The fastest way to change your address in Washington
You can change your address on your Washington driver license or ID card online through the Department of Licensing (DOL) website, by mail, or in person at a licensing office. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing if you do not need a replacement card. If you change your address online, your current card remains valid; the DOL updates your record in their system, and you do not receive a new physical card unless you request one.
If you want a new card printed with your updated address, you can request one during the online process for a $20 fee, or you can go to a licensing office in person and walk out with a new card the same day. Mail is the slowest option and typically takes 2 to 3 weeks.
Key Takeaways
- Washington's online address change through the DOL website takes 10 minutes, costs nothing, and updates your record when ready without issuing a new card.
- You can request a replacement card with your new address printed on it for $20 during the online process or in person at a licensing office.
- In-person visits at a licensing office let you get a new card the same day, but you will need to bring proof of your new address.
- Mail-in address changes require a completed form and proof of address, and take 2 to 3 weeks to process.
- You do not need to renew your license early to change your address — the change is separate from your license expiration date.
Changing your address online
Go to the Washington Department of Licensing website and select "Change Address" under the driver license section. You will need your current driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and ask for your new address.
Once you submit the change online, it is processed when ready. Your record updates in the DOL system, and you can use your old card as proof of identity — the address on the physical card does not matter once the change is recorded. If you want a replacement card with the new address printed on it, you can add that request during the online process for $20. The replacement card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
Getting a new card in person at a licensing office
Walk into any Washington licensing office with proof of your new address and your current driver license or ID card. Acceptable proof of address includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. The office will update your record and issue a new card on the spot — you will have it before you leave.
There is no fee to change your address in person; you only pay if you are renewing your license at the same time. Bring your current license and one piece of proof of address. If you do not have proof of address with you, you can complete the change online instead and avoid the trip.
Changing your address by mail
read the "Change of Address" form from the Washington Department of Licensing website, or call 360-902-3900 to request one. Fill out the form with your current license number, new address, and signature. Include one piece of proof of address — a utility bill, lease, or recent government mail — and mail everything to the address listed on the form.
Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks. You will not receive a new card unless you request one and pay the $20 replacement fee. Your old card remains valid during this time, and your address change is recorded in the system even though the physical card still shows your old address.
What counts as proof of your new address
Washington accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. These include utility bills (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax statements, homeowners insurance documents, and government mail from federal, state, or local agencies. A bank statement or credit card statement does not count.
If you are moving and do not yet have a document in your name at the new address, you can use a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead, stating your name, the new address, and the move-in date. Some licensing offices will also accept a notarized statement if you explain your situation.
Timing and what happens to your current license
Changing your address does not affect your license expiration date. Your license remains valid for the same number of years, whether you change the address online, in person, or by mail. You do not need to renew early, and the address change does not cost anything unless you request a replacement card.
If you change your address online without requesting a new card, your old card with the old address printed on it is still legal to use. The DOL system shows your current address, and that is what matters for law enforcement, vehicle registration, and other official purposes. Many people keep their old card and never request a replacement.
Changing your address when you renew your license
If your license is expiring soon, you can change your address and renew at the same time. You can renew online through the DOL website if you are not changing your photo, or you can go to a licensing office in person. When you renew in person, you can update your address at the same time for no additional fee — you only pay the standard renewal cost.
Online renewal with an address change takes about 15 minutes. You will receive a new card by mail in 7 to 10 business days with both your updated address and a new expiration date. If you renew in person at an office, you can get a new card the same day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address if I move?
Washington law requires you to notify the Department of Licensing of a change of address within a reasonable time after you move. There is no specific important date, but it is best to update it within 30 days to avoid problems with vehicle registration, mail from the DOL, or law enforcement records. Changing your address is free and takes 10 minutes online.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
Yes, you can change your address even if your license is suspended or revoked. The address change is separate from the status of your license. Update your address so the DOL can reach you about reinstatement requirements or other notices.
What if I moved out of state?
If you moved to another state, you should get a driver license in that state. You can still update your Washington address in the DOL system if you need to, but you will eventually need to transfer your license to your new state of residence. Check your new state's licensing requirements for the timeline.
How long does it take to get a replacement card with my new address?
If you request a replacement card online, it arrives in 7 to 10 business days. If you go to a licensing office in person, you get the new card the same day. Mail-in requests take 2 to 3 weeks.
Can I change my address without getting a new card?
Yes. Change your address online through the DOL website without requesting a replacement card. Your record updates when ready, and your old card remains valid. You only get a new card if you request one and pay the $20 fee.