Whether you can change your address online depends on your state

Most states now let you change your driver's license address online through their Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website, but not all. Some states require you to visit a DMV office in person, mail in a form, or use a kiosk at a license facility. A few states offer all three options. The fastest way to find out what your state allows is to go directly to your state's DMV website and look for "address change" or "update license information" — the site will tell you when ready whether online is available.

If your state does offer online address changes, the process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes and costs nothing. Your new license will arrive by mail within one to three weeks. During that time, your old license is still valid at your current address on file, so if you need to show ID before the new one arrives, bring proof of your address change (like a utility bill or lease) along with your old license.

Key Takeaways

  • Check your state's DMV website first — it will show you whether online address changes are available in your state.
  • Online address changes are free and usually take 10 to 15 minutes to complete.
  • You will need your driver's license number, current address, and new address to start the process.
  • Your new license will arrive by mail in one to three weeks; your old license remains valid until it arrives.
  • If your state does not offer online changes, you can usually mail a form or visit a DMV office instead.

What you need before you start

Gather your driver's license number and have both your current address and new address ready. Most state DMV websites will ask you to enter these details to verify your identity. Some states also ask for your Social Security number or date of birth as an additional verification step.

Make sure you are on your state's official DMV website, not a third-party service. Third-party sites often charge fees for something the DMV does for free. Your state's DMV website address typically follows the pattern dmv.[state].gov or [state].gov/dmv. If you are unsure, search "[your state] DMV official website" to confirm you have the right link.

Steps to change your address online

Step 1: Go to your state's DMV website and find the address change section. This is usually under a menu labeled "Licenses," "Update Information," or "Online Services." Some states call it "Change of Address" or "Update Your License."

Step 2: Sign in or create an account if required. Some states let you change your address without logging in; others require you to set up an account first. If your state requires an account, you will typically use your driver's license number and date of birth to create one.

Step 3: Enter your new address. Type in your street address, city, state, and ZIP code exactly as you want it to appear on your new license. Double-check for spelling and number errors — the DMV will print what you enter.

Step 4: Review and confirm your information. The website will show you a summary of the change before you submit. Make sure your name, license number, and new address are all correct.

Step 5: Submit and note your confirmation number. After you submit, the website will display a confirmation number. Write this down or take a screenshot — you may need it if you have questions about your order or if your new license does not arrive within the expected timeframe.

What happens after you submit your change

The DMV will process your address change and mail your new license to the address you entered. You should receive it within one to three weeks, though some states take longer during busy periods. Your old license remains valid during this time, even though it shows your old address.

If you need to verify that your address change went through, you can usually log back into your DMV account and check the status. Some states send you an email confirmation as well. If your new license does not arrive within the timeframe your state provided, contact the DMV using the phone number or online chat on their website — have your confirmation number ready.

States that do not offer online address changes

If your state's DMV website does not have an online option, you have two alternatives: mailing a form or visiting a DMV office. To mail a form, go to your state's DMV website and read the address change form (often called a "Change of Address" or "DL-43" form). Fill it out, sign it, and mail it to the address listed on the form. Processing time by mail is typically two to four weeks.

If you prefer to change your address in person, find your nearest DMV office on your state's website, check their hours, and bring your current license and proof of your new address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement). Bring your Social Security card or a document with your Social Security number as well. In-person changes are usually processed when ready, and you may receive a temporary license on the spot while your permanent one is mailed.

If you moved out of state

If you moved to a different state, you will need to get a new driver's license from your new state rather than straightforward changing the address on your old one. Each state issues its own license, so moving across state lines means explore for a new license in your new state. Visit your new state's DMV website to find out what documents you need to bring (usually a proof of residency, proof of identity, and proof of Social Security number) and whether you can start the process online or need to visit an office.

You can keep your old state's license until it expires, but once you get a new license from your new state, you should not drive with both. Return your old license to your previous state's DMV or destroy it by cutting it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my new license after I change my address online?

Most states mail your new license within one to three weeks of your online submission. Some states are faster during slow periods and slower during busy times. Check your state's DMV website for their specific timeframe, which is usually listed on the address change page.

Can I use my old license with the wrong address while I wait for the new one?

Yes. Your old license remains valid until your new one arrives. If you need to show ID before the new license gets there, bring a piece of mail or utility bill showing your new address along with your old license to explain the discrepancy.

What if I made a mistake when I entered my new address online?

Contact your state's DMV as soon as possible using the phone number or online chat on their website. Have your confirmation number ready. If you catch the error before the license is printed and mailed, the DMV may be able to correct it. If the license has already been mailed with the wrong address, you will likely need to request a replacement.

Do I have to change my address online, or can I do it a different way?

It depends on your state. Some states require online changes if you want to avoid visiting an office. Others let you choose between online, mail, or in-person. Check your state's DMV website to see what options are available to you.

Is there a fee to change my address online?

No. Changing your address through your state's official DMV website is free. If a website is charging you a fee for an address change, it is not the official DMV site — use your state's DMV website directly instead.