Where to change your address and what you'll need

You can change your address on your Washington state driver license at any Department of Licensing (DOL) office in person, or online through the DOL website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route works for everyone; the online route is faster but only available if your license is not expired and you have not changed your address in the past 60 days.

For an in-person visit, bring your current driver license and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and new address. You do not need to bring anything else — the DOL staff will update your record while you wait.

If you choose to change your address online, you will need your current driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The online process takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your address online through the Washington DOL website if your license is current and you have not changed your address in the past 60 days.
  • In-person address changes at any DOL office require only your current license and proof of your new address dated within the last 60 days.
  • Online changes are processed within 7 to 10 business days and cost nothing; in-person changes are when ready but you receive an updated license by mail.
  • If your license is expired or you changed your address fewer than 60 days ago, you must visit a DOL office in person.

Finding a DOL office near you

Washington has DOL offices in most counties. The main office is in Olympia, but you can visit any branch location. To find the office closest to you, go to the Washington Department of Licensing website and use their office locator tool — you enter your city or zip code and it shows hours, address, and whether you need an appointment.

Many offices now require appointments or operate on a first-come, first-served basis depending on location and current demand. Calling ahead or checking the website before you go saves time. Some offices have shorter wait times on weekday mornings or mid-week.

What happens if you move before your license arrives

If you change your address online and then move again before your new license arrives, contact the DOL before the license ships. Call the DOL Customer Service line at 360-902-3900 and give them your new address. They can redirect the license to your updated location if you call in time.

If the license arrives at your old address, you can pick it up from the new resident or the postal carrier may return it to the DOL. If it gets lost, you will need to request a replacement license, which requires another visit to a DOL office.

Changing your address without renewing your license

An address change does not require you to renew your license early. Your current license remains valid until its expiration date, even with a new address. The DOL will straightforward mail you a new license with the updated address printed on it.

This is different from a full renewal, which happens when your license expires. If your license is expiring soon anyway, you may want to renew at the same time you change your address to avoid two separate trips or mailings. You can ask the DOL staff about combining these when you visit in person.

Online address change step-by-step

Go to the Washington DOL website and select "Change Your Address Online." You will be asked to enter your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The system will verify your information and confirm the change.

After you submit, you will see a confirmation screen with a reference number. Write this down or take a screenshot. Your updated license will be mailed within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to do anything else — the DOL handles the rest.

Address changes for commercial driver licenses

If you hold a commercial driver license (CDL), you must change your address in person at a DOL office. The online option is not available for CDL holders. Bring your current CDL and proof of your new address, just as you would for a regular license.

CDL address changes are processed the same way as standard licenses, and you will receive your updated license by mail. The in-person visit takes the same amount of time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address on my license if I move?

Washington law requires you to notify the DOL of an address change within a reasonable time after you move. While there is no specific important date, updating your address promptly ensures your license matches your current residence and that you receive important mail from the DOL at the right place.

Can I change my address by mail or phone?

No. Washington only offers online changes through the DOL website or in-person changes at a DOL office. You cannot change your address by calling or mailing a form.

What if I don't have a utility bill or lease to prove my new address?

Other documents work: a mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail addressed to you at your new address and dated within the last 60 days. Ask the DOL staff what they have on file if you are unsure whether your document will work.

Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance?

Changing your address on your license does not affect your driving record. Your insurance company may need to know about your move separately — contact them directly to update your policy address, as they maintain their own records.

How long does an in-person address change take?

An in-person address change usually takes 10 to 20 minutes at the DOL office, depending on how busy it is. You leave with your license updated when ready, though the DOL will mail you a new physical license with the updated address printed on it within 7 to 10 days.