Where to go and what you need
You change your address at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), not online or by mail in most states. A few states—including California, Colorado, and New York—let you update your address through their DMV website without visiting an office, but most require you to appear in person or use mail-in forms. The fastest way is to check your state's DMV website first to see which method is available to you.
Bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Proof of address usually means a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and new address. Some states accept a government letter with your new address, like a tax return or voter registration confirmation. Call your local DMV office or check the website before you go—what counts as proof varies by state.
You do not need to retake a photo or pass a written test unless your license is expiring soon or your state requires it as part of the address change process. Most states straightforward print a new license with the updated address and mail it to you within one to three weeks.
Key Takeaways
- Visit your state's DMV office in person, or check whether your state allows online or mail-in address changes on the DMV website.
- Bring your current driver's license and a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement showing your name and new address.
- You will receive a new license by mail, usually within one to three weeks, and your old license becomes invalid.
- Some states charge a small fee for a replacement license, while others do not charge for an address-only change.
How to find your state DMV office
Search "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] Department of Motor Vehicles" to reach the official website. From there, look for a link to find a local office, check hours, and see whether you need an appointment. Many states now require appointments, especially after the pandemic, so do not assume you can walk in.
If your state's website is hard to navigate, call the main DMV phone number listed on the site. A staff member can tell you which office is closest, whether you need an appointment, and exactly what documents to bring. This phone call takes five minutes and saves you a wasted trip.
What happens if you move before your license arrives
If you change your address at the DMV but move again before the new license arrives, contact the DMV as soon as possible with your updated address. Some states let you do this online or by phone; others require you to visit an office again. Your new license will be redirected to your latest address if you notify them quickly enough.
Do not ignore mail from the DMV during this time. If the license is returned as undeliverable, you may have to pay a fee to request a replacement or visit an office to update your address again.
Fees and timing
Most states charge between $5 and $25 for a replacement license, though some do not charge if you are only changing your address. A few states charge nothing at all. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to know the cost before you go.
The new license usually arrives within one to three weeks, but timing varies by state and by how busy the DMV is. Your old license is no longer valid once you request the change, so if you need a photo ID before the new one arrives, bring a passport or other government-issued ID. Some states will issue a temporary paper license on the spot if you ask.
Updating your address in other places at the same time
While you are updating your driver's license, consider changing your address with your car insurance company, voter registration, and the U.S. Postal Service. The USPS offers a mail forwarding service that redirects mail to your new address for a small fee, which buys you time to update other records.
If you have a passport, update that address with the State Department as well, though it is not required for the passport to remain valid. Keeping your address current across these records prevents mail delays and makes it easier if you need to renew your license or other documents later.
If your license is lost or stolen
If you lost your license and also moved, you will need to report it lost and change your address in the same visit. Bring your proof of address and any other ID you have. The DMV will issue a replacement license with your new address. There may be an additional fee for a lost license beyond the replacement fee.
If your license was stolen, some states ask you to file a police report first, though many do not require it. Check your state's DMV website or call to see whether a report is needed before you visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address online instead of going to the DMV?
A handful of states including California, Colorado, and New York allow online address changes through their DMV website. Most states do not. Check your state's DMV website to see if this option is available to you. If not, you will need to visit an office or use a mail-in form.
What if I do not have a utility bill or lease to prove my address?
Other documents that work include a mortgage statement, bank statement, government tax return, voter registration card, or a letter from a government agency. Some states accept a notarized letter from a landlord or a recent piece of mail from a government office. Call your DMV to ask what they will accept before you visit.
How long does it take to get my new license?
Most states mail the new license within one to three weeks. Some states are faster; others take longer depending on how busy they are. Your old license stops being valid once you request the change, so plan ahead if you need a photo ID right away.
Do I have to retake my photo or the written test?
No, not for an address-only change. You keep your same license number and photo. The only exception is if your license is expiring very soon or your state has a specific rule about it. The DMV will tell you if anything beyond an address change is needed.
What if I move again before my new license arrives?
Contact your DMV right away with your new address. Some states let you do this online or by phone. The DMV can redirect your license to your latest address if you tell them quickly. If the license is returned as undeliverable, you may have to pay a fee to get a replacement.