You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at a Georgia DDS office

Georgia offers three ways to update the address on your driver's license or ID card. The fastest is online through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website if your license is current and you have not had a name change. If you cannot use the online method, you can mail in a form or visit a DDS office in person. All three routes take different amounts of time, so choose based on when you need the updated card.

You do not need to pay a fee to change your address — it is free. You will need your current license number and the address you want on file. If you have moved recently and are not sure which county office is closest, the DDS website has a location finder.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method through the Georgia DDS website is the fastest option and takes about 7 to 10 business days if your license is not expired and you have not changed your name.
  • Mailing in Form DL 43 takes 2 to 3 weeks and works for any license holder, including those with expired licenses or name changes.
  • Visiting a DDS office in person gives you an updated card the same day but requires you to bring your current license and proof of your new address.
  • You must show proof of your new address, which can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
  • If your license is expired, you cannot use the online method and must either mail in the form or visit an office in person.

Changing your address online through the DDS website

Go to the Georgia DDS website and look for the "Online Services" section. You will need to create an account or log in if you already have one. The system will ask for your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity.

Once you are verified, select the option to update your address. Enter your new address exactly as you want it to appear on your license. Review the information carefully before submitting, because you cannot change it again online once it is processed. After you submit, you will receive a confirmation number.

Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to use your current license until the new one arrives. This method only works if your license is not expired and you have not had a legal name change.

Mailing in Form DL 43 to update your address

read Form DL 43 (Address Change) from the Georgia DDS website or request it by phone at 678-413-8400. Fill out the form with your current license number, name, date of birth, and new address. You do not need to include proof of your new address when you mail it in — the DDS will use the address you provide on the form.

Mail the completed form to the address listed on the form itself. Include your current license if you want it returned to you, though this is optional. The DDS will process your request and mail your new license to the address you provided, which usually takes 2 to 3 weeks.

This method works for anyone, including people with expired licenses or those who have changed their name. If your name has changed, include a copy of the legal document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

Visiting a DDS office in person for same-day service

Find your nearest DDS office using the location finder on the Georgia DDS website. Bring your current driver's license or ID card and proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail (such as a tax return or voter registration card) dated within the last 60 days.

Walk in during office hours — most offices do not require an appointment for address changes. Tell the staff member you need to update your address. They will verify your identity, confirm your new address, and take a new photo if your current license photo is more than 8 years old. You will receive your updated license the same day.

If you have an expired license, you will need to renew it at the same time, which requires additional documents and a fee. An address change alone at an office is free.

What counts as proof of your new address

Georgia requires proof that you actually live at the address you are providing. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and the address you want on file. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common proof. A lease agreement or mortgage statement also works, even if it is older than 60 days as long as it is still current.

Government mail counts if it is recent — a tax return, voter registration card, or jury summons all work. Bank statements and insurance documents are also acceptable. You do not need multiple documents; one is enough. If you are moving and have not yet received mail at your new address, bring a signed lease or a letter from your landlord on letterhead that confirms you live there.

How long each method takes

Online processing takes 7 to 10 business days from the time you submit your request. You will receive your new license by mail at the address you provided. Mailing in Form DL 43 takes 2 to 3 weeks because the form has to travel to the DDS office, be processed, and then your new license has to be mailed back to you.

Visiting an office in person is the fastest option if you need the updated card right away. You will walk out with your new license the same day, though you may need to wait in line depending on how busy the office is. If you are not in a hurry, the online method is usually the easiest because you do not have to leave home or gather documents.

What to do if your license is expired

If your license has expired, you cannot use the online address change method. You must either mail in Form DL 43 or visit a DDS office in person. Mailing in the form is simpler because you do not need to provide proof of your new address — the DDS will accept the address you write on the form.

If you visit an office, you will need to renew your license at the same time you change your address. This requires your current license (even though it is expired), proof of your new address, and proof of your identity and date of birth. You will also pay a renewal fee. The office will take a new photo and issue you a renewed license with your new address the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?

No. You cannot update your address through any method if your license is suspended or revoked. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation with the DDS. Once your license status is cleared, you can change your address using any of the three methods.

Do I need to change my address before I move or after?

You should change your address after you move and have proof that you live at the new location. Georgia law requires your license address to match where you actually live. If you change it before you move, you will not have proof of residence at that address yet.

What if I made a mistake on my new address after I submitted it online?

If you submitted the request online and realized the address is wrong, contact the DDS by phone at 678-413-8400 before your new license is mailed. They may be able to stop the card and correct it. If the card has already been mailed, you will need to visit an office in person or mail in Form DL 43 again with the correct address.

Can someone else change my address for me?

No. Only you can change your address on your license. If you visit an office in person, you must bring your current license and proof of your new address. You cannot authorize someone else to do it on your behalf.

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

No. Your license number stays the same. Only the address on the card and in the system changes. Your new license will have the same number as your current one.