The fastest way to update your address
You can change your address on a Florida driver's license online through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) website, by mail, or in person at a driver's license office. The online method takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing if your license is not expiring within the next 30 days. If it is expiring soon, you will need to renew at the same time, which adds a fee.
You do not need to take a new photo or pass a vision test just to change your address — the state treats an address change as a separate transaction from a renewal. However, if you choose to renew your license while updating your address, you can do both in one visit or one online session.
Key Takeaways
- Online address changes through the DHSMV website are free and take about 10 minutes if your license does not expire within 30 days.
- You will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address to change your address online.
- If your license expires within 30 days, you must renew it at the same time you change your address, which costs $48 for an eight-year license.
- In-person address changes at a driver's license office take about 15 to 30 minutes and require your current license and proof of your new address.
- Mail-in address changes require a completed form, a copy of your license, and proof of your new address, and take two to three weeks to process.
Changing your address online
Go to the DHSMV website at flhsmv.gov and look for the "Online Services" section. Click on "Change Address" or "Update Your Information." You will be asked to enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will pull up your current license record.
Enter your new address exactly as you want it to appear on your license. Double-check the spelling and zip code — this is the address the state will use for voter registration, vehicle registration, and any official mail. Once you submit, you will receive a confirmation number. Your address change takes effect when ready in the DHSMV system, though your physical license will still show the old address until you renew.
If the online system tells you that your license expires within 30 days, you cannot change your address alone — you must renew your license at the same time. In that case, the system will guide you to the renewal process, which costs $48 for a standard eight-year license. You can complete the renewal online if you have a digital photo on file or are willing to use the camera on your computer.
Changing your address in person at a driver's license office
Visit any Florida driver's license office with your current driver's license and one document that proves your new address. Acceptable proof includes a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail with your name and new address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.
Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, such as a tax return or W-2. You do not need to bring your birth certificate or passport for an address-only change. Tell the clerk at the counter that you want to change your address, not renew your license.
The transaction takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is. You will not need to take a new photo or pass a vision test. Your address change is recorded when ready, and you will receive a receipt. Your physical license still shows the old address, but the DHSMV system reflects your new address right away for purposes like vehicle registration and voter records.
Changing your address by mail
read the "Change of Address" form from the DHSMV website or request one by calling 1-844-33-FLHSMV (1-844-335-4768). Fill out the form completely with your current license number, new address, and signature. Make a copy of the front and back of your current driver's license.
Include one document proving your new address — the same documents accepted in person work by mail, such as a utility bill or lease. Mail everything to the address listed on the form, which varies by region. Processing takes two to three weeks. You will receive a confirmation letter at your new address, and your address change will be active in the DHSMV system, though your physical license will not change until you renew.
What happens to your physical license
Changing your address does not issue you a new physical license card. Your current license remains valid and continues to work as identification, even though it shows your old address. The DHSMV system updates when ready, so when you register a vehicle, get a new vehicle registration, or interact with law enforcement, the officer or clerk will see your new address on their screen.
Your old address will remain printed on the card itself until you renew your license. You can renew at any time before your expiration date if you want a card with your new address on it, though this is not required. Renewal costs $48 for an eight-year license and can be done online, by mail, or in person.
If your license expires within 30 days
The online system will not let you change your address alone if your license expires within 30 days. Instead, you must renew your license and change your address together. The renewal process takes about 15 minutes online and costs $48. You can upload a digital photo or take one with your computer's camera.
If you prefer not to renew online, you can visit a driver's license office in person to change your address and renew your license at the same time. Bring your current license, proof of your new address, and proof of your Social Security number. The in-person transaction takes about 30 minutes and costs $48.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change my address on my vehicle registration too?
Yes, but the DHSMV updates your vehicle registration address automatically when you change your driver's license address. You do not need to file a separate form. However, if you want to change only your vehicle registration address without changing your driver's license, you can do that separately through the DHSMV website or at a tax collector's office.
What if I do not have proof of my new address?
You will need at least one document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and new address. If you have just moved and do not have a utility bill or lease yet, ask your landlord for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your move-in date and address. Some offices also accept a notarized affidavit of residency if you cannot obtain other proof.
How long does it take to change my address online?
The online process takes about 10 minutes from start to finish. Your address change is active in the DHSMV system when ready after you submit. You will receive a confirmation number on screen and by email.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
No. You cannot change your address, renew, or update any information on a suspended or revoked license. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation through the DHSMV. Contact the DHSMV at 1-844-33-FLHSMV to find out why your license is suspended and what steps you need to take.
Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance?
Changing your address does not affect your driving record or insurance rates. However, you should notify your insurance company of your address change separately, as they maintain their own records. Some insurers may adjust your rate based on your new location, but that is a separate decision from the address change itself.