Where to change your address on your Pennsylvania driver's license

You can change your address with PennDOT (Pennsylvania Department of Transportation) in three ways: online through their website, by mail, or in person at a Driver License Center. The online method is fastest — you can update your address in minutes without leaving home, and your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you prefer to handle it in person or by mail, both routes work, but in-person visits require you to find a Driver License Center location and wait for an appointment.

Pennsylvania law does not set a important date for updating your address, but your license becomes invalid for identification purposes once you move. If you are stopped by police or need to show ID, an outdated address can create complications. Most people update their address when they renew their license, but you do not have to wait — you can change it anytime.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method through PennDOT's website is the fastest route and takes about 5 minutes; your new license arrives in 7 to 10 business days.
  • You will need your current driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid email address to change your address online.
  • If you cannot go online, you can mail a completed form DL-43 to PennDOT along with a proof-of-residency document, which takes 2 to 3 weeks.
  • In-person address changes at a Driver License Center require an appointment and proof of residency, and you receive a temporary license on the spot.

Changing your address online through PennDOT

Visit the PennDOT website and select "Change Address" under the Driver License section. You will be asked to enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. PennDOT will verify this information against their records before allowing you to proceed.

Once verified, enter your new address exactly as it appears on your proof of residency (see below for what documents count). Review the information carefully — if the address does not match your proof of residency, the system will reject it. After you confirm, PennDOT will email you a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address you just entered within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue using your old license until the new one arrives.

What counts as proof of residency

PennDOT accepts a narrow list of documents to verify your new address. The document must show your name and current address, and it must be dated within 60 days of when you submit it. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or phone), a lease or mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a bank or credit card statement, or a government-issued document such as a voter registration card or tax return.

A few documents do not count: post office change-of-address forms, cell phone bills, insurance statements, and documents with a PO box instead of a street address. If you live with someone else and the utility bill is in their name, you can use it only if you also provide a notarized statement confirming you live there. Have your proof of residency ready before you start the online process — you will need to reference the document to enter your address correctly.

Changing your address by mail

read or request form DL-43 (Address Change) from the PennDOT website or call 1-717-787-2828. Fill out the form with your current license number, new address, and signature. Attach a copy of your proof of residency (the same documents listed above) and mail both to PennDOT, P.O. Box 68467, Harrisburg, PA 17106-8467.

Processing by mail takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date PennDOT receives your envelope. You will not receive a confirmation that your mail was received, so consider using certified mail if you want proof of delivery. Your new license will be mailed to your new address once the change is processed. During this time, your old license remains valid.

Changing your address in person at a Driver License Center

Visit the PennDOT website, select "Schedule an Appointment," and choose a Driver License Center near you. Book a time slot — appointments are usually available within a few days, though wait times vary by location. Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency, and Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number.

At your appointment, a staff member will verify your information and process the address change on the spot. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed to your new address. The permanent license arrives within 7 to 10 business days. In-person visits are useful if you need to use your license when ready or if you prefer to confirm the change was processed before leaving.

What happens if you move before your new license arrives

If you submitted your address change online or by mail and then move again before your new license arrives, contact PennDOT when ready. Call 1-717-787-2828 and provide your license number and both addresses — the one you submitted and your current one. PennDOT can redirect your license to your new address, though this may delay delivery by a few extra days.

If you already received your new license at the first address and it was forwarded to you, no action is needed — the address on the license is now current. If the license was not forwarded and you did not receive it, file a report with PennDOT and request a replacement. You may be charged a replacement fee depending on the circumstances.

Address changes for commercial driver's licenses

If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), the process is the same: you can change your address online, by mail, or in person. However, CDL holders cannot use the online method if their address change involves a move to a different state. Out-of-state moves require an in-person visit or a mailed form, and you may need to provide additional documentation if your new state has different CDL requirements.

For in-state address changes only, CDL holders can use the online system just like regular license holders. If you are unsure whether your move qualifies as an in-state change, call PennDOT before submitting your request.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my address if I move within Pennsylvania?

Yes. Your license becomes invalid for identification purposes once you move, even within the state. You should update your address as soon as possible after moving, though Pennsylvania does not impose a legal important date. Changing it online takes about 5 minutes and is the fastest method.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?

Yes, you can update your address even if your license is suspended or revoked. However, you cannot renew or replace your license until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact PennDOT to understand the status of your license before attempting an address change.

What if I do not have proof of residency in my name?

If the utility bill or lease is in someone else's name, you can use it with a notarized statement confirming you live at that address. The notarized letter must be signed by a notary public and state your name, the address, and the date you moved in. Some banks and libraries offer notary services for free or a small fee.

How long does it take to receive my new license after changing my address online?

Your new license is mailed within 7 to 10 business days after you submit your address change online. This timeline assumes PennDOT receives and processes your request without delays. Your old license remains valid until the new one arrives, so you can continue using it for identification.

Can I change my address at the same time I renew my license?

Yes. When you renew your license online or in person, you will be asked to confirm or update your address as part of the renewal process. If your address has changed since your last renewal, update it during the renewal process. This way, your new license will have your current address without requiring a separate address-change transaction.