How to Change Your Address on a Washington Driver's License

Where to change your address on your Washington license

You can change your address on your Washington driver's license or ID card at any Department of Licensing (DOL) office in the state, online through the DOL website, or by mail. The online option is the fastest if your address change is recent and your license is not expiring within the next 60 days. If you go in person, you do not need an appointment at most locations, though wait times vary by office and time of day.

Washington also lets you change your address when you renew your license, so if your renewal is coming up soon, you can handle both at once. The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the change recorded and whether you want to update your physical card or just your record with the state.

Key Takeaways

Online address changes through the DOL website take effect when ready in the state system but do not update your physical card.
In-person visits at a DOL office update both your record and your physical card, and you can usually walk in without scheduling ahead.
Mail-in address changes require a completed form and proof of your new address, and processing takes several weeks.
You will need your current license or ID card and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement.
If your license expires within 60 days of your address change, you must renew it in person rather than changing the address online.

Changing your address online

The DOL website allows you to update your address without visiting an office. Go to dol.wa.gov, find the address change option, and log in with your driver's license number and date of birth. You will need to confirm your current address and enter your new one. The change takes effect in the state system right away, and you will receive a confirmation email.

The online method has one important limit: it does not print a new physical card with your updated address. Your old card remains valid for identification, but the address on it will be outdated. If you need a card that shows your current address, you will have to visit a DOL office or renew your license in person. Some situations, like opening a bank account or updating your voter registration, may require the address on your physical card to match your actual residence.

Changing your address in person at a DOL office

Walk into any DOL office with your current license or ID card and proof of your new address. Proof can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail showing your name and new address. The office staff will update your record and issue you a new physical card with the updated address on the spot or within a few days, depending on the office's card-printing setup.

Most DOL offices do not require appointments for address changes, but you may wait 30 minutes to an hour during busy times. Call ahead or check the DOL website to find the office nearest you and see current wait times. Bring your proof of address in original form — photocopies are usually not accepted.

Changing your address by mail

Fill out the Address Change form (available on the DOL website as form DL 43) and mail it to the address listed on the form along with a copy of your proof of address. Do not send your original license or ID card unless you are also renewing it. The DOL will process your request and mail you a new card with your updated address.

Mail processing typically takes two to four weeks from the time the DOL receives your form. If you need the address change recorded quickly, this method is slower than going in person or using the online option. Keep a copy of what you mail for your records in case questions come up.

What counts as proof of your new address

The DOL accepts documents that show your name and new address and were issued within the last 60 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreement, mortgage statement, or recent bank or credit card statement all work. Government mail, such as a tax document or voter registration card, also counts. The document must be an original — the DOL does not accept photocopies or digital images printed at home.

If you do not have any of these documents yet, you can sometimes use a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on letterhead, along with a copy of your lease. Call your local DOL office to confirm what they will accept before you make the trip, since policies can vary slightly between locations.

Timing if your license is expiring soon

If your license expires within 60 days, you cannot change your address online. You must renew your license in person at a DOL office, and you can update your address as part of that renewal. Bring your current license, proof of your new address, and any documents required for renewal (usually proof of identity and residency). This combines both tasks into one visit.

If your license expires more than 60 days away, you have the flexibility to change your address online now and renew later, or handle both at the same time in person. Choose based on whether you need a new physical card with your current address right away.

What happens after you change your address

Once your address is updated in the DOL system, other state agencies can see the change. Your voter registration, vehicle registration, and hunting or fishing licenses may update automatically, though some require you to notify them separately. Check with each agency if you need confirmation that your address has been updated in their system.

If you changed your address online only, remember that your physical card still shows the old address. Some businesses or government offices may ask for a second form of ID or proof of address if the card does not match your current residence. Having a utility bill or lease handy can help in those situations.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can update your address in the DOL system, but you cannot renew or get a new physical card while your license is suspended or revoked. Contact the DOL to find out what you need to do to clear the suspension before you can get a new card printed.

Do I need to change my address on my vehicle registration too?

Vehicle registration is separate from your driver's license. You will need to update your vehicle registration address with the DOL as well. You can do this online, by mail, or in person using a similar process to your license address change.

What if I moved out of state but still have a Washington license?

You can change your address to an out-of-state address in the DOL system online or by mail. However, if you now live in another state, you should check whether you are required to get a license from that state instead. Most states require you to get a local license within a certain time after moving.

How long does it take to get a new card after changing my address in person?

Most DOL offices print and issue your new card the same day or within one business day. Some smaller offices may mail it to you, which takes a few days. Ask the staff at your local office what to expect when you visit.

Can I change my address online if I have a REAL ID compliant license?

Yes, you can change your address online regardless of whether your license is REAL ID compliant. The online change updates your record but does not print a new card. If you need a new REAL ID card, you will have to renew in person.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.