Change your address online, by mail, or in person at a DDS office

Georgia lets you update your driver's license address without getting a new card. The fastest way is online through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you prefer to do it in person or by mail, both options are available, though they take longer.

You do not need to visit an office unless you want to. Most people change their address online because it is the quickest route and your updated information shows up in the system right away, even though your physical card still has the old address printed on it.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method through the DDS website is free and takes about 10 minutes, with no appointment needed.
  • You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and date of birth to change your address online.
  • Your address updates in the system when ready after online submission, but your physical card keeps the old address until it expires or you renew it.
  • If you change your address in person at a DDS office, you can get a replacement card with the new address printed on it for a fee.
  • Mail-in address changes take the longest and require you to send documents by post, so most people skip this option.

Changing your address online through the DDS website

Go to dds.georgia.gov and look for the "Change Address" option in the driver services section. You will need to log in or create an account with your driver's license number and other personal information. Have your Social Security number and date of birth ready.

Enter your new address exactly as you want it to appear in the system. Double-check the spelling and zip code before you submit. Once you confirm, the change is complete. You will receive a confirmation email, and your address is updated in Georgia's system when ready. Your old physical card remains valid — the address on the card itself does not change until you renew your license.

This method works for address changes only. If you need a new card with the updated address printed on it, you will need to visit a DDS office in person and pay a replacement fee.

Getting a replacement card with your new address at a DDS office

If you want a physical card with your new address printed on it, visit any DDS office in Georgia. Bring your current driver's license, proof of your new address, and payment for the replacement card fee. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days — it must show your name and new address.

You do not need an appointment at most DDS offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Check the DDS website for your local office hours and current wait times before you go. The replacement card is issued on the spot in most cases, though some offices may mail it to you.

The replacement card fee varies but is typically under $35. You will keep your current license number — only the address and issue date on the card change.

Changing your address by mail

You can mail a request to the Georgia DDS, but this is the slowest option and most people avoid it. You will need to send a completed form (available on the DDS website), a copy of your driver's license, and proof of your new address. Mail everything to the address listed on the DDS website for address change requests.

Processing takes several weeks, and you will not receive confirmation until your address has been updated. If you need a replacement card with the new address, you will have to pay the replacement fee and wait for it to arrive by mail. This method is mainly useful if you cannot visit an office or access the online system.

What counts as proof of your new address

Georgia accepts several documents as proof of address. The document must show your name and new address, and it must be dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, a property tax bill, or a government-issued mail piece.

A piece of mail from a government agency (like a tax notice or voter registration card) also works. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of address. If you are having trouble finding an acceptable document, call your local DDS office — they can tell you what they will accept in your specific situation.

Timeline and what to expect after you change your address

If you change your address online, the update is complete when ready. Your address is active in the system right away, and you can use it for voting registration, vehicle registration, and other purposes. Your physical driver's license card still shows your old address, but that does not matter — the system has the correct information.

If you get a replacement card in person at a DDS office, you receive it on the spot or it arrives by mail within one to two weeks, depending on the office. If you change your address by mail, expect three to four weeks for processing and delivery.

When your driver's license expires, you will renew it with your current address already in the system. You do not have to do anything else unless you move again.

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 an address change within 30 days of moving. However, there is no penalty for not doing so, and your license remains valid. Updating your address is mainly important for receiving mail from the DDS and for voting registration purposes.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

Yes, you can change your address even if your license is expired. However, if your license has been expired for more than a few years, you may need to renew it instead of just changing the address. Contact your local DDS office to confirm what you need to do.

What if I do not have proof of my new address?

If you cannot find a document dated within the last 60 days, call your local DDS office and explain your situation. They may accept alternative documents or allow you to provide proof in a different way. Some offices will work with you if you are in a temporary living situation.

Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance?

Changing your address does not affect your driving record. Your insurance company may ask for your updated address, but that is a separate process — contact them directly to update your policy information.

Can I change my address online if I am out of state?

Yes, the online method works from anywhere. You only need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and date of birth. If you need a replacement card mailed to you, the DDS will send it to your new address.