You can change your Virginia driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office

Virginia lets you update your address without getting a new license card. The fastest way is online through the DMV website if you have a valid Virginia license and a recent address change. If you need a new card printed with your updated address, or if you prefer not to use the online system, you can mail in a form or visit a DMV office in person. The method you choose depends on whether you want just the address changed in the system, or a physical replacement card with the new address printed on it.

Each method has a different timeline and requirement. Online changes happen when ready but do not produce a new card. Mail takes two to three weeks. In-person visits are same-day for a replacement card, but are also the only option if your license is expired or suspended.

Key Takeaways

  • The Virginia DMV online system lets you change your address in minutes if your license is current and you have proof of your new address.
  • Mailing in a change-of-address form (DL 43) takes about two to three weeks and does not produce a new card unless you request one.
  • Visiting a DMV office in person is the only option if your license is expired, suspended, or if you want a replacement card the same day.
  • You will need proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
  • Changing your address does not cost money, but ordering a replacement card costs $20.

Changing your address online through the Virginia DMV website

Go to the Virginia DMV website and select the option to change your address. You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and date of birth. The system will ask you to upload or enter proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail postmarked within the last 60 days all work. Once you submit, the change takes effect when ready in the DMV system, and your address will be updated for voting registration and vehicle records as well.

The online change does not print a new license card. Your current card will still show your old address, but the DMV's records will reflect the new one. If you want a replacement card with your new address printed on it, you can order one for $20 through the same online process. The replacement card takes about two weeks to arrive by mail.

Mailing in a change-of-address form

read or request the DL 43 form (process for Duplicate Driver's License) from the Virginia DMV website or pick one up at any DMV office. Fill in your new address and current license information. Attach proof of your new address — the same documents accepted online work here: a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail from the last 60 days. Mail the form and documents to the address listed on the form.

Processing takes about two to three weeks. Like the online method, mailing in the form updates your address in the system but does not produce a new card unless you check the box requesting a duplicate. If you do request a duplicate card, include the $20 fee as a check or money order. Without the duplicate request, you are only updating the address on file, and your physical card will still show the old address.

Visiting a DMV office in person

Find your nearest Virginia DMV office on the DMV website and bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address. You can walk in during regular hours, though some offices accept appointments online. The staff will update your address on the spot. If you want a replacement card printed with your new address, tell the clerk when you arrive — they can print it while you wait for $20.

In-person visits are your only option if your license is expired or suspended, because the online system and mail process both require a valid, current license. If you are moving out of state or your address is outside Virginia, you will also need to visit an office to discuss your situation with a staff member.

What counts as proof of your new address

Virginia accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most straightforward option. A signed lease or rental agreement, a bank or credit card statement, a mortgage statement, or government mail (tax notice, voter registration card, or court document) all work. Some offices also accept a notarized letter from a landlord or property manager if you are renting and do not have a utility bill in your name yet.

Documents older than 60 days will not be accepted. If you just moved and have not received any mail at your new address yet, ask your utility company for a recent bill, or bring a signed lease along with an older document showing your name — the combination often satisfies staff. Call your local DMV office ahead of time if you are unsure whether your specific document will work.

Timeline and what to expect

Online changes take effect when ready. A replacement card ordered online or by mail arrives in about two weeks. In-person visits are same-day if you want a replacement card printed while you wait. Mail-in forms without a replacement card request take two to three weeks to process.

Your address change updates across Virginia's system — your driver's license record, vehicle registration, and voter registration all reflect the new address. If you have a commercial driver's license (CDL), the same process applies. If you are changing your address because you moved to a different state, you will eventually need to get a license in that state, but you can update your Virginia address first if you are keeping the Virginia license temporarily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to get a new card if I change my address?

No. Changing your address in the DMV system is free and does not require a new card. Your old card remains valid for identification and driving. You only need a replacement card if you want your new address printed on the physical card itself, which costs $20.

What if my proof of address is in my spouse's name?

Most DMV offices will not accept a document with only your spouse's name. Bring a document in your name if possible. If you cannot, call your local office ahead of time — some staff will accept a utility bill in a spouse's name along with a lease or mortgage showing both names, but policies vary by location.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

No, not online or by mail. You must visit a DMV office in person if your license is expired. The staff can update your address and issue a replacement card at the same time. You may also need to renew your license depending on how long it has been expired.

How long does an online address change take to show up in the system?

It is when ready for your driver's license record. Your voter registration and vehicle registration update within a few business days. If you order a replacement card online, it takes about two weeks to arrive by mail.

What if I moved and do not have any mail at my new address yet?

Bring a signed lease or rental agreement along with a utility bill or bank statement showing your new address. If the utility bill is in a roommate's name, bring it with your lease. Some offices also accept a notarized letter from your landlord confirming your move-in date.