The cost of changing your driver's license varies by state, from around $20 to $100 depending on what you're changing and where you live.

Most states charge a single fee to reissue a license — whether you're updating your name, address, photo, or all three. Some states bundle these into one price; others charge separately for a name change versus an address change. A few states offer free address updates if you change it online or by mail, but charge a fee if you go in person or need a new photo.

The fee also depends on whether you're renewing at the same time. If your license is expiring soon anyway, some states let you combine the reissue fee with the renewal fee. Others treat them as two separate transactions. The best way to know your exact cost is to check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website or call their main line — they can tell you the fee for your specific situation in one conversation.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states charge between $20 and $100 to reissue a driver's license, but the exact amount depends on your state and what you're changing.
  • Some states offer free address changes online or by mail, while others charge a fee regardless of the method.
  • If your license is expiring soon, you may be able to combine the reissue fee with your renewal fee rather than paying both separately.
  • Your state's DMV website or phone line can tell you the exact cost for your situation before you go in or submit anything.

Why the cost varies so much between states

Each state sets its own fees for driver's license services, so there's no national standard. A name change in one state might cost $15, while the same change in another costs $75. Some states also charge differently depending on how long your new license will be valid — a license good for four years costs less to reissue than one good for eight years.

States also differ on whether they charge for specific types of changes. A few states charge nothing for address updates done online or by mail, treating it as a straightforward record change. Others charge the same fee whether you're changing your address or your name, because both require a new physical card to be printed and mailed to you.

What you'll pay for a name change

A name change — whether from marriage, divorce, or a legal name change — typically costs the same as any other reissue in your state. This usually falls in the $20 to $60 range, though some states charge more. You'll need to bring proof of the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order from a name change proceeding.

A few states charge a separate, smaller fee just to update your name in their system without issuing a new physical card, but this is uncommon. Most require you to get a new card because the name on the front has to match your current legal name.

What you'll pay for an address change

An address change is often the cheapest reissue option, or sometimes free. Many states let you update your address online or by mail at no cost — you just notify the DMV of your new address and they update their records. Your current license remains valid; you don't get a new card unless you request one.

If you want a new card printed with your new address on it, some states charge a small fee (often $10 to $25) to reissue it. Others include the reissue in their standard fee. Check your state's DMV website to see whether a new card is required or optional, and whether there's a charge either way.

Combining a reissue with license renewal

If your license is expiring within the next few months and you also need to change your name or address, you may be able to handle both at once. Some states let you pay a single combined fee that covers both the reissue and the renewal. Others charge you the reissue fee plus the renewal fee as two separate line items.

A few states actually save you money this way — the combined fee is less than paying for both separately. Others charge the same total either way. It's worth asking the DMV whether combining them saves you money before you submit your request, because the answer changes by state.

How to find out your exact cost

The fastest way is to visit your state's DMV website and look for a fee schedule or cost calculator. Most states list their fees clearly, broken down by service type. If the website doesn't make it obvious, call your state's DMV main line and describe exactly what you need — a name change, an address change, a renewal, or a combination — and they'll tell you the total cost.

Some states also let you start the process online and see the fee before you pay anything. This is helpful if you're unsure whether you need a new card or just a record update, because the fee difference can be significant. You can also ask whether paying online, by mail, or in person costs the same, since a few states charge differently depending on the method.

Payment methods and where to pay

Most states accept payment by credit card, debit card, or check, though the accepted methods vary depending on whether you're paying online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. Online payment is usually the fastest and most straightforward. By mail, you typically send a check along with your process and supporting documents. In person, you can usually pay with cash, card, or check.

Some states charge a small processing fee if you pay by credit card online — usually $1 to $3 — so paying by debit card or check might save you a few dollars. This is worth checking before you submit payment if you're trying to keep costs down.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay to change my address if I'm not getting a new card?

Many states let you update your address in their system for free — you just notify them and your current license remains valid. However, if you want a new card printed with your new address, some states charge a reissue fee. Check your state's DMV website to see whether updating your address alone is free or costs money.

What if I'm changing my name and my address at the same time?

Most states charge one reissue fee that covers both changes, not two separate fees. You'll need to bring proof of both the name change and your new address. Ask your DMV whether you can submit both requests together or if you need to handle them separately.

Can I change my license information online, or do I have to go to the DMV office?

It depends on your state and what you're changing. Many states let you update your address online for free. Name changes almost always require you to go in person or mail in documents, because you need to show proof of the legal change. Check your state's website to see which services are available online.

Will I have to pay again if I renew my license later?

No. Once you've paid to reissue your license with the new information, that information stays on file. When your license expires and you renew it, you'll only pay the renewal fee. You won't be charged again for the name or address change unless you change it again.

What happens if I lose my license after paying to change it?

If you lose your license, you'll need to pay a replacement fee, which is usually separate from the reissue fee you already paid. The replacement fee covers printing and mailing a new card with the same information. Check your state's DMV website for the replacement fee amount.