Where to go and what to bring

You update your driver license at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), though some states call it the Secretary of State or Division of Motor Vehicles. The exact name and location depend on which state issued your license. You can find your state's office online by searching "[your state] DMV" — the official website will list all branch locations and their hours.

Before you go, gather the documents that prove your new information. If you're changing your address, bring a piece of mail or utility bill showing your current address and name. If you're changing your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the legal document — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or name change order. Some states also accept a certified copy from the courthouse. Bring your current driver license and one form of identification that matches your new name, if applicable.

The exact documents vary by state. Your state's DMV website will list what counts as proof of address and proof of name change. Some states accept a lease, bank statement, or government benefits letter as proof of address; others are stricter. Calling your local DMV branch before you go saves a wasted trip.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit your state's DMV in person to update your driver license; most changes cannot be done online or by mail.
  • Bring your current license, proof of your new address or name (such as a utility bill or marriage certificate), and one form of identification that matches the change you're making.
  • Your state's DMV website lists exactly which documents it accepts for each type of change, so check before you go.
  • Processing usually takes a few minutes to an hour depending on how busy the office is, and you'll receive your updated license in the mail within one to three weeks.

Updating your address

An address change is the simplest update. Bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new address — a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail all work in most states. Your current license and a form of ID are also required, though your license itself counts as ID.

The DMV will take a new photo and print a temporary license on the spot that you can use when ready. Your permanent license arrives by mail in one to three weeks. Some states charge a small fee for an address change; others do not. Check your state's DMV website for the current fee.

Updating your name

A name change requires legal documentation. If you married, bring your marriage certificate. If you divorced, bring your divorce decree. If you changed your name through a court order, bring the order itself. These documents must be originals or certified copies — photocopies usually do not work. If your document is from another country, you may need a certified English translation.

Bring your current license and the legal document to your local DMV office. You'll be asked to sign a new process and sit for a new photo. The DMV will mail your updated license within one to three weeks. Some states charge a fee for a name change on your license; others waive it if the change is due to marriage.

What happens at the DMV office

When you arrive, take a number or check in at the front desk. A staff member will review your documents to make sure they match what the DMV requires. If something is missing or unclear, they'll tell you what else you need — this is why calling ahead helps.

Once your documents are approved, you'll be asked to sign a form confirming the information you want changed. You'll sit for a new photo for your license. The whole process usually takes 15 minutes to an hour depending on how busy the office is. You'll receive a temporary license printed on paper that you can use right away while your permanent card is being made.

Your new license is mailed to your updated address. If you're changing your address, make sure the DMV has your correct mailing address before you leave. If the address on your process is wrong, your new license will go to the old address and you'll have to return to the DMV to fix it.

How long the process takes

The in-person visit at the DMV takes 15 minutes to an hour. The mailing time for your new license is usually one to three weeks, though some states take longer during busy seasons. A few states offer expedited printing for an extra fee, which can cut the mailing time to five to seven business days.

Your temporary license is valid when ready and works for most purposes — driving, opening a bank account, boarding a plane — until your permanent license arrives. If you need your new license urgently, check whether your state offers expedited service and what it costs.

Updating your license online or by mail

Most states do not allow address or name changes by mail or online. A few states let you update your address through their DMV website if you have a Real ID-compliant license and a valid email on file, but name changes almost always require an in-person visit because the DMV needs to verify your legal documents and take a new photo.

Check your state's DMV website to see whether your specific change can be done remotely. If it can, the website will walk you through the steps. If not, you'll need to visit an office in person.

What to do if you've lost your license

If your license is lost or stolen and you need to update it at the same time — for example, you lost it after you moved — you'll need to report it lost and request a replacement with your new information. Bring proof of your new address or name along with your identification. The DMV will issue a replacement license with your updated information and mail it to you.

Some states charge a replacement fee in addition to any fee for the change itself. Your state's DMV website will list both fees. A temporary license is printed on the spot so you can drive while you wait for the permanent one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment to update my driver license?

Some DMV offices require appointments, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check your state's DMV website or call your local office to find out. If appointments are required, you can usually book one online or by phone.

What if my legal document is expired or from another country?

An expired document is usually still valid — the DMV cares that the document is real, not that it's current. If your document is from another country, bring the original plus a certified English translation. Some states accept translations from certain agencies; others accept any certified translation. Call your DMV office to confirm what they'll take.

Can someone else update my license for me?

No. You must be present in person to sign the process and sit for a new photo. The DMV will not process a license update without you there.

What if I moved to a new state?

You need a license from your new state. Visit your new state's DMV office with proof of residency, your old license, and identification. You'll get a new license with your new state's format. Your old license becomes invalid once you get the new one.

How much does it cost to update my driver license?

Fees vary by state and by the type of change. Address changes are often free or cost a few dollars. Name changes may be free (especially if due to marriage) or cost $10 to $30. Check your state's DMV website for current fees, as they change periodically.