You can change your address at the DMV office in person, by mail, or online through Alabama's system

Alabama lets you update your driver's license address without getting a new license card. The fastest way is to visit an Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person — you can walk in, show proof of your new address, and walk out with the change recorded the same day. If you cannot get to an office, you can mail in a form, though that takes longer. Alabama also offers an online option for certain address changes, though it has limits on what it covers.

The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the change and what documents you have on hand. Each route requires proof that you actually live at the new address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement all work. You do not need to pay a fee for an address change alone.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit any Alabama DPS office with your current license and a document showing your new address to change it in person the same day.
  • Acceptable address proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and new address.
  • If you mail in a change, send Form DL-43 (Address Change) to the address on the form; processing takes several weeks.
  • Online address changes through Alabama's system work only if your address change is within the state and your license is not suspended or expired.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

Walking into an Alabama DPS office is the most straightforward route. Bring your current driver's license and one document that shows your name and new address. A recent utility bill (electric, water, gas), a signed lease, a mortgage statement, or a piece of government mail all count. The staff will verify the document, update your record, and you leave with your license showing the new address.

You do not need an appointment at most offices, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Early morning or mid-week visits tend to be faster. Find the office nearest you on the Alabama DPS website — there are locations in most counties. Bring your Social Security number if you have it, though your license number works too.

Mailing in an address change form

If you cannot visit an office, you can mail Form DL-43 (Address Change) to the Alabama DPS. You can read this form from the Alabama DPS website or call your local office to request one by mail. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Include a copy of your address proof document — do not send the original.

Mail the completed form and your address proof copy to the address listed on the form itself. Processing takes three to four weeks from the day the DPS receives it, so mail early if you have a important date. You will not receive a new card; the change will be recorded in the system, and your current license remains valid with the old address printed on it until it expires and you renew.

Using Alabama's online address change system

Alabama offers an online option through its DPS portal, but it only works in specific situations. You can use it if your address change is within Alabama, your license is not expired, and your license is not suspended or revoked. If any of those do not explore to you, you will need to use the in-person or mail method instead.

To use the online system, visit the Alabama DPS website and look for the online services section. You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will ask you to enter your new address and confirm it. Once submitted, the change is recorded in the system, though again, your physical card will still show the old address until you renew your license.

What counts as proof of your new address

The DPS accepts several types of documents as proof that you live at your new address. A utility bill (electric, water, gas, or internet) in your name dated within the last 60 days is the most common choice. A signed lease agreement, a mortgage statement, property tax bill, or homeowner's insurance declaration all work too. Government mail — such as a tax return, voter registration card, or court document — also counts if it shows your name and new address.

The document must show your full name and your complete new address. A bank statement or credit card statement usually does not count unless it is from a government agency. If you are moving in with someone else and do not have a utility bill in your name yet, a signed letter from the property owner or leaseholder stating that you live there, along with a utility bill showing their name at that address, may work — call your local DPS office first to confirm.

Timeline and what happens to your physical card

An in-person change takes effect when ready — your record is updated the same day you visit. A mailed form takes three to four weeks from receipt. An online change also takes effect when ready in the system. In all cases, your physical driver's license card keeps the old address printed on it until you renew your license, which happens every four or eight years depending on your age.

The address in the system is what matters for traffic stops, vehicle registration, and official records. Police and other officials can see the current address on file even though your card shows the old one. When you renew your license — whether you do it in person, by mail, or online — you will receive a new card with your current address printed on it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address if I move?

Alabama law requires you to notify the DPS of a change of address within a reasonable time after moving. While there is no specific important date listed in statute, updating it within 30 days is standard practice. Keeping your address current helps avoid problems with vehicle registration and official notices.

What if I do not have a utility bill or lease in my name yet?

Call your local DPS office and ask what they will accept. A signed letter from your landlord or property owner on their letterhead, paired with a utility bill showing their name at that address, often works. Some offices also accept a notarized statement of residency. Having a backup option ready before you visit saves a trip.

Can I change my address online if my license is expired?

No, the online system only works if your license is current. If your license is expired, you must visit an office in person or mail in Form DL-43. You may also want to renew your license at the same time, which you can do in person or by mail.

Will I get a new card with my new address on it?

Not when ready. Your current card keeps the old address until you renew your license at its regular renewal date. When you renew, you will receive a new card with your updated address. If you need the new address on your card sooner, you can request a duplicate license, though that costs a fee.

What if I moved out of state?

If you moved to another state, you should get a driver's license from your new state instead of just changing your Alabama address. Each state requires residents to get a license from that state. You can keep your Alabama license as a second ID if you want, but your primary license should be from where you live now.