You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at the DMV
California lets you update your driver's license address without getting a new card. The fastest route is the DMV's online system, which takes about 10 minutes if you have your current license number and a valid email. If you prefer not to go online, you can mail a form to the DMV or walk into a field office — both take longer but work just as well. You do not need to take a new photo or pass a test; the DMV straightforward updates the record tied to your existing license number.
The method you choose depends on how soon you need the change recorded and whether you have internet access. Online changes show up in the DMV system within one business day. Mail takes two to three weeks. In-person visits at a field office are when ready but require you to wait for an appointment or stand in line, depending on the office.
Key Takeaways
- The DMV's online address change tool is the fastest method and requires only your license number, date of birth, and email address.
- Mailing Form DL 43 to the DMV takes two to three weeks but requires no appointment or online account.
- In-person visits at a DMV field office complete the change when ready but may require a wait or advance appointment booking.
- Your physical license card does not change when you update your address — only the DMV's record is updated.
- You must update your address within 10 days of moving under California law, though the DMV does not enforce this strictly.
Changing your address online through the DMV website
Go to dmv.ca.gov and look for the "Address Change" option under the "Online Services" section. You will need your current California driver's license number, your date of birth, and access to an email address. The system will send a confirmation email to verify you control that address. Click the link in the email within 24 hours to complete the change.
Online changes are recorded in the DMV database within one business day. This means your new address will show up if someone looks up your record, but your physical license card will still show your old address. You do not need to carry a new card — California law treats the DMV's electronic record as the official version. If you want a card with your new address printed on it, you can order a replacement for a fee, but it is not required.
The online system works only if your license is valid and not suspended. If your license is expired or revoked, you must use the mail or in-person method instead.
Mailing Form DL 43 to update your address by post
read or request Form DL 43 (Change of Address) from dmv.ca.gov. Fill in your name, license number, old address, and new address. Sign and date the form. Mail it to the address listed on the form — currently the DMV's Sacramento office, though this can change, so check the form itself for the current mailing address.
Processing by mail takes two to three weeks. The DMV will send a confirmation postcard to your new address once the change is complete. Keep this postcard as proof that you notified the DMV. If you do not receive it within four weeks, contact the DMV to confirm the form arrived.
This method works for anyone with a valid, expired, or suspended license. You do not need internet access or an email address. The downside is the wait time — if you need proof of your new address quickly, this is the slowest option.
Changing your address in person at a DMV field office
Visit any California DMV field office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Proof can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your name and new address. The office staff will update your record on the spot, and you will walk out with confirmation.
Most field offices now require you to book an appointment online through dmv.ca.gov rather than walk in. Go to the appointments section, select "Address Change," pick your nearest office, and choose an available time slot. Some offices still accept walk-ins during certain hours, but appointment slots fill quickly and walk-in waits can be several hours.
Bring your current license and one piece of proof of address. If you have moved very recently and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, a signed lease agreement or a letter from your landlord stating your new address and move-in date usually works. Call the specific field office before you go if you are unsure whether your proof will be accepted.
What counts as proof of your new address
The DMV accepts a narrow list of documents. Utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet) in your name dated within the last 60 days are the most common. Lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, and government mail (tax forms, voter registration, court documents) also work. A bank or credit card statement with your new address is usually not accepted on its own.
The document must show your full name and your new street address. A P.O. box does not count as a residential address for driver's license purposes. If you have moved to a new state and are keeping your California license temporarily, you will eventually need to transfer your license to your new state — California does not allow you to maintain a license at an out-of-state address indefinitely.
If you are homeless or living in temporary housing, contact the DMV directly to discuss options. Some field offices can work with you to establish an address for licensing purposes.
Timeline and what to expect after you change your address
Online changes appear in the DMV system within one business day. Mail changes take two to three weeks. In-person changes are when ready. In all cases, your physical license card keeps your old address printed on it — this is normal and does not cause problems. Law enforcement and other agencies can see your current address in the DMV database even if your card shows an old one.
If you ordered a replacement card with your new address, it will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. You do not have to order a replacement card unless you want one. Your current card remains valid for identification purposes.
If you are moving out of state, you should update your California address first, then transfer your license to your new state within the timeframe required by that state. Keeping a California license after you have established residency elsewhere can cause problems with insurance, vehicle registration, and voting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address within 10 days of moving?
California law says you must notify the DMV of a change of address within 10 days, but the DMV does not actively enforce this important date. However, it is a good idea to update as soon as you can. If you are pulled over and your license shows an old address, an officer may ask why, and having a recent change on file protects you.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
Yes. You can change your address online, by mail, or in person even if your license is expired. You do not have to renew your license to update your address. However, if your license is suspended or revoked, the online method will not work — use mail or visit a field office instead.
What if I move before my new utility bill arrives?
Use your signed lease, a letter from your landlord, or a mortgage statement instead. These documents do not have to be dated recently — they just have to show your name and new address. If you are staying with family temporarily, ask them for a letter on their utility bill or a notarized statement confirming you live there.
Will my insurance company know about my address change?
Not automatically. Your insurance company does not receive updates from the DMV. You must contact your insurance agent or company separately to update your address. Failing to do so can cause problems with claims or coverage, so notify them as soon as you move.
Can I change my address if I have an out-of-state move coming up?
Yes, but it may not be necessary. If you are moving out of California permanently, you can transfer your license directly to your new state without updating your California address first. However, if you are keeping a California address temporarily, update it now and then transfer your license once you have established residency in your new state.