How to Change Your Address on Your Pennsylvania Driver's License

You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at a PennDOT office

Pennsylvania allows you to update your driver's license address without getting a new card or paying a fee. The fastest method is online through the PennDOT website if you have a valid email address and your current license number. If you prefer not to use the online system, you can mail a form to PennDOT or visit a Driver License Center in person — both take longer but work just as well.

The address on your license must match your current residence within a reasonable time after you move. Pennsylvania law does not set a specific important date, but using an outdated address can cause problems with traffic tickets, vehicle registration renewals, and mail from the state. Starting the process as soon as you know your new address prevents these complications.

Key Takeaways

The online method through PennDOT's website is the fastest option and requires only your license number, email address, and new address.
If you mail the change, use Form DL-43 and send it to the PennDOT address listed on the form; processing takes two to three weeks.
You can also walk into any Driver License Center with your current license and proof of your new address to update it in person.
No fee is charged for an address change, and your existing license card remains valid — you do not receive a new one.
If you moved out of state or your license is expired, you will need to renew rather than straightforward change your address.

Changing your address online through PennDOT

Go to the PennDOT website and look for the "Change of Address" option under the Driver License section. You will need your current Pennsylvania driver's license number, your new street address, and a valid email address. The system will send a confirmation email to verify the change — you must click the link in that email within a set time frame (usually 24 hours) for the update to take effect.

This method works only if your license is currently valid and you are still a Pennsylvania resident. If your license expired more than a year ago or you have moved out of state, the online system will not process your request and you will need to renew your license instead. The online change does not issue you a new card, so your current license remains the same — only the address in the system updates.

Mailing a change-of-address form to PennDOT

read or request Form DL-43 (Change of Address) from the PennDOT website or by calling 717-787-2937. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Mail it to the address printed on the form — this is typically the PennDOT office in Harrisburg, though the form itself will show the correct mailing address.

Processing by mail takes two to three weeks from the date PennDOT receives your form. You do not need to include any documents or proof of your new address when you mail the form — your signature on the form is sufficient. Once processed, you will receive a confirmation letter at your new address. Your license card itself does not change; only the address in the state's system updates.

Updating your address in person at a Driver License Center

Visit any Driver License Center in Pennsylvania with your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and new address. The staff will verify your information and update your address on the spot.

This method is the slowest if you have to travel to a center, but it is the fastest if you are already there — the change takes effect when ready. You do not need an appointment at most centers, but you may wait in line. Your existing license card remains valid and does not need to be replaced. If you cannot find a center near you, use the PennDOT office locator on their website to find the closest location and its hours.

What documents prove your new address

PennDOT accepts documents that show your name and current address together. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) dated within the last 60 days works well. A lease agreement or mortgage statement with your name and new address also counts. Bank statements, credit card statements, and government mail (such as tax documents or benefit notices) are acceptable if they show both your name and the new address.

You do not need multiple documents — one is enough. The document does not have to be in your name alone; if you share a utility bill with a spouse or roommate, that counts as long as your name appears on it. If you are changing your address online or by mail, you do not need to submit any proof at all — the form itself is sufficient.

If your license is expired or you moved out of state

An address change is not the same as a license renewal. If your license expired more than one year ago, you cannot use the address-change process — you must renew your license instead. Renewal requires you to visit a Driver License Center in person, pass a vision test, and pay the renewal fee. The online and mail methods for address change will not work.

If you moved to another state, your Pennsylvania license is no longer valid for driving in that state. You will need to obtain a driver's license from your new state of residence. You can keep your Pennsylvania license as a form of ID, but you cannot legally drive with it outside Pennsylvania. Contact your new state's motor vehicle department to learn what documents you need to transfer or obtain a new license.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for my address change to show up in the system?

Online changes take effect within 24 hours after you click the confirmation link in your email. Mail takes two to three weeks from the date PennDOT receives your form. In-person changes at a Driver License Center take effect when ready. If you need proof of the change right away, ask for a receipt when you visit in person.

Do I get a new license card when I change my address?

No. Your existing license card remains valid and does not change. Only the address in PennDOT's system updates. You keep using the same card you have now. If you want a new card with your updated address printed on it, you would need to renew your license, which requires a fee and a visit to a Driver License Center.

What if I moved but do not have a document showing my new address?

If you are changing your address by mail or online, you do not need to submit any proof — your form or online submission is enough. If you are changing your address in person at a Driver License Center, you must bring one document showing your name and new address. If you do not have one yet, wait until you receive a utility bill, lease, or other official mail at your new address before visiting.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?

Yes. A suspended or revoked license can still have its address updated. The address change does not affect the status of your license — it only updates where PennDOT will send mail to you. You still cannot legally drive until the suspension or revocation is lifted, but you can update your address in the system.

What if I entered the wrong address by mistake?

You can change it again using any of the same methods. If you made the mistake online, you can submit another online change right away. If you mailed a form, you can mail another form or visit a Driver License Center in person to correct it. There is no penalty for correcting an address, and you can update it as many times as needed.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.