How to Change Your Address on Your California Driver License

The fastest way to change your address in California

You can change your address on your California driver license online through the DMV website, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and you do not need to visit an office or mail anything. You will need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address.

If you cannot use the online system, you can mail a completed form or visit a DMV office in person. The address change itself is free, and you do not need to take a new photo or retake any tests. Your existing license remains valid; the DMV straightforward updates the address in their system and mails you a replacement card with the new address printed on it.

Key Takeaways

The DMV online system is the fastest option and requires only your license number, Social Security number, and email address.
You can also mail Form DL 43 to the DMV address listed on the form, or visit a DMV office in person with your current license.
The address change is free and does not require a new photo, test, or in-person appointment.
Your replacement license card arrives by mail within two to three weeks after the DMV processes your request.
If you move before your replacement card arrives, you can update your address again online or by mail.

Changing your address online through the DMV website

Go to the California DMV website at dmv.ca.gov and look for the "Address Change" option under the "Online Services" section. You will be asked to log in or create an account. If you do not have an account, select "Create Account" and enter your driver license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

Once you are logged in, select "Change Address" and enter your new address exactly as you want it to appear on your license. Double-check the spelling and zip code — this is the address that will print on your replacement card. You will receive a confirmation email at the address you provided. The DMV will mail your replacement license card to your new address within two to three weeks.

Mailing a form to the DMV

If you prefer not to use the online system, read or print Form DL 43 from the DMV website. This form is titled "process for Duplicate or Corrected Driver License or Identification Card." Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Do not use correction fluid or cross out mistakes — print a new copy instead.

Mail the completed form to the DMV address printed on the form itself. Include your current driver license or a copy of it. Mail delivery typically takes one to two weeks, and the DMV takes another one to two weeks to process the form after it arrives. Your replacement card will be mailed to your new address. Keep a copy of the form for your records.

Changing your address in person at a DMV office

Visit any DMV office in California with your current driver license. You do not need an appointment for an address change, but you can book one online at dmv.ca.gov to reduce wait time. Bring only your valid driver license — no other documents are required.

Tell the DMV staff member that you need to change your address. They will update your information in the system and give you a receipt. Your replacement license card will be mailed to your new address within two to three weeks. If you need to use your license before the replacement arrives, your receipt serves as temporary proof of your address change.

What happens after you submit your address change

The DMV processes address changes in the order they are received. Online submissions are typically processed within one to two weeks. Mailed forms take longer because of mail delivery time on both ends. Once processed, the DMV prints your replacement card and mails it to your new address.

You should receive your replacement card within two to three weeks of submission. If you move again before it arrives, you can submit another address change — the DMV will send the card to your most recent address on file. If more than three weeks pass and you have not received your card, contact the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 to check the status.

Updating your address with other agencies

Changing your driver license address does not automatically update your address with the California Department of Motor Vehicles for vehicle registration, insurance, or voter registration. You will need to update those separately if your address changed.

For vehicle registration, use the DMV online system or mail Form REG 14 (Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability). For voter registration, register online at registertovote.ca.gov or submit a new voter registration card to your county elections office. Notify your insurance company directly by phone or through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online if I do not have an email address?

No, the online system requires a valid email address to send your confirmation. You will need to use the mail or in-person options instead. If you have access to a friend's or family member's email, you can use that address for the confirmation, as long as you can receive the message.

What if my address is too long or does not fit on the form?

Write your address as completely and clearly as possible using the space provided. If your street address is unusually long, abbreviate where possible (for example, "St" instead of "Street"). The DMV will print what fits on the card and keep the full address in their system.

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

You can change your address before or after you move. If you change it before you move, the replacement card will be mailed to your new address if you provide it. If you change it after you move, make sure you have already received mail at your new address so you can provide proof if needed later.

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

No, your license number stays the same. Only the address printed on your card changes. The replacement card will have the same number as your current license.

What if I moved out of state — do I still need to change my California address?

If you moved out of California, you should get a driver license from your new state instead of changing your California address. California law requires you to get a new license within 10 days of establishing residency in another state. You can keep your California license as a form of identification, but it will not be valid for driving.

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.