You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at the DMV

California lets you update your driver license address without getting a new card. The fastest way is online through the DMV website if you have a valid email and your current license number. If you prefer mail or need to do it in person, both options work — mail takes about two weeks, and in-person appointments are usually available within days.

You do not need to pass a test or provide new documents for an address change. The DMV straightforward updates their records and mails you a replacement card with your new address printed on it. Your old license stays valid until the replacement arrives.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method through the DMV website is fastest and requires only your license number and email address.
  • If you mail your request, include a completed form DL 43 and proof of your new address, and expect the new card in about two weeks.
  • In-person changes at a DMV office take about 15 minutes and require your current license and one document proving your new address.
  • Your old license remains valid while you wait for the replacement card to arrive in the mail.
  • You must update your address within 10 days of moving to a new California residence.

Changing your address online through the DMV website

Go to dmv.ca.gov and look for the "Address Change" option under the "Licenses and ID" section. You will need your current driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address. The DMV will send you a confirmation link — click it within 24 hours to complete the change.

Online changes are processed within one business day, and your replacement card ships within five to seven business days. This is the fastest method if you want to avoid a trip to the DMV office. You can track your replacement card's status on the same website once it has been mailed.

Mailing your address change to the DMV

read and print form DL 43 from the DMV website, fill in your new address, and sign it. Include one document that proves you live at your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days all work. Mail both to the address listed on the form.

Processing takes about two weeks from the date the DMV receives your envelope. There is no fee for an address change. Your replacement card will arrive by mail at your new address. Keep your old license until the new one arrives, since it remains valid during this time.

Changing your address in person at a DMV office

Make an appointment through the DMV website or call 1-800-777-0133. Bring your current driver license and one document proving your new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement from the last 60 days). The transaction takes about 15 minutes.

You will receive your replacement card in the mail within five to seven business days. There is no fee. If you need your new address on your license when ready for identification purposes, ask the DMV staff — some offices can issue a temporary paper document while you wait for the card.

What counts as proof of your new address

The DMV accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. Utility bills (electric, gas, water), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, and bank or credit card statements all work. Insurance documents with your new address are also acceptable.

The document must be an original or certified copy — a photo of a bill or a screenshot does not work. If the document is in someone else's name but shows your address (for example, a spouse's utility bill), bring a second document that connects you to that person, such as a marriage certificate or joint bank statement.

Timeline and what to expect after you request a change

Online changes process within one business day. Mail takes about two weeks. In-person changes are when ready — you walk out with confirmation, and your card arrives by mail within five to seven business days. Your old license stays valid the entire time, so you can use it for identification while waiting.

The DMV mails your replacement card to your new address. If you do not receive it within 10 business days of your request, contact the DMV through their website or call 1-800-777-0133. They can check the status and remail it if needed.

If you moved out of state or lost your license

If you no longer live in California, you cannot use the address change process — you will need to surrender your California license and get a license in your new state. Contact that state's DMV for their requirements.

If your license is lost or stolen, an address change will not help. Instead, you need to request a replacement license through the DMV website, by mail, or in person. That process is separate from an address change and may require additional documents depending on the circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my address if I moved within California?

Yes. California law requires you to update your address within 10 days of moving. The DMV can issue a citation if you do not, though enforcement is uncommon. Updating your address keeps your registration and insurance records aligned with your license.

Can I change my address without going to the DMV?

Yes. The online method through dmv.ca.gov is the fastest and requires no office visit. Mailing form DL 43 with proof of address also works and takes about two weeks. Both are free.

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

No. Your license number stays the same. Only the address printed on your card changes. Your old license remains valid until the replacement arrives.

What if my new address is not yet on any official documents?

Contact your utility company, bank, or landlord and ask them to send you a statement or letter showing your new address. Most can do this within a few days. If you are in temporary housing, a lease or rental agreement works even if it is brand new.

Can I change my address online if I do not have email?

No. The online method requires a valid email address to receive the confirmation link. Use the mail or in-person option instead. Both require only your current license and proof of your new address.