather your driver's license number and a document that shows your new address. Acceptable documents usually include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and new address on it. The document should be recent — most states accept anything from the last 30 to 60 days, though this varies.
If you are changing your address because you moved out of state, you will need to get a new license from your new state rather than just updating the address. Each state issues its own license, and you cannot hold a valid license from two states at once.
Changing your address online
Log into your state's DMV website and look for a link that says "change address," "update address," or "address change." You will enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to verify your identity. Then you will type in your new address and confirm it.
Some states ask you to upload a photo of your proof of address document during this step. Others do not ask for proof online but may mail you a confirmation letter to your new address to verify you actually live there. If you receive such a letter, follow the instructions on it — usually you just sign and return it, or confirm receipt online.
Once you submit the change online, you should see a confirmation message on the screen. Write down or screenshot the confirmation number. Your address change is usually complete when ready, though some states mail you an updated license with the new address printed on it within one to two weeks.
Changing your address by mail or in person
If your state does not offer online changes, read the address change form from your state DMV website or pick one up at a DMV office. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Attach a copy of your proof of address and mail it to the address listed on the form, usually a DMV processing center.
Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks. You can track the status on your state's DMV website if that option is available. If you prefer not to mail documents, visit a DMV office in person with your license and proof of address. An office visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes and the change is processed on the spot.
Updating your vehicle registration separately
Changing your driver's license address does not automatically change your vehicle registration address. If you own a car, you must update the registration separately through your state's DMV or the office that handles vehicle registration in your state.
Most states let you update your vehicle registration address online on the same website where you changed your license address. You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN), license plate number, and registration number. The process is similar to updating your license — enter your information, confirm your new address, and submit. There is usually no fee for this change either.
What happens if you do not update your address
Your driver's license remains valid even if the address on it is outdated. However, if you are pulled over by police, the mismatch between your license address and where you actually live may raise questions. More practically, if you move and do not update your address, any official mail from your state — including vehicle registration renewal notices, ticket notices, or jury summons — will go to your old address and you may miss important important date.
If you are involved in an accident or cited for a traffic violation, having an outdated address on your license can delay notification and cause confusion with insurance companies or the court system. It is simpler to update your address when you move than to deal with these complications later.
Fees and timeline
Most states charge no fee to change your address on your driver's license. A few states charge a small fee of two to five dollars, but this is uncommon. Check your state's DMV website to confirm whether there is a fee in your state.
If you change your address online, the change is usually complete within minutes. If you mail in a form, expect two to four weeks. If you visit a DMV office in person, the change is processed when ready. Some states mail you an updated license with the new address printed on it, which takes one to two weeks to arrive. In other states, your existing license remains valid with the old address printed on it, but the DMV's records show your current address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change my address if I moved within the same state?
Yes. Even if you moved to a different city in the same state, you should update your address on your driver's license. Your license remains valid, but updating the address prevents mail from going to your old address and keeps your DMV records current.
What if I do not have a utility bill or lease to prove my new address?
Other documents work too: a bank statement, mortgage statement, government mail, insurance policy, or tax return with your name and new address. If you have none of these, contact your state DMV to ask what alternative documents they accept — some states allow a notarized letter from a landlord or a signed affidavit.
Can I change my address online if I moved out of state?
No. If you moved to a different state, you must get a new driver's license from your new state's DMV rather than updating your old one. You will need to visit a DMV office in your new state with proof of residency and other required documents. Check your new state's DMV website for the full list of what to bring.
Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance?
Changing your address does not affect your driving record. Your insurance company should be notified of your move separately — contact them directly. Some insurance companies adjust rates based on location, so updating your address with them may change your premium.
How long does my old license remain valid after I move?
Your license remains valid even with an outdated address printed on it. However, you should update your address in the DMV system as soon as you move to keep official records current and may support you receive important mail.