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 license or paying a fee. You have three routes: the fastest is online through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website if your license is valid and you have no suspensions; by mail if you prefer not to go in person; or in person at any DDS office if you need it done the same day or your license has restrictions that prevent online changes.

The online method takes about 10 minutes and your updated license arrives in 7 to 10 business days. Mail takes 2 to 3 weeks. In-person service is when ready — you walk out with a temporary paper license valid until your plastic card arrives. You will need proof of your new address no matter which method you choose.

Key Takeaways

  • Georgia allows address changes online, by mail, or in person, and none of these methods charge a fee.
  • Online changes work only if your current license is valid and has no active suspensions or restrictions.
  • You must provide proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days.
  • An in-person visit at a DDS office gives you a temporary license the same day, while online and mail methods take 7 to 21 days.

Changing your address online through the DDS website

Go to dds.georgia.gov and select "Change Address Online" from the homepage. You will need your current Georgia driver's 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.

After you submit, you will see a confirmation number on screen — write it down or take a screenshot. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your old license until the new one arrives. This method works only if your license is currently valid and not suspended, revoked, or restricted.

Mailing in an address change form

read the Form DL-43 (Address Change) from the DDS website or pick one up at any DDS office. Fill in your name, driver's license number, and new address. Attach a copy of proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. Mail the form and proof to the address listed on the form.

Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date DDS receives your envelope. Keep your old license until the new one arrives. This method works for all drivers, including those with suspensions or restrictions, though a suspension will still prevent you from legally driving.

Updating your address in person at a DDS office

Bring your current Georgia driver's license, proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement from the last 60 days), and proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form). Walk into any DDS office during business hours — no appointment is needed, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

The staff member will verify your information and issue you a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid until your plastic license arrives in 7 to 10 business days. This is the fastest way to have a valid updated license in hand. There is no fee for an address change.

What counts as proof of your new address

Georgia accepts documents dated within 60 days of your visit or submission. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name is the most common choice. A lease agreement or mortgage statement with your name and new address also works. Bank statements, credit card statements, and insurance documents are acceptable if they show your name and address.

The document must show your full name and the complete new address. A post office change-of-address form does not count. If you recently moved and have not yet received a bill at the new address, ask your utility company for a letter confirming your new service address, or use your lease or mortgage paperwork instead.

Timeline and what to expect after you submit

Online submissions are processed within 7 to 10 business days. Mail submissions take 2 to 3 weeks from receipt. In-person visits are completed the same day, and you leave with a temporary license. Your permanent plastic license is mailed to your new address and should arrive within 7 to 10 business days of approval.

If you do not receive your new license within 15 business days of submission, contact DDS at 678-413-8400 to check the status. Have your confirmation number (if you submitted online) or your driver's license number ready. Do not assume the mail was lost — DDS processes thousands of changes weekly, and delays of a few extra days are common.

When you cannot change your address online

The online method is blocked if your license is suspended, revoked, expired for more than two years, or marked with certain restrictions. If you fall into any of these categories, use the mail method or visit a DDS office in person. A suspended or revoked license means you cannot legally drive regardless of whether your address is current, so address changes alone will not restore your driving privileges.

If your license is expired but not suspended, you may be able to renew and change your address at the same time online. If you are unsure whether your license is suspended, call DDS at 678-413-8400 or check your status on the DDS website before attempting an online change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my address if I moved out of state?

Yes, you should obtain a driver's license from your new state within the timeframe that state requires — typically 30 to 60 days after moving. Your Georgia license remains valid for driving in Georgia and other states until it expires, but your new state of residence usually requires you to get a local license. Check your new state's DMV website for their specific rules.

What if I moved but do not have a utility bill yet at my new address?

Use your lease agreement, mortgage statement, or a letter from your utility company confirming your new service address. If you are staying with family or in temporary housing, ask the property owner for a signed letter on their letterhead stating your name, their address, and the dates you are living there. DDS accepts this as proof in some cases — call ahead to confirm.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended?

Yes, you can update your address even with a suspension. Use the mail method or visit a DDS office in person. However, a suspension means you cannot legally drive, so changing your address does not restore your driving privileges. You must resolve the suspension separately through DDS or the court system.

How long does the temporary paper license last?

The temporary license issued in person is valid until your permanent plastic license arrives, which is typically 7 to 10 business days. It is a full legal license for driving purposes. If your permanent license does not arrive within 15 business days, contact DDS to report it.

Is there a fee to change my address on my Georgia driver's license?

No. Address changes are free in Georgia, whether you do it online, by mail, or in person. You only pay a fee if you need to renew your license, replace a lost license, or upgrade to a REAL ID.