Change your address at the Alabama Department of Public Safety
You can change your driver's license address through the Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) in three ways: online through their website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. The online method is fastest and requires no documents — you log in, confirm your identity, and update your address in about five minutes. By mail takes one to two weeks. In person is when ready but requires a trip to an office during business hours.
You do not need to renew your license to change the address. The DPS will issue you a replacement card with the new address at no charge if you change it within 30 days of moving. After 30 days, you may be charged a replacement fee, which varies by county.
Key Takeaways
- The fastest method is online through the Alabama DPS website, which takes about five minutes and requires no documents or fees.
- You can also mail a completed form to the DPS with a copy of your proof of residency, which takes one to two weeks.
- In-person changes at any DPS office are when ready, but you must bring your current license and proof of your new address.
- Change your address within 30 days of moving to avoid a replacement fee on your new card.
- Your new license card will arrive by mail within two to three weeks if you change your address online or by mail.
Change your address online through the DPS website
Go to the Alabama Department of Public Safety website and select the option to update your driver's license information. You will need your current driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to log in. Enter your new address, review it for accuracy, and submit. The DPS will mail your replacement card to the new address within two to three weeks.
Online changes are free and do not require you to upload documents. The system confirms your identity using information already on file. This method works only if your license is not suspended or revoked and you have not reported it lost or stolen.
Change your address by mail
read the DPS form for address changes from the Alabama Department of Public Safety website, or call your local DPS office to request one. Fill out the form completely, including your current license number and new address. Make a copy of one document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days all work.
Mail the completed form and your proof of residency to the address listed on the form. Include your current driver's license if you want the DPS to mail your replacement card to your new address. Processing takes one to two weeks. You will receive your new card by mail.
Change your address in person at a DPS office
Bring your current driver's license and one document showing your new address to any Alabama DPS office. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days is acceptable. Tell the clerk you need to update your address. They will process the change when ready and issue you a replacement card on the spot.
DPS offices are located in most counties. Hours vary by location, so check the Alabama Department of Public Safety website for the office nearest you and its hours before you go. Bring your current license even if it is damaged — the clerk needs it to process the change.
What counts as proof of your new address
The Alabama DPS accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. These 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 document such as a voter registration card or tax return. A letter from your landlord or property manager on official letterhead also works if it includes your name, the property address, and the date.
The document must be an original or certified copy — photocopies are not accepted. If your name on the document does not match your name on your license exactly, bring a second document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
Timeline and what happens next
If you change your address online or by mail, your replacement card arrives by mail within two to three weeks. During this time, your old address remains on file with the DPS. If you need to drive before the new card arrives, your current license is still valid — the address on it does not have to match where you live.
If you change your address in person, you receive your new card when ready. The old card is no longer valid once you receive the replacement. Keep the new card in a safe place; if you lose it, you will need to report it to the DPS and request another replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address within a certain time after moving?
Alabama law requires you to notify the DPS of an address change within 30 days of moving. If you change it within 30 days, the replacement card is free. After 30 days, you may be charged a replacement fee. The amount varies by county, so contact your local DPS office for the exact cost.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
No. You must resolve the suspension or revocation first. Contact the Alabama DPS to find out why your license is suspended or revoked and what steps you need to take. Once it is cleared, you can update your address through any of the three methods.
What if I move out of state?
You should update your address with the Alabama DPS before you move, or within 30 days of moving. If you plan to get a driver's license in your new state, you will need to surrender your Alabama license. Contact your new state's DMV for their requirements.
Can someone else change my address for me?
No. Only you can change your address on your license. If you are unable to go in person or mail the form yourself, you can have someone help you complete the online change, but you must be the one to submit it using your license number and Social Security number.