The documents the DMV actually requires for an address change
An address change at the DMV requires two things: proof of your new address and proof of your identity. Most states accept a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement as proof of address, and a driver's license or state ID as proof of identity. You do not need to bring your old license or ID — just the documents that prove where you live now and who you are.
The exact documents vary by state, and some states have stricter rules than others. A few states accept fewer documents than most; a few accept more. The best approach is to check your state's DMV website before you go, because showing up with the wrong papers means a wasted trip.
Key Takeaways
- Proof of address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement) and proof of identity (driver's license or state ID) are the two core documents every state requires.
- Proof of address must show your name and current address, and most documents must be dated within the last 60 days.
- Your current driver's license or state ID is the easiest proof of identity, but a passport or military ID works in most states.
- Some states accept documents by mail or online, while others require you to appear in person; check your state DMV website to see which method is available.
What counts as proof of your new address
Proof of address must show both your name and your new street address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most widely accepted document across all states. A lease agreement or mortgage statement also works in every state. Some states also accept a bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail with your name and address on it.
The document must be recent — most states require it to be dated within the last 60 days, though some allow up to 90 days. If you just moved and do not have a utility bill yet, a signed lease or a mortgage statement works just as well and does not have the same age requirement. If you are moving into someone else's home, some states accept a notarized letter from the homeowner or landlord confirming you live there, though this varies.
Documents that do not count include a piece of mail addressed to you (even if it has your address), a cell phone bill, or a credit card statement — these do not prove you actually live at that address. Avoid bringing anything that only shows a mailing address rather than a residential address.
What counts as proof of your identity
Your current driver's license or state ID card is the standard proof of identity. If you do not have either, a U.S. passport, military ID, or passport card works in most states. Some states also accept a tribal ID or a permanent resident card (green card).
The document must be current and not expired in most states, though a few states accept an expired ID if it is only recently expired. If your ID is lost or stolen, bring a police report along with your proof of address — most DMV offices can issue a replacement without the original document.
Documents you may need if your situation is different
If you changed your name through marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the document that proves the name change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are changing the address on a commercial vehicle registration or a vehicle registered to a business, bring the business registration or articles of incorporation.
If someone else is changing the address on your behalf (a parent for a minor, or a guardian), that person must bring their own proof of identity plus a document showing they have authority to act for you — a birth certificate for a minor, or a power of attorney or guardianship order for an adult. Some states require the vehicle owner to sign a form authorizing the other person to make the change.
If you are a non-citizen with a valid visa or work permit, bring your passport and the visa or permit along with your proof of address. The rules for non-citizens vary significantly by state, so check your state DMV website before you go.
How to find out what your specific state requires
Every state DMV publishes a list of accepted documents on its website. Search "[your state] DMV address change documents" or go directly to your state's DMV site and look for "address change" or "update address." The page will show you exactly which documents are accepted and whether you can make the change online, by mail, or only in person.
Some states have different rules depending on whether you are changing the address on a driver's license, a state ID, or a vehicle registration — these are sometimes listed separately on the DMV website. If the website is unclear, call your local DMV office directly. They can tell you in one call whether the documents you have will work.
What to bring to the DMV office
Bring the original documents, not copies. Most DMV offices will not accept photocopies of your proof of address or identity. Bring your current driver's license or ID even if you are changing the address on it — the office will need to see it to verify your identity before they process the change.
Bring any additional documents your state requires (name change certificate, business registration, power of attorney, etc.). If you are mailing the change instead of going in person, check whether your state requires notarized copies or certified copies of any documents. Some states do; most do not.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address online instead of going to the DMV?
Many states now allow address changes online through their DMV website, but not all. Some states allow online changes only for driver's licenses, not vehicle registrations. Check your state DMV website to see if online changes are available. If they are, you typically upload photos of your documents rather than bringing originals.
What if I do not have a utility bill or lease yet?
A mortgage statement works if you own the home. If you are renting and do not have a lease yet, ask your landlord for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your move-in date and address. Some states also accept a notarized affidavit from someone who lives with you. Call your DMV office to ask what they will accept in your situation.
Do I need to bring my old address proof or old registration?
No. The DMV only needs proof of your new address and proof of your identity. You do not need to bring anything showing your old address. Your current driver's license or ID is enough to prove who you are.
What if my proof of address has a different name on it than my ID?
If the names do not match, bring a document proving the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). If you recently married and changed your name but the utility bill is still in your old name, bring both the bill and the marriage certificate. The DMV will update your address and your name at the same time.
Can I change my address by mail?
Some states allow address changes by mail, but most require you to appear in person or use the online system. Check your state DMV website to see if mail-in changes are available. If they are, the website will tell you which documents to send and whether they need to be notarized or certified.