You can change your California driver license address online, by mail, or in person at the DMV

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) lets you update your address without renewing your license. The fastest route is online through the DMV website if your license is current and you have a Real ID or REAL ID-compliant license. If you don't may have access to for online, you can mail a form or visit a DMV office in person. The address change itself is free — you only pay if you're renewing your license at the same time.

Your new address becomes official once the DMV processes your request. You don't need to carry proof of your new address with you when ready, but you should have it ready when you explore, because the DMV will ask for it. The whole process usually takes one to two weeks by mail, or a few minutes if you do it online.

Key Takeaways

  • Online address changes work only if your California license is current and you have a Real ID or REAL ID-compliant license.
  • By mail, you send Form DL 43 (Change of Address) with proof of your new address to the DMV address listed on the form.
  • In person, bring your current license, proof of your new address, and proof of California residency to any DMV office.
  • Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
  • Address changes are free; you only pay if you renew your license or get a Real ID upgrade at the same time.

Changing your address online through the DMV website

Go to the California DMV website and select "Address Change" under the "Online Services" section. You'll need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and ask for your new address.

Online changes work only if your license is current (not expired) and you already have a Real ID or a REAL ID-compliant license — you can tell by looking for a small star in the upper right corner of your license. If your license is expired or doesn't have the star, you'll need to use the mail or in-person method instead.

Once you submit online, the DMV processes the change within a few business days. You don't need to print anything or visit an office. Your new address will appear on your license the next time you renew it.

Mailing Form DL 43 to the DMV

read or request Form DL 43 (Change of Address) from the California DMV website or any DMV office. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. You must include proof that you live at the new address.

Acceptable proof of address includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail (like a tax return or voter registration card) dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and new address. If the document shows only your name or only your address, you'll need to send two documents.

Mail the completed form and proof to the address listed on the form itself — this varies by region. Include a copy of your current driver license if you want. The DMV will process your change within one to two weeks and mail you a new license with your updated address.

Changing your address in person at a DMV office

Bring your current driver license, proof of your new address, and proof of California residency to any DMV office. Proof of address is the same as for mail: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail from the last 60 days showing your name and new address. Proof of residency can be the same document if it shows both your name and address.

You don't need an appointment for an address change, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Check the DMV website to see current wait times at your nearest office before you go. The DMV will process your change on the spot, and you'll receive a new license in the mail within one to two weeks.

What counts as proof of your new address

The DMV accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show both your name and your new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. Lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, and homeowners insurance statements all work. Government mail like a tax return, voter registration card, or jury summons also counts.

If your document shows only your name or only your address — not both — bring two documents. For example, a utility bill plus a lease agreement, or a bank statement plus a government letter. The DMV will not accept documents older than 60 days, so if you just moved and don't have recent mail yet, ask your landlord or utility company for a dated letter confirming your new address.

When you need to renew your license at the same time

If your license is expired or will expire within the next 60 days, you can renew it and change your address together. This costs the standard renewal fee (currently $64 for a four-year renewal or $39 for a two-year renewal, though these amounts change). You can renew online through the DMV website if you're may be able to access, or by mail or in person.

If you want to upgrade to a Real ID at the same time you change your address, that costs an additional fee (currently $15 for a Real ID upgrade, though this may vary). Real ID is required for federal air travel and entry to federal buildings starting in 2025, so many people choose to upgrade when they're already updating their information.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my new license in the mail?

The DMV typically mails your new license within one to two weeks of processing your address change. If you changed your address online, the new address appears on your license the next time you renew it, which could be several years away. If you need proof of your new address before your new license arrives, the DMV can print a temporary document at an office.

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

Yes. Your vehicle registration must match your current address. You can change your vehicle registration address online through the DMV website, by mail using Form REG 14, or in person at a DMV office. The process is separate from your driver license address change.

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

If you no longer live in California, you should get a driver license from your new state instead of updating your California address. California law requires you to get a license from your state of residency. Contact your new state's DMV for their process.

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

You can update your address, but you cannot renew your license or get a Real ID upgrade until your suspension or revocation is cleared. Contact the DMV to find out the status of your license and what you need to do to restore it.

What if I don't have proof of my new address yet?

If you just moved and don't have a utility bill or lease in your name yet, ask your landlord, property manager, or utility company for a dated letter on their letterhead confirming your new address and move-in date. The DMV will accept this as proof of address.