You can change your Georgia driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a DDS office

Georgia allows you to update your address without renewing your license. The fastest route is the online system at DDS.georgia.gov, which takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you cannot use the online system, you can mail a form to your regional DDS office or walk in during business hours. Your new address will print on your next license renewal — your current license stays valid until its expiration date.

The method you choose depends on whether you have a Real ID-compliant license and how quickly you need the change recorded. All three routes update the same state database, so the address change takes effect when ready even if your physical license does not change yet.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change at DDS.georgia.gov is free and the fastest option if your license is Real ID-compliant.
  • You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to change your address online.
  • If you cannot use the online system, you can mail Form DL-43 to your regional DDS office or visit in person with your license and proof of your new address.
  • Your current license remains valid after an address change; the new address prints on your next renewal.
  • Address changes take effect when ready in the state database, even though your physical license will not reflect the new address until renewal.

Changing your address online through DDS.georgia.gov

The online system is available to anyone with a Real ID-compliant Georgia driver's license. Go to DDS.georgia.gov, select "Change Address Online," and enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will pull up your current information and let you enter your new address.

After you submit, you will receive a confirmation number. Save this number — it proves you made the change if you need to show proof later. The address updates in the state system within minutes. You do not need to pay a fee or provide proof of your new address when you change it online.

If the online system rejects your information or you do not have a Real ID license, use the mail or in-person methods instead.

Mailing a form to change your address

read Form DL-43 from DDS.georgia.gov or pick one up at any DDS office. Fill in your current information and your new address. You will need to include a copy of your driver's license (front and back) and one document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work.

Mail the completed form and documents to your regional DDS office. You can find the mailing address for your region on the DDS website by entering your county. Processing typically takes two to three weeks from the date DDS receives your envelope.

Keep a copy of everything you mail. If your envelope gets lost, you will have proof of what you sent.

Changing your address in person at a DDS office

Bring your current Georgia driver's license and one document showing your new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage, or bank statement). Walk into any DDS office during business hours — no appointment is needed for an address change. Tell the staff member you want to update your address.

The staff member will verify your information and process the change on the spot. You will receive a confirmation, and the address updates when ready in the state system. This method takes about 15 minutes and costs nothing.

DDS offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some locations open Saturday mornings. Find your nearest office and hours at DDS.georgia.gov.

What counts as proof of your new address

Georgia accepts several documents to verify a new address. A current utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a signed lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a government-issued document with your new address all work. The document must show your name and the new address clearly.

If you are changing your address online, you do not need to provide proof — the online system does not require it. For mail or in-person changes, bring one of these documents with you or include a copy with your mailed form.

What happens to your current license after an address change

Your current driver's license remains valid and legal to use after you change your address. The old address printed on the card does not make it invalid. Police and other officials can see your current address in the state database even though your physical license shows the old one.

The new address will print on your license when you renew. In Georgia, licenses expire on your birthday four years after you receive them. You can renew early if you want the new address on your card sooner, but there is no requirement to do so.

Changing your address if you do not have a Real ID license

If your license does not have a gold star in the upper right corner, it is not Real ID-compliant and the online system will not accept your information. Use the mail or in-person method instead.

You can upgrade to a Real ID license at any time by visiting a DDS office with your current license, proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your address. The fee is the same as a regular renewal. Once you have a Real ID license, you can use the online address change system for any future updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to change my address?

Online changes take effect within minutes. Mailed forms take two to three weeks from the date DDS receives them. In-person changes at a DDS office happen when ready, usually within 15 minutes.

Do I need to change my address if I just moved?

You are not required to update your address when ready, but it is a good idea to do so. Your license is still valid with the old address, but having your current address on file helps with voter registration, vehicle registration, and other state records.

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

Yes. An address change is separate from your license status. You can update your address even if your license is suspended or revoked. The address change does not affect your suspension or revocation status.

What if I moved out of state?

If you no longer live in Georgia, you should not update your Georgia address to an out-of-state address. Instead, you will need to get a driver's license from your new state. You can keep your Georgia license as a non-driver ID if you want, but it will not be valid for driving.

Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance?

Changing your address does not affect your driving record or insurance rates. Your insurance company may ask you to update your address with them separately, but the address change with DDS is independent of your insurance policy.