You can change your NC driver's license address online through the NC Division of Motor Vehicles website, but only if your license is current and you have not moved out of state
North Carolina allows you to update your address online without visiting a DMV office, as long as your driver's license has not expired and you still live in North Carolina. The process takes about 10 minutes and costs $5. You will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address to complete the transaction.
If your license has expired, you have moved out of state, or you need to change your name at the same time, you cannot use the online method. Those situations require an in-person visit to a DMV office or a mail-in request with supporting documents.
Key Takeaways
- The NC DMV online address change costs $5 and works only if your current license is not expired and you still live in North Carolina.
- You will receive a new license card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days after you complete the online transaction.
- If your license is expired or you have moved out of state, you must visit a DMV office in person or mail in a request with proof of residency.
- The online system is available 24 hours a day, but you should allow time for mail delivery before you need the updated card.
What you need before you start the online process
Gather these items before you log into the NC DMV website: your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, your new address, and a valid email address. The system will ask you to confirm your identity using this information, so have it ready.
You do not need to print anything or upload documents for an address-only change. The entire transaction happens on the website, and you will receive a confirmation email when ready after you submit the request.
Steps to change your address online
Go to the NC Division of Motor Vehicles website and look for the "Online Services" section. Click on the link for address changes. You will be taken to a find page where you enter your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will pull up your current information and ask you to confirm it.
Enter your new address in the fields provided. Double-check the spelling and zip code, because errors on your new card will require another visit or another fee to correct. Review the summary of changes, then proceed to payment. The $5 fee is charged to a debit or credit card at that time.
After you submit payment, you will see a confirmation number on the screen. Write it down or take a screenshot. You will also receive a confirmation email within a few minutes. Your new license card will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days.
When you cannot use the online method
If your driver's license expired more than one year ago, the online system will not let you proceed. You will need to renew your license in person at a DMV office or by mail. If your license expired less than one year ago, you may be able to renew and change your address at the same time online, but the system will tell you if that is not an option for your specific situation.
If you have moved to another state, you cannot use the NC online system. You will need to obtain a driver's license from your new state. If you are moving out of state soon but still live in North Carolina, you can change your address online now and then explore for a new state's license after you move.
If you need to change your name at the same time as your address, you must visit a DMV office in person or submit a mail-in request. Name changes require proof of the legal change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The online system does not handle name changes.
What happens after you submit your online request
The NC DMV processes online address changes within one business day. Your new license card is printed and mailed to your new address. Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days, though it can take longer during holidays or if your address is rural.
Until your new card arrives, your old license is still valid for identification purposes. If you need to prove your new address before the card arrives, you can print your confirmation email or bring a utility bill or lease agreement with your new address on it.
Alternatives if the online method does not work for you
If you cannot use the online system, you have two other options: visit a DMV office in person or mail in a request. An in-person visit takes about 30 minutes and costs $5, the same as the online fee. You will receive your new card when ready if you have a digital photo on file, or within 7 to 10 business days if a new photo is taken.
To mail in an address change, read the process for Duplicate License form (DL 43) from the NC DMV website. Fill it out, sign it, and mail it to the address listed on the form along with a copy of proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. Include a check or money order for $5. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks after the DMV receives your request.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my new license card after I change my address online?
The NC DMV processes your request within one business day, and your new card is mailed to your new address. Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact the DMV with your confirmation number.
Can I change my address online if my license expires in the next few months?
Yes, as long as your license is not currently expired, you can change your address online. The expiration date does not affect the online address change process. When your license does expire, you will renew it at that time.
What if I made a mistake on my new address after I submitted it online?
Contact the NC DMV when ready with your confirmation number. If they have not yet printed your card, they may be able to correct the address. If the card has already been printed with the wrong address, you will need to pay another $5 fee to request a corrected card.
Do I need a new photo for an online address change?
No. An online address change uses the photo from your current license. Your new card will have the same photo as your old one, just with the updated address printed on it.
Can I use the online system to change my address if I just moved to North Carolina from another state?
No. If you are new to North Carolina, you must visit a DMV office in person to obtain a North Carolina driver's license. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of residency in North Carolina, and proof of your Social Security number.