You need proof of your new address and your current driver license
Most states require two things to change your address at the DMV: a valid photo ID (usually your current driver license) and a document that proves where you live now. The proof-of-address document is the piece that trips people up — it has to be recent, in your name, and from an approved category. Your current license alone is not enough, even though you already have it.
The exact documents accepted vary by state, so you will need to check your state's DMV website before you go. But the categories are almost always the same: utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, or government mail. What matters is that the document shows your name and your new street address, and was issued within the last 30 to 90 days (the window depends on your state).
Key Takeaways
- You must bring your current driver license and one document that proves your new address, such as a recent utility bill or lease.
- Proof-of-address documents must show your full name and street address, and usually must be dated within the last 30 to 90 days.
- Utility bills, mortgage statements, lease agreements, and government mail are the most commonly accepted proof documents across all states.
- Some states let you change your address online or by mail if you have not moved out of state, which means you may not need to visit the DMV in person.
Documents that prove your address
A utility bill is the easiest proof document to use. It needs to show your name and your new address, and most states accept bills from electric, gas, water, or internet providers. The bill should be dated within the last 30 to 90 days — check your state's rules to be sure. A printed bill from your online account works as long as it shows the date and your address clearly.
A lease agreement or rental contract works if it is signed and shows your name and the new address. Some states require it to be dated within a certain window; others accept any signed lease as long as you are moving into that address. If you just signed a lease for a place you have not moved into yet, call your DMV first — some states will not accept a lease for a future move-in date.
A mortgage statement or property tax bill shows ownership and your address. These are usually accepted even if they are older than 90 days, because they are official financial documents. A recent statement from your lender or the county assessor's office works.
Government mail counts as proof in most states — things like a tax return, Social Security statement, or letter from a government agency. The document must show your name and new address and be recent (usually within 60 days). Jury duty notices and voter registration cards are often accepted too.
What your current driver license needs to show
Your current driver license must be valid — not expired. If your license expired more than a few months ago, you may need to renew it rather than just change the address. Check your state's rules, because some states let you change the address on an expired license if the expiration is recent, while others require the license to be current.
Your license also needs to be a real ID-compliant license or a standard license, depending on what your state issues. If you have a learner's permit or a temporary license, you usually cannot use it to change your address — you need the actual driver license card. Bring the physical card, not a photo of it.
Documents you do not need (and why people bring them)
You do not need a lease and a utility bill. One proof-of-address document is enough. People often bring both because they are worried one will not be accepted, but that wastes time. Bring one clear document that meets your state's rules.
You do not need a notarized letter from your landlord or a signed affidavit saying you live somewhere. Some states used to accept these, but most have moved away from them because they are straightforward to forge. Stick to official documents — bills, leases, and government mail.
You do not need to bring your Social Security card, birth certificate, or proof of citizenship to change your address. Those documents are only needed if you are renewing your license or getting a REAL ID. A straightforward address change requires only your license and proof of address.
How to find out what your state accepts
Go to your state's DMV website and search for "change address" or "address change documents." Most states have a page that lists exactly which documents they accept and how recent they need to be. The list usually breaks down by category — utility bills, lease agreements, government mail — so you can see what you have at home that will work.
If the website is unclear, call your state DMV's general line and ask: "What documents do I need to bring to change my driver license address?" Have your state ready when you call. Some states also let you chat with an agent through their website instead of calling.
Changing your address online or by mail instead of in person
Many states let you change your address without visiting the DMV if you have not moved out of state. You may be able to do it through your state's DMV website, by mail, or through a kiosk at a grocery store or pharmacy. The documents you need are usually the same — your license and proof of address — but you submit them differently.
If you change your address online, you typically upload a photo of your proof-of-address document and confirm your license number. If you change it by mail, you send copies of both documents to the address listed on your state's DMV website. Check your state's website to see which methods are available and whether there is a fee.
If you moved out of state, you will almost always need to visit the DMV in person or explore for a new license in your new state. Some states let you change the address on your old license by mail even after moving, but most require you to get a new license from your new state within a certain time frame.
What to bring to the DMV
Bring your current driver license and one proof-of-address document in their original form — not copies, unless your state specifically says copies are acceptable. Bring them in a folder or envelope so they do not get bent or damaged while you wait. If you are changing the address for someone else (like a minor), bring their license and your proof of address, plus any documents showing you have authority to make the change (like a custody order or power of attorney).
Bring your Social Security number written down or memorized, because you will need to provide it when you fill out the form. You do not need to bring the card itself. If you have changed your name since your license was issued, bring a document showing the name change, like a marriage certificate or court order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a bank statement as proof of address?
Most states accept bank statements if they show your name, address, and are dated within the last 30 to 90 days. Check your state's DMV website to confirm, because a few states do not accept bank statements. If your state does accept them, bring the original statement, not a copy.
What if my proof-of-address document is not in my name?
It will not work. The document must show your name and your new address. If you live with someone else and the utility bill is in their name, ask them to bring a bill in their name and a document showing you live there (like a lease in your name), or get a bill transferred to your name before you go to the DMV.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
It depends on your state. Some states let you change the address on an expired license if it expired recently. Others require you to renew your license at the same time you change the address. Check your state's DMV website or call to find out whether you need to renew or if an address change alone is allowed.
Do I need an appointment to change my address at the DMV?
Many states now require appointments for DMV visits, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check your state's website to see if you need to book a time slot. Even if appointments are not required, going early in the day usually means a shorter wait.
How long does it take to change my address?
If you go in person, the change usually takes 10 to 30 minutes once you are called. Your new license will be mailed to you within one to two weeks. If you change your address online or by mail, processing takes one to three weeks. Some states send a temporary address change document while you wait for your new license.