What you need to do to change your driver license
To change your driver license at the DMV, you visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles office in person, bring the documents they require for the type of change you're making, and fill out the form for that specific change. The DMV does not process driver license changes by mail or online in most states, though a few states now offer limited online updates for address changes. What counts as a "change" matters — updating your address is simpler than changing your name or correcting information on an existing license, and each has its own form and document list.
The exact process, required documents, and fees vary by state. Your state's DMV website lists what you need for your specific situation, and calling your local office before you go saves time because some offices require appointments and some accept walk-ins.
Key Takeaways
- Most driver license changes require you to visit a DMV office in person with specific documents — check your state's DMV website for the exact list before you go.
- Address changes are the simplest update and often cost nothing, while name changes require a legal document like a marriage certificate or court order.
- Some DMV offices require appointments scheduled weeks in advance, while others take walk-ins; calling ahead tells you which applies to your location.
- Processing time ranges from same-day for address changes to several weeks for name changes, depending on your state and the type of change.
Changing your address on your driver license
An address change is the fastest and cheapest update. You bring your current driver license, proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and fill out the form your state uses for address updates — often called a DL 43 or similar. Many states charge no fee for an address change, though some charge $5 to $15.
Some states now let you update your address online through their DMV portal without visiting an office. Check your state's DMV website to see if this option exists where you live. If you must visit in person, an address change usually takes minutes and you can often get a new license the same day, though some states mail it to you instead.
Changing your name on your driver license
A name change requires proof that your name legally changed. Acceptable documents include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order for name change, or adoption papers. You bring the original or certified copy of whichever document applies, your current driver license, and the name change form (often a DL 43 or DL 44 depending on your state).
Name changes usually cost $15 to $30 and take longer to process — typically two to four weeks because the DMV verifies the legal document. Some states issue a temporary license on the spot while they process the permanent one; others mail the new license to you. Call your local DMV office to ask what to expect in your state.
Correcting information on your existing license
If your license has an error — a misspelled name, wrong birth date, or incorrect eye color — you can request a correction. Bring your current license, proof of the correct information (a birth certificate for birth date, for example), and the correction form. Corrections are usually free and processed quickly, sometimes the same day.
The DMV distinguishes between a correction (fixing something that was wrong) and a change (updating something that was right but is now different). A correction does not require you to renew your license early, so you keep your current expiration date.
Getting a replacement license if yours is lost or damaged
If your license is lost, stolen, or too damaged to use, you request a replacement rather than a change. Bring your current license if you have it, proof of identity (a passport or birth certificate), proof of your address, and the replacement form. Replacement licenses usually cost $15 to $30 and are processed the same day or mailed within a week.
If your license was stolen, some states ask you to file a police report first, though not all do. Call your local DMV office to ask whether you need one before you go.
What documents to bring to the DMV
| Type of Change | Documents You Need | Typical Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Address change | Current license, proof of new address (utility bill, lease, bank statement) | $0–$15 |
| Name change | Current license, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order | $15–$30 |
| Correction of error | Current license, proof of correct information (birth certificate, etc.) | $0–$10 |
| Replacement (lost or damaged) | Proof of identity (passport, birth certificate), proof of address | $15–$30 |
Bring originals or certified copies of documents — photocopies usually are not accepted. If a document is in a language other than English, bring a certified translation along with the original. Some states also require you to bring your Social Security number or a document showing it.
How to prepare before you visit the DMV
Before you go, visit your state's DMV website and find the page for the specific change you need. read and fill out the form ahead of time if possible — this cuts your time at the office. The website also lists what documents your state requires, which varies slightly from state to state.
Call your local DMV office to ask whether you need an appointment. Many offices now require them and book weeks in advance, while others still accept walk-ins. Asking this one question before you go prevents a wasted trip. If you need an appointment, book it as soon as the office opens its calendar, usually 30 days out.
Bring more documents than you think you need. If your proof of address is borderline (an old utility bill, for example), bring a second one. The DMV can reject documents on the spot, and you cannot complete your change without the right ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my driver license by mail?
Most states require you to visit a DMV office in person. A few states now let you update your address online, and some allow name changes by mail if you include certified copies of legal documents, but this is rare. Check your state's DMV website or call your local office to see what options exist where you live.
How long does it take to get a new license after I make a change?
Address changes often take the same day or a few days if mailed. Name changes and corrections typically take two to four weeks. Replacement licenses for lost or damaged licenses take one to two weeks. Your state's DMV website lists the exact timeline for each type of change.
Do I have to pay a fee for every change?
Address changes are free in most states. Name changes, corrections, and replacements usually cost $10 to $30 depending on your state. Check your state's DMV fee schedule on their website before you go so you know what to bring.
What if I moved to a new state — do I need to change my old license?
You do not have to when ready, but you should get a license in your new state within the timeframe it requires — usually 30 to 60 days after you move. Your old license remains valid until it expires, but having a license from your current state of residence is required by law in most places.
Can I change my license information if I have an outstanding ticket or fine?
An outstanding ticket or fine does not prevent you from changing your license. However, some states will not renew a license if you owe money, so if you have unpaid traffic violations, ask your local DMV office whether they affect your ability to make changes.