Where to change your address and what you'll need

You can change your address on your California driver's license at any DMV office, online through the DMV website, or by mail. The online option is fastest if your license is current and you have a valid email address — you can update it in minutes without leaving home. If you go in person, bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

The address change itself is free. You won't need to take a new photo or retake any tests. The DMV will mail you a replacement license with your new address within 7 to 10 business days if you do it online, or you can walk out with a temporary paper license the same day if you visit an office in person.

Key Takeaways

  • Online address changes through the DMV website take a few minutes and cost nothing, with your new license arriving by mail within a week or two.
  • In-person changes at a DMV office require your current license and a document showing your new address, and you receive a temporary license when ready.
  • Mail-in changes are possible but slower; you'll need to fill out a form and send it with copies of your documents to the DMV.
  • Your address change does not affect your license expiration date or require you to renew early.

Changing your address online

Visit the California DMV website and look for the "Address Change" option under the "Online Services" section. You'll need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to log in. The system will ask you to enter your new address and confirm your email.

After you submit, the DMV sends a confirmation email. Your new license prints and ships to your new address automatically. During the wait, your old license is still valid — you don't need to do anything else. If you need to drive before the new license arrives, the confirmation email serves as proof of your address change.

Changing your address in person at a DMV office

Walk into any DMV office with your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, insurance policy, or bank statement. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and new address.

Tell the staff member you're there for an address change. They'll take your information, update the system, and give you a temporary paper license on the spot that's valid for 30 days. Your permanent license with the new address arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Bring your temporary license with you while you wait.

Changing your address by mail

read the Address Change form (DL 43) from the DMV website or request one by phone. Fill it out with your current information and new address, then mail it to the DMV address listed on the form. Include a photocopy of your current driver's license and a photocopy of a document showing your new address.

Processing by mail takes longer — typically 3 to 4 weeks from the time the DMV receives your envelope. There's no way to track the status while it's in the mail system, so send it certified if you want proof of delivery. Your new license will arrive separately once processed.

What happens if you move before your new license arrives

If you change your address online or by mail and then move again before the new license reaches you, contact the DMV right away. You can request they hold the license at a local DMV office for you to pick up, or you can submit a second address change. Calling the DMV customer service line is the fastest way to handle this — they can update your mailing address in the system while you're on the phone.

If your new license arrives at an old address, you can still use it — the address on your license doesn't have to match where you currently live. However, if you're stopped by police or need to show your license as proof of residency, having a current address on file prevents confusion.

Address changes and vehicle registration

Changing your driver's license address does not automatically update your vehicle registration. You'll need to update your registration separately through the DMV, either online, by mail, or in person. The state requires you to update your vehicle registration within 10 days of moving, so handle both changes around the same time to stay compliant.

When you update your vehicle registration, you'll need your current registration card and proof of your new address — the same documents work for both. If you do the registration change online at the same time as your license change, you can complete both in one session.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address if I move?

California law requires you to notify the DMV of a new address within 10 days of moving. Driving with an outdated address on your license can result in a citation, though it's typically a low-priority violation. Updating it keeps you in compliance and ensures important documents reach you.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

No, you cannot change your address online if your license is expired. You'll need to renew your license first, which requires an in-person visit, a new photo, and a vision test. Once renewed, you can change the address at the same appointment or do it online afterward.

What if my proof of address document is older than 60 days?

The DMV won't accept documents dated more than 60 days before your visit. If your only proof is older, ask your utility company, bank, or landlord for a recent statement. A letter from your employer on company letterhead showing your name and new address also works if it's recent.

Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance?

Changing your address with the DMV does not affect your driving record or any violations on it. Your insurance company may need to know about your move separately, so contact them directly. Some insurers adjust rates based on location, so updating them promptly can affect your premium.

How long is the temporary paper license valid?

The temporary paper license you receive at a DMV office is valid for 30 days. Your permanent license should arrive within 7 to 10 business days, so you'll have overlap. If your permanent license doesn't arrive within two weeks, contact the DMV to check the status.