Where to change your address and what you'll need

You can change your address on your Georgia driver's license at any Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office, online through the DDS website, or by mail. The fastest route is online if you have a valid email address and your current license number — the change takes effect when ready and you don't need to visit an office or pay a fee.

If you go in person, bring your current Georgia driver's license and proof of your new address. Proof of address means a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and new street address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. You do not need to bring your Social Security card or passport unless you're also renewing your license.

If you're changing your address by mail, send a signed letter with your current license number, full name, new address, and a copy of your proof of address to the DDS address listed on their website. Include your current license or a photocopy. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method is free and takes effect the same day if you have your license number and a valid email address.
  • In-person changes at any DDS office take about 15 minutes and require your current license plus one document showing your new address dated within 60 days.
  • Mail-in changes take 7 to 10 business days and require a signed letter, your license number, and a copy of your proof of address.
  • You do not pay a fee to change your address unless you also renew your license or get a replacement card.

Changing your address online through the DDS website

Go to the Georgia DDS website and select the option to update your address. You'll enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. Then enter your new address and confirm it.

The system will send a confirmation email to the address on file with your license. Check that email and click the link to complete the change. Once you confirm, your address is updated in the system and your license is valid at your new address when ready — you don't receive a new card in the mail unless you request one.

If you don't have access to email or you're not sure of your license number, use one of the other methods instead. The online system works only if you can receive and open email within a few hours.

Changing your address in person at a DDS office

Find your nearest DDS office on the Georgia DDS website and check their hours — some offices have limited schedules. You can walk in without an appointment, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Bring your current Georgia driver's license and one document showing your new address dated within the last 60 days.

When you reach the counter, tell the staff member you're updating your address. They'll scan your license, verify your new address against your proof document, and update the system. The change takes effect when ready. If you want a replacement card with your new address printed on it, you can request one — there is a fee for a replacement card, but the address change itself is free.

Most address changes at a DDS office take 10 to 15 minutes. If the office is busy, you may wait longer. Some DDS locations offer online appointment scheduling, which you can check on their website.

Changing your address by mail

Write a letter on plain paper that includes your current Georgia driver's license number, full legal name, new street address, city, state, and ZIP code. Sign the letter and include a photocopy of your current license or a clear photo of both sides of your license. Attach a copy of your proof of address — the same documents that work in person (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 60 days).

Mail everything to the DDS address shown on their website. Do not send your actual license card unless you're also requesting a replacement. The DDS will process your letter and update your address in the system within 7 to 10 business days. You'll receive a confirmation by mail, though some people don't receive anything — you can call the DDS to confirm the change went through.

Mail-in changes are slower than online or in-person, so use this method only if you can't access email or visit an office. There is no fee for a mail-in address change.

What counts as proof of your new address

Your proof of address must show your name and your new street address, and it must be dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank or credit card statement all work. Some people also use insurance documents, property tax notices, or government mail.

The document does not have to be in your name alone — a lease or utility bill in a spouse's name or a roommate's name is usually accepted as long as it shows your address. If you're moving and don't yet have a document in your new name, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your move-in date and address.

Do not bring a piece of mail addressed to you at your new address unless it's from a bank, government agency, or utility company. Personal mail or packages are not accepted as proof.

If you've lost your license or it's damaged

If your license is lost, stolen, or too damaged to scan, you'll need to get a replacement card instead of just updating your address. A replacement card costs a fee (the amount varies, so check the DDS website) and takes longer than an address-only change. You can request a replacement in person at a DDS office or by mail.

If your license is damaged but still readable, some DDS offices will update your address without requiring a replacement. Call ahead to ask, or bring it in and let the staff member decide. If they say you need a replacement, you can pay the fee and get a new card with your updated address printed on it.

How long the change takes and when it's official

Online changes take effect the same day once you confirm the email link. In-person changes take effect when ready after the DDS staff member updates the system — you can use your license at your new address right away. Mail-in changes take 7 to 10 business days from the date the DDS receives your letter.

You don't need to carry proof of the address change. Your license itself is the proof — the address printed on it is what matters. If you change your address online or by mail and don't request a replacement card, your old card with the old address printed on it is still valid, but the DDS system shows your new address. If a police officer or government office checks your license, they'll see the current address in the system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address on my driver's license when I move?

Georgia law requires you to notify the DDS of a change of address within a certain timeframe, though the exact important date is not always enforced for routine address changes. It's best to update it within 30 days of moving to avoid problems if you're pulled over or need to renew your license. An outdated address can also cause issues with vehicle registration and insurance.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

Yes, you can change your address on an expired license. However, if your license has been expired for more than a certain period, the DDS may require you to renew it at the same time. Call the DDS or visit their website to check the rules for your situation, or bring your expired license to an office and ask.

What if I don't have a document showing my new address?

If you've 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 letter on their letterhead confirming your address and move-in date. Some DDS offices will accept this as proof. If you're staying with family or friends temporarily, ask them for a signed letter confirming you live there, though acceptance varies by office.

Will I get a new license card in the mail after I change my address online?

No, the online method updates your address in the system but does not send you a new card. Your old card remains valid and your license number doesn't change. If you want a card with your new address printed on it, you can request a replacement card for a fee at any DDS office or by mail.

How do I know if my address change went through?

If you changed your address online, you'll receive a confirmation email. If you changed it in person, the staff member will confirm it's updated before you leave. If you changed it by mail, call the DDS or visit their website to check your record. You can also visit a DDS office and ask them to verify your current address in the system.