Where to change your address on your Washington driver license

You can change your address with the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) in three ways: online through their website, by mail, or in person at a DOL office. The online method is fastest — you can update your address in minutes without leaving home, and the change takes effect when ready. If you prefer to go in person, you can walk into any DOL office with your current license and proof of your new address.

The mail option takes longer (typically two to three weeks for processing) but works if you cannot reach an office or use the online system. You will need to send your current license along with a form and proof of address to the DOL mailing address.

Key Takeaways

  • Washington's online address change system is the fastest option and updates your license when ready without a fee.
  • You will need proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
  • In-person changes at a DOL office take about 15 minutes and require your current license and address proof.
  • If you mail your license to DOL, include a completed form and proof of address, and expect two to three weeks for processing.

Changing your address online

Go to the Washington DOL website and select the option to change your address on your driver license or ID card. You will need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to log in. The system will ask you to enter your new address and confirm it.

After you submit, the system will show you a confirmation number. Your address updates right away in the DOL system, and you do not pay a fee. Your physical license card still shows your old address until it expires and you renew it, but law enforcement and other agencies can see your current address in their records.

Changing your address in person at a DOL office

Bring your current driver license and one document that proves your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail (like a tax return or benefits letter) dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail with your name and new address will work.

Walk up to the counter at any Washington DOL office and tell them you want to change your address. They will scan your license, verify your new address document, and update your record on the spot. There is no fee. Your physical license still shows your old address, but your record in the system changes when ready. You can find DOL office locations and hours on their website.

Changing your address by mail

read the process for Washington Driver License or ID Card (form DL 44) from the DOL website, or call 360-902-3900 to request one. Fill out the form with your new address and sign it. Include a copy of one document that proves your new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within 60 days).

Mail your current license, the completed form, and your address proof to the Washington Department of Licensing, P.O. Box 9030, Olympia, WA 98507-9030. Do not send cash. Processing takes two to three weeks. When DOL receives your materials, they will update your address in their system and mail your license back to you at your new address.

What counts as proof of your new address

Washington DOL accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. A lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or homeowners insurance policy also works. Government mail counts too — a tax return, benefits letter, or court document with your new address will do.

The document must have your full name on it and your actual new address. A piece of mail addressed to "Resident" or to a former name will not work. If you just moved and have not received mail yet, a signed lease or a letter from your landlord on their letterhead stating your move-in date and address can work in some cases — call your local DOL office to confirm before you mail anything.

Timeline and what to expect

Online changes happen when ready. In-person changes at a DOL office take about 15 minutes, and your record updates right away. Mail-in changes take two to three weeks from the time DOL receives your envelope, plus mail delivery time on both ends.

No matter which method you use, your physical license card will still show your old address until you renew your license (which happens every five years for adults in Washington, or every three years if you are under 21). Your address in the DOL system and in law enforcement records updates when ready, so you will not have a problem if you are stopped by police or need to show your license for official purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Washington does not legally require you to update your address, but it is a good idea. An outdated address can cause problems with voter registration, jury duty notices, and official mail. Updating it is free and takes just a few minutes online.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

You can change your address online or by mail with an expired license. In person, you will need to renew your license at the same time, which costs a fee. If your license expired more than five years ago, you may need to take a written test and vision test to renew it.

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

Wait until you have a document dated within the last 60 days with your name and address on it. If you need to update your address urgently, a signed lease or a letter from your landlord on their letterhead with your move-in date may work — call your local DOL office first to confirm they will accept it.

Will changing my address cost me anything?

No. Changing your address online, in person, or by mail is free. You only pay a fee if you are also renewing your license or getting a new license card at the same time.

How long does my old address stay on my physical license card?

Your physical card keeps your old address until you renew your license. In Washington, that happens every five years for most adults. Your address in the DOL system updates right away, so official records and law enforcement will see your current address.