What you need to do to change your address on your driver's license
You can change your address at the DMV in person, by mail, or online depending on your state. Most states let you update your address without renewing your license — you keep the same license number and expiration date. The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes in person, or two to three weeks by mail. Some states charge a small fee (typically $5 to $15) for an address change; others do it for free.
The exact steps and cost depend on which state issued your license. A few states now offer online address changes through their DMV website, which is the fastest route if your state supports it. If you move to a new state, you will need to get a new license from that state's DMV rather than just updating your address.
Key Takeaways
- Most states let you change your address without renewing your license, and the process takes 10 to 15 minutes in person or two to three weeks by mail.
- You will need your current driver's license, proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement), and a completed form — the form name and number vary by state.
- Some states offer online address changes through their DMV website, which is faster than going in person or mailing documents.
- A few states require you to renew your license to change your address, so check your state's DMV website before you go.
- If you move to a new state, you must get a new license from that state's DMV within the timeframe they set (usually 30 to 60 days).
How to change your address in person at the DMV
Go to your local DMV office with your current driver's license, proof of your new address, and the address change form for your state. Proof of address usually means a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and new address on it. Some states also accept a government letter (like a tax notice or voter registration card) or a piece of mail from a government agency.
Fill out the form at the DMV or bring it completed from home — your state's DMV website will have the form available to read. Hand it to the clerk along with your documents. They will scan your license, update the address in the system, and print a new license with your updated address. You will walk out with your new license the same day.
Wait times vary widely by location and time of day. Going early in the morning on a weekday is usually faster than going on a weekend or after work. Some states let you reserve a time slot online, which can cut your wait time significantly.
Changing your address by mail
Mail your current driver's license, the completed address change form, and a copy of your proof of address to your state's DMV. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope so the DMV can mail your new license back to you. Some states require you to send the original proof of address; others accept a photocopy.
The DMV will process your request and mail your new license to your new address. This usually takes two to three weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods. Your old license will be returned to you in the same envelope as your new one, or the DMV may keep it and send only the new license.
Check your state's DMV website for the mailing address and any specific instructions — some states have a dedicated address-change mailbox, while others want you to send it to the main office. Include a note with your old address and new address if the form does not have a clear space for both.
Online address changes (available in some states)
A growing number of states let you change your address through their DMV website without visiting an office or mailing anything. You log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, enter your new address, and pay any fee online. Your new license is mailed to your new address within one to two weeks.
Online changes are only available in certain states and only if your license is not expired or suspended. Check your state's DMV website to see if this option is available to you. If it is, this is usually the fastest and easiest route.
Some states that offer online changes still require you to mail in proof of address, so read the instructions carefully. Others verify your address through third-party databases and do not require you to submit anything else.
What documents and forms you need
You will need three things: your current driver's license, proof of your new address, and the address change form for your state. The form is usually called an "Address Change" or "Change of Address" form, but the exact name and form number vary. Your state's DMV website will have the form available to read, or you can pick one up at any DMV office.
Proof of address must show your name and new street address. Acceptable documents usually include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, bank or credit card statement, or government mail like a voter registration card or tax notice. The document should be dated within the last 60 days, though some states accept older documents.
A few states accept a signed letter from a landlord or property manager as proof of address if you do not have a utility bill or lease. Call your local DMV office if you are unsure whether your proof of address will be accepted.
Fees and processing times by method
| Method | Cost | Processing Time | When to Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| In person | $0–$15 (varies by state) | Same day | You need your new license quickly or prefer to handle it face-to-face |
| By mail | $0–$15 plus postage | 2–3 weeks | You cannot visit an office or prefer not to go in person |
| Online (if available) | $0–$15 | 1–2 weeks | Your state offers it and your license is not expired |
Most states charge a small fee for an address change, though a few do it for free. The fee is usually $5 to $15. If you mail your request, add the cost of postage and a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Processing times are estimates — the DMV may take longer during peak periods or if documents are missing or unclear.
The in-person method is fastest if you need your new license right away, while online is best if your state offers it and your license is current. Mail works if you have time to wait and cannot visit an office.
What happens if you move to a new state
If you move to a new state, you cannot straightforward change your address on your old license. You must get a new driver's license from your new state's DMV. Each state issues its own licenses and maintains its own database, so your old license will no longer be valid once you move.
Most states require you to get a new license within 30 to 60 days of moving. You will need to visit your new state's DMV office with proof of residency, proof of identity, and proof of your Social Security number. The process is similar to getting a license for the first time, though you may not have to take a new written or driving test if your old license is still valid.
Check your new state's DMV website for the specific requirements and timeline. Some states let you keep your old license until it expires, while others require you to surrender it when you get your new one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to renew my license to change my address?
In most states, no — you can change your address without renewing your license. Your new license will have the same number and expiration date as your old one. A few states require you to renew your license if you change your address, so check your state's DMV website to be sure.
What if my proof of address is older than 60 days?
Call your local DMV office and ask if they will accept it. Some states are flexible about the date, especially if you have recently moved and do not have a newer document yet. You may also be able to use a combination of documents (like an old utility bill plus a recent piece of mail from a government agency) to prove your address.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
Most states let you change your address on an expired license, but a few require you to renew it at the same time. Online address changes are usually not available for expired licenses. Check your state's DMV website or call your local office to confirm.
How long does it take to get my new license in the mail?
By mail, the DMV usually takes two to three weeks to process your request and mail your new license. In person, you get your new license the same day. Online (if available) typically takes one to two weeks. Times vary by state and by how busy the DMV is.
What if I do not receive my new license after three weeks?
Contact your state's DMV and provide your old license number or Social Security number. They can check the status of your request and tell you whether your license was mailed and when. If it was lost in the mail, the DMV can reissue it or you can visit an office in person to get a replacement.