What to bring when you change your address
You need two things to change your address at the DMV: proof of your current address and your current driver's license. Most states will not process an address change without both. The address proof must show your name and your new address, and it must be recent — typically issued within the last 60 days, though this varies by state.
You do not need to take a new photo, pass a vision test, or renew your license early. An address change is a transaction that takes a few minutes and costs nothing in most states. Some states charge a small fee, usually under $10, but many waive it entirely for address-only changes.
Key Takeaways
- Bring your current driver's license and one document that shows your name and new address issued within the last 60 days.
- Acceptable address proofs include utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, and government mail — but not personal checks or credit card statements.
- You can change your address in person at any DMV office, by mail in most states, or online if your state offers it.
- The transaction is free in most states and does not require a new photo or vision test.
Documents that prove your address
Your address proof must be an official document with your name printed on it and your new address. A utility bill in your name works in every state. So do lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, and insurance documents. Bank statements and credit card statements are accepted in most states but not all — call your DMV before bringing one.
Government mail counts in many states: voter registration cards, tax documents from the IRS, benefits statements from Social Security or unemployment, and official mail from your state or local government. Paychecks and pay stubs work in some states if they show your address. Personal checks do not work, and neither do credit card statements in states that are strict about the source.
The document must be recent. Most states require it to be dated within 60 days of when you submit it, though a few allow 90 days. If you just moved and your utility bill still shows your old address, bring a lease or mortgage document instead — those are dated when you signed them, not when they arrive.
Your current driver's license
Bring the physical license itself, not a copy. The DMV needs to see the original to verify it is valid and to record which license number is being updated. If your license is expired, most states will still let you change the address, but you may need to renew it at the same time — and that will cost more and require a new photo.
If you have lost your license, you cannot change the address alone. You will need to report it lost and request a replacement at the same time, which requires additional documents and fees. Contact your state DMV before you go to find out what you need to bring.
How to submit your documents
In person is the fastest route. Walk into any DMV office with your license and address proof, fill out the address change form (usually a one-page slip), and hand both to the clerk. You will get a receipt and your license back with the new address printed on it, or a temporary paper document if the new license needs to be mailed. This takes 10 to 15 minutes in most cases.
By mail works in most states. read the address change form from your state DMV website, print it, sign it, and mail it with copies of your license and address proof. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you want your license returned by mail. Processing takes two to four weeks. Some states charge a small fee for mail-in changes; others do not.
Online is available in about half of U.S. states. Log into your DMV account, upload photos of your license and address proof, and submit the form. You will receive confirmation by email, and your new license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. This option is free in most states that offer it.
What happens after you submit
If you went in person, your address is updated when ready. You will see the new address on your license right away, or on the temporary paper document you receive if the physical license is being mailed. If you submitted by mail or online, your address is updated once the DMV processes your documents, which takes one to four weeks depending on your state's workload.
You can check the status of a mail or online submission by logging into your DMV account or calling your state DMV. Some states send email updates automatically. Until your new license arrives, your old license is still valid for driving — the address on it does not matter for that purpose.
Common reasons documents get rejected
The most common rejection is bringing an address proof that is too old. If your document is dated more than 60 days before you submit it, the DMV will ask for a newer one. Utility bills, bank statements, and lease agreements are straightforward to replace; if you do not have a recent one, ask your utility company, bank, or landlord for a new copy or a letter on their letterhead.
The second common issue is a mismatch between the name on your license and the name on your address proof. If you recently married, divorced, or changed your name, your license and address proof may not match. Bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change, and you may need to update your license name at the same time — which requires additional documents and fees.
Bringing a copy instead of the original license is also a reason for rejection. The DMV needs to see and scan the physical license. Photocopies are not accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address online if I just moved out of state?
No. You must change your address in the state where your license was issued. If you moved to a new state, you will eventually need to get a new license from that state, but you can update your address in your original state first. Some states allow you to do this by mail or online even after you have moved.
What if my name on my license does not match my address proof?
You will need to update your license name at the same time. Bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order along with your address proof and license. This takes longer and may cost more than an address-only change.
Do I need an appointment to change my address in person?
It depends on your state. Some DMVs accept walk-ins for address changes; others require an appointment. Check your state DMV website or call ahead to find out. Address changes usually have shorter wait times than other transactions.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
Yes, but you may have to renew it at the same time, which requires a new photo and vision test. Call your state DMV first to ask whether you can change the address alone or if renewal is required.
How long does it take to get my new license in the mail?
If you submitted by mail or online, expect two to four weeks. Some states are faster; others take longer depending on volume. You can check the status through your DMV account or by calling the DMV directly.