Where to go to change your driver license
You change your driver license at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which may also be called the Secretary of State's office, Bureau of Motor Vehicles, or Division of Motor Vehicles depending on your state. The fastest way to find your local office is to search "[your state] DMV locations" or visit your state's official DMV website directly — each state maintains a location finder that shows hours, services offered, and whether you need an appointment.
Some states let you handle certain changes online or by mail, which saves a trip. Others require you to appear in person. Before you go, check your state's website to see which changes can be done remotely and which require a visit. If an in-person visit is required, many states now use appointment systems to reduce wait times — you book a specific time slot rather than showing up and waiting in line.
If you cannot reach your state's website or need to speak to someone, calling your local DMV office directly is faster than searching online. Have your current license number ready when you call, and ask what documents you need to bring for your specific change.
Key Takeaways
- Your state's DMV website has a location finder that shows which office serves your address and whether appointments are required.
- Some driver license changes can be done online or by mail in most states, while others require you to appear in person with documents.
- Bring your current license, proof of your new information (such as a marriage certificate or address verification), and a form of ID if your current license is expired.
- Processing times vary by state and by change type, but most in-person changes are completed the same day or within a few weeks if done by mail.
What documents you need to bring
The documents required depend on what you are changing. For a name change, bring your current license, a certified copy of the document proving the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order), and a form of ID. For an address change, bring your current license and a document showing your new address — this can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Some states accept a government letter with your name and address.
If your license is expired, bring an additional form of ID such as a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card. If you are changing your license class (for example, adding a motorcycle endorsement), you may need to pass a written test, vision test, or driving test depending on your state and the type of endorsement. Ask your DMV office what tests explore to your situation when you call or check online.
Bring the original documents or certified copies, not photocopies, unless your state specifically says photocopies are acceptable. Call ahead to confirm the exact list for your change, because requirements vary by state and sometimes by office.
How long the process takes
If you change your license in person at the DMV, you typically receive your new license the same day or within a few days. The office will take your photo and print your new license on the spot in most states, though a few states mail the license to you after processing. Ask the DMV staff when you arrive whether your new license will be ready before you leave.
If you handle the change by mail, processing usually takes two to four weeks from the time the DMV receives your documents. Some states offer expedited mail service for an additional fee if you need the license faster. Check your state's website or call to see whether expedited service is available and what it costs.
The time can be longer if the DMV needs to verify information with another agency, such as a court or vital records office. This sometimes happens with name changes. If your documents are incomplete or unclear, the DMV will contact you to ask for more information, which adds time to the process.
Changing your address without visiting the DMV
Many states let you change your address online through the DMV website without going to an office. You log in with your license number and date of birth, enter your new address, and pay a small fee (usually $5 to $15). Your updated license is mailed to you within two to three weeks. This is the fastest option if your state offers it and you do not need your license when ready.
Some states also accept address changes by mail. You fill out a form, include proof of your new address, and mail it to the address listed on the form. Processing takes longer than online — typically three to four weeks — because the DMV has to receive and process the mail.
If you are moving out of state, you will need to get a new license from your new state's DMV. You cannot straightforward change the address on your current license. Most states require you to get a new license within 30 to 60 days of moving, though the exact important date varies. Check your new state's DMV website for requirements and whether you can do it online or by mail.
Changing your name on your license
To change your name on your license, you must bring a certified copy of the document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will not accept a photocopy or an uncertified copy. If you got married or divorced, order a certified copy from the county clerk's office where the event was recorded. If you changed your name by court order, bring the certified court order.
You must appear in person at the DMV to change your name; most states do not allow this by mail or online. Bring your current license, the certified document, and a second form of ID if your current license is expired. The DMV will take a new photo and issue your new license with your updated name, usually the same day.
If you changed your name but have not yet updated your Social Security card, do that before or after your DMV visit. Your Social Security card does not have to match your license, but having them aligned makes other transactions easier. You can update your Social Security card at your local Social Security office or by mail.
What to do if your license is lost or stolen
If your license is lost or stolen, you need a replacement, not just a change. Report the loss to your local police department if it was stolen — you may need the police report number for the DMV. Then go to your DMV office or explore online if your state offers it. You will need to prove your identity with a passport, birth certificate, or other government ID.
A replacement license costs more than a regular renewal in most states (typically $10 to $30 extra). Processing is usually faster for replacements than for regular renewals because the DMV prioritizes them. If you explore in person, you may get your license the same day. If you explore by mail, expect two to three weeks.
Once you receive your new license, check the number and information carefully. If anything is wrong, contact the DMV when ready to request a correction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment to change my driver license?
It depends on your state and your local DMV office. Many states now require appointments for in-person visits, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check your state's DMV website or call your local office to find out. If appointments are required and none are available, some offices add walk-in times on certain days or allow you to join a waitlist.
Can I change my address online if I do not have a computer?
Yes. If your state offers online address changes, you can also do it by mail or in person at the DMV. You can also ask a friend or family member to help you do it online, or visit a public library, which often has free computer access. Some DMV offices have computers available for this purpose as well.
What if I moved to a new state — can I keep my old license?
No. Most states require you to get a new license within 30 to 60 days of moving, though the exact important date varies. Driving on an out-of-state license after you have established residency in a new state can result in a fine. Check your new state's DMV website for the important date and what documents you need to bring.
How much does it cost to change my driver license?
The cost varies by state and by the type of change. Address changes are usually free or cost $5 to $10. Name changes typically cost $15 to $30. Replacement licenses for lost or stolen licenses cost more than regular changes. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee for your situation.
Can I change my license if it is expired?
Yes, but you will need a second form of ID such as a passport or birth certificate because your expired license cannot be used as your only proof of identity. Bring both your expired license and the other ID to the DMV. You may also need to pass a vision test or written test depending on how long it has been expired and your state's rules.