Change your address in person at an Alabama DMV office or online through the state portal
You can update your driver's license address without renewing your license itself. Alabama offers two routes: an in-person visit to a Driver License Examiner's Office, or an online change through the Alabama Department of Public Safety website if you meet certain conditions. The online method is faster if you're may be able to access, but the in-person option works for everyone and takes about 15 minutes once you're called.
You do not need to pay a fee to change your address. The state treats this as a record update, not a license replacement. However, if you want a new physical card with your updated address printed on it, Alabama will issue one at no charge during the address change process — you'll receive it by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Key Takeaways
- Online address changes work only if your license is not expired, you have a valid email on file, and you can verify your identity through the state's system.
- In-person changes require your current driver's license, proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and a completed DL-43 form.
- You can find your nearest Driver License Examiner's Office on the Alabama DMV website and check wait times before you go.
- Your address change takes effect when ready at the DMV office or within one business day online, but the physical card arrives by mail.
Change your address online if your license is current
Visit the Alabama Department of Public Safety website and look for the "Online Services" section. You'll need to enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity and pull up your current record.
Online changes are available only if your license has not expired and you have a valid email address on file with the state. If your license expired more than one year ago, you must renew it in person before you can change your address online. If you've never provided an email to Alabama DMV, you'll need to visit an office in person.
Once you've verified your identity, enter your new address exactly as you want it to appear on your license. Review the information carefully — the state will not mail you a corrected card if you make a typo. Submit the change and you'll receive a confirmation email. Your address updates in the system within one business day, though the physical card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail.
Change your address in person at a Driver License Examiner's Office
Bring your current driver's license, proof of your new address, and a completed DL-43 form (process for Alabama Driver License). You can read the DL-43 from the Alabama DMV website or pick one up at any Driver License Examiner's Office. The form asks for your name, date of birth, new address, and signature — it takes two minutes to fill out.
Proof of your new address must be an original document (not a photocopy) dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and new address. A piece of mail from your employer or a credit card statement will not work. If you've just moved and don't have a dated document yet, ask the office staff what temporary proof they will accept — some offices will take a signed statement from a landlord or a utility company confirmation email.
Find your nearest Driver License Examiner's Office on the Alabama DMV website by entering your county or city. Many offices now show estimated wait times online. Walk in during business hours — most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have reduced Saturday hours. You do not need an appointment. Once you're called, hand the staff member your license, proof of address, and the completed DL-43. They'll update your record in the system and issue you a new card on the spot if you request one, or you can keep your current card and receive the updated one by mail.
What happens after you change your address
Your address change is recorded in the Alabama DMV system when ready after you complete the transaction, whether you did it online or in person. This means law enforcement, the courts, and other agencies that check your license will see your new address right away. Your vehicle registration does not automatically update — you'll need to change that separately through the Alabama Department of Revenue if your address on your registration differs from your license.
If you requested a new physical card during your address change, it will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The card is mailed to your new address, so make sure the address you provided is correct. If you didn't request a new card and kept your old one, your old card is still valid — it just shows your previous address. You can continue using it as your ID, though you may want to carry proof of your new address (like a utility bill) if you're asked to verify where you live.
If your license is expired or you need a new card when ready
If your driver's license expired less than one year ago, you can renew it and change your address at the same time in person at a Driver License Examiner's Office. Bring your expired license, proof of your new address, and a completed DL-44 form (process for Alabama Driver License Renewal). The renewal fee is $25 and covers a four-year license. You'll receive your new card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
If your license expired more than one year ago, you must complete a full renewal in person, which includes an eye test and a new photo. This takes longer than a straightforward address change and costs $25. You cannot renew online if your license has been expired for more than one year. Visit a Driver License Examiner's Office with your expired license, proof of your new address, proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your Alabama residency (utility bill or lease).
If you need to use your license before the new card arrives by mail, your old card remains valid for identification purposes. You can also request a temporary paper license at the office, though not all offices issue them — call ahead to ask.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address on my driver's license if I move?
Alabama law requires you to notify the DMV of a new address within a reasonable time after you move. There is no specific important date stated in the law, but updating within 30 days is considered reasonable. Driving with an outdated address on your license is not illegal, but it can cause problems if you're pulled over or need to use your license as proof of residency.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
Yes. A suspended or revoked license can still be updated for address changes. However, you cannot drive with a suspended or revoked license, and you cannot renew it until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Visit a Driver License Examiner's Office in person to change your address on a suspended or revoked license.
What if I don't have a utility bill or lease to prove my new address?
Call your nearest Driver License Examiner's Office before you visit and ask what alternative documents they will accept. Some offices accept bank statements, mortgage statements, or government mail. A few offices may accept a signed statement from a landlord or a letter from your employer on company letterhead. Having options ready before you go saves a trip back home.
Will my vehicle registration automatically update when I change my driver's license address?
No. Your vehicle registration is a separate record with the Alabama Department of Revenue. You must change your registration address separately through the Revenue Department's website or by mail. Check the Alabama Department of Revenue website for instructions on updating your vehicle registration.
How long does it take to receive my new card by mail?
Alabama typically mails new cards within 7 to 10 business days of your address change. The card is sent to the new address you provided, so make sure it's correct before you submit. If you don't receive your card within two weeks, contact the Driver License Examiner's Office where you made the change and provide your confirmation number or transaction date.