Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles is where you go to change your driver's license
The place to change your driver's license is your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, usually called the DMV. In some states it has a different name — California calls it the Department of Motor Vehicles, New York calls it the Department of Motor Vehicles, Texas calls it the Department of Public Safety — but the function is the same. You cannot change your license at a bank, post office, or police station. The DMV is the only place that issues and modifies state driver's licenses.
You can visit in person at a local DMV office, and most states also let you handle some changes by mail or online. Which option works for you depends on what you are changing — your address, name, or photo — and what your state allows.
Key Takeaways
- Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles office in person, or check their website to see if you can make the change by mail or online.
- Bring your current driver's license, proof of your new address or name (like a utility bill or marriage certificate), and any other documents your state requires.
- Address changes usually take minutes if you do them online or by mail, but in-person visits may require a wait.
- Some states charge a small fee for license changes; others do not charge for address-only updates.
- You can find your state DMV's location, hours, and required documents on its official website by searching "[your state] DMV".
Finding your state's DMV office location and hours
Search online for "[your state] Department of Motor Vehicles" or "[your state] DMV" to find the official website. The site will list every local office in your state, their addresses, phone numbers, and hours. Some states let you book an appointment online; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Calling ahead is worth doing — staff can tell you how long the wait is and confirm you have the right documents.
If you live in a rural area far from an office, some states send mobile DMV units to smaller towns on a schedule. Check the main DMV website for dates and locations near you.
What documents to bring for an address change
For an address change, bring your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable documents usually include a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and new address on it. The document typically needs to be dated within the last 60 days, though this varies by state.
Some states let you change your address online without visiting an office. Log into your DMV account on the state website, enter your new address, and pay any fee if there is one. This usually takes a few minutes and your new license arrives by mail within one to two weeks.
What documents to bring for a name change
A name change requires more documentation than an address change. Bring your current driver's license and an official document showing your legal name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. The document must be an original or certified copy — a photocopy usually will not work.
You will also need to prove your identity and residency. Bring a second form of ID (passport, state ID, or birth certificate) and proof of your current address. Some states require you to visit in person for a name change; others allow you to mail in the documents. Check your state DMV website to see which route is available to you.
What to expect during an in-person visit
Arrive with all required documents and your current license. At the DMV, you will check in at the front desk or take a number. Wait for your turn, then hand your documents to a staff member. They will verify everything is correct, take a new photo if needed, and process your change. For an address-only update, this usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. A name change or photo update may take longer.
You will pay any applicable fee — address changes are often free, while name changes or photo updates may cost $10 to $30 depending on your state. Your new license will be mailed to you within one to three weeks. You can continue using your old license until the new one arrives.
Fees and processing times by type of change
| Type of Change | Typical Fee | Processing Time | Can You Do It Online or by Mail? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Address only | Free to $10 | 1 to 3 weeks | Yes, in most states |
| Name change | $10 to $30 | 1 to 4 weeks | Varies by state; often requires in-person visit |
| New photo | $10 to $25 | 1 to 3 weeks | Usually requires in-person visit |
Fees and timelines vary significantly by state. Some states charge nothing for address changes; others charge a small fee. Processing times depend on how busy your local DMV is and whether you visit in person or mail in your request. Check your state's DMV website for exact fees and expected wait times.
What to do if you cannot visit an office in person
If you cannot reach a DMV office, check whether your state offers online or mail-in options. Many states let you change your address entirely online through their DMV website. For name changes, some states accept mailed documents, though you may need to include a notarized form or additional proof of identity.
If your state does not offer remote options and you are unable to travel, call the DMV directly. Explain your situation — some offices can make exceptions or direct you to an alternative. A few states have partnerships with other agencies, like the Secretary of State's office, that can handle certain license changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my driver's license online?
Many states let you change your address online through their DMV website. Name changes and photo updates usually require an in-person visit or mailed documents. Check your state's DMV website to see which changes you can make online.
How long does it take to get a new license after I make a change?
Your new license is typically mailed to you within one to three weeks. You can use your old license until the new one arrives. If you need it faster, some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee.
What if I moved to a different state?
You will need to get a new driver's license from your new state's DMV. You cannot straightforward change your address on an out-of-state license. Visit your new state's DMV office with your old license, proof of residency, and proof of identity.
Do I have to pay a fee to change my address?
Most states do not charge a fee for address-only changes. Name changes and photo updates usually cost $10 to $30. Check your state's DMV website for exact fees.
What if I lost my current driver's license?
You will need to report it lost and get a replacement before you can make other changes. Visit your DMV office with proof of identity and residency. The replacement process is similar to a regular license change and usually takes one to three weeks.