What documents you need to bring

To update your address at the DMV, you need two things: proof of your new address and your current driver's license. That is the baseline for every state, though some ask for a third document depending on your situation.

Proof of address means a document that shows your name and your new street address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water), a lease or mortgage statement, or a bank statement all work. The document usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days, though this varies by state — check your state DMV website to confirm the time window they accept. A piece of mail from a government agency, your employer, or an insurance company also counts in most places.

Your current driver's license is required so the DMV can look up your record and make the change. Bring the physical card, not a photo of it.

When you need a second proof document

Some states ask for a second form of ID if you are changing your address at the same time as renewing your license, or if your current license is expired. This second document proves your identity — a passport, birth certificate, Social Security card, or military ID typically works. Check your state's DMV website under "address change" or "update address" to see whether your situation requires it.

If you are also changing your name at the same time as your address, you will need legal proof of the name change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. This is separate from the address proof and identity proof.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring your current driver's license and one document showing your name and new address dated within the last 60 days (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement).
  • Some states require a second form of ID if your license is expired or if you are renewing at the same time as changing your address.
  • If you are changing your name along with your address, bring legal proof of the name change such as a marriage certificate or court order.
  • Your state DMV website lists the exact documents accepted and any time limits on how recent they must be.

How to submit your documents

You can update your address in person at a DMV office, by mail in most states, or online if your state offers it. In-person is fastest — you hand over your documents, the DMV staff verify them on the spot, and your new license is usually ready in a few minutes or mailed to you within one to two weeks depending on the state.

If you mail your documents, include a completed address-change form (read it from your state DMV website), your current license, your proof of address, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Mail it to the address listed on the form. Processing by mail takes longer — typically two to four weeks — and if the DMV rejects any document, you will not find out until they send it back.

Online address changes are available in some states and are the fastest option when available. You log in with your license number and personal information, upload a photo of your proof-of-address document, and confirm your new address. The DMV mails your updated license within one to two weeks.

What happens to your old address on your license

When you update your address, the DMV cancels your old license and issues a new one with the updated address. You do not keep both. The new license has a new expiration date in most states — it does not just update the address on your existing card.

The old license becomes invalid once the new one is issued. If you receive the new license in the mail, destroy the old one or return it to the DMV if they ask you to. Some states include a prepaid envelope for returning the old license.

Fees and processing time

Most states charge a small fee to update your address — typically between $5 and $20 — though some states do it free if you are only changing your address and not renewing. Check your state DMV website for the exact fee.

Processing time depends on how you submit: in-person usually takes minutes to a few days, mail takes two to four weeks, and online takes one to two weeks. If you need your license quickly, in-person is your fastest option.

If your proof of address document is in someone else's name

A utility bill or lease in a spouse's or parent's name usually does not work on its own, because it does not show your name. However, some states accept a household bill (electric, gas, water) in a spouse's name if you bring a marriage certificate or joint tax return showing you live at that address together. Other states require the document to have your name on it, period.

Call your state DMV or check their website before you go in. If the document you have will not work, ask what alternative documents they accept — a bank statement in your name, a letter from your employer on letterhead, or a government notice addressed to you at the new address are often accepted instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update my address online in every state?

No. Online address changes are available in about half of U.S. states. Check your state DMV website to see if the option is offered. If it is not, you can update in person or by mail.

What if I do not have a utility bill or lease in my name?

A bank statement, credit card statement, or letter from your employer on company letterhead all count as proof of address in most states. Some states also accept a government notice (tax notice, voter registration card, court document) addressed to you at your new address. Call your DMV to confirm what they will accept.

Do I have to update my address right away, or can I wait?

You are not legally required to update when ready, but most states ask you to do so within a certain time frame — often 10 to 30 days after you move. Updating promptly keeps your license current and prevents confusion if you are stopped by police or need to show ID.

Will I get a new license number when I change my address?

No. Your license number stays the same. Only your address and the license card itself change. The new card will have a new expiration date in most states.

What if I moved but do not have any documents yet showing my new address?

Wait until you have at least one document in your name at the new address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. This usually takes a few weeks after you move. If you need your license updated urgently, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on letterhead confirming your address, which some states accept as temporary proof.