What you can and cannot change online
Most states let you update your address online through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website. Some states also allow you to change your name, update your phone number, or correct minor information like your middle initial. However, you cannot renew an expired license online in most places, get a new photo, or change your license class online — those require an in-person visit.
The specific changes available depend on which state issued your license. Before you start, check your state's DMV website to see what your state allows. A few states do not offer online updates at all and require you to visit a DMV office or mail in a form.
If your license is expired or will expire within 30 days, you may not be able to use the online update tool. Some states require you to renew in person if your license is already expired. Check your state's rules before you begin.
Key Takeaways
- Most states allow address changes online through their DMV website, but the process and what you can change varies by state.
- You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to start an online update.
- Address changes typically take effect when ready online but may take one to two weeks to appear on your physical card.
- If your license is expired or expiring soon, you may need to renew in person instead of updating online.
- Some states charge a small fee for address changes; others do not charge anything.
Finding your state's online update tool
Go to your state's official DMV website. Search for "update driver's license" or "change address" on that site. Most state DMV websites have a link on the homepage labeled "Online Services," "Manage Your License," or "Update Your Information." Do not use a third-party website that claims to help you update your license — use only your state's official DMV site.
If you cannot find the online tool on your state's DMV website, your state may not offer online updates. In that case, you will need to visit a DMV office in person or mail a form to your state's DMV. Your state's website will tell you which method is available.
What information you will need before you start
Have these documents ready before you begin the online update:
- Your current driver's license number
- Your date of birth
- The last four digits of your Social Security number
- Your current address
- Your new address (if you are changing your address)
Some states also ask for your email address or phone number. If you are changing your name, you will need to upload a copy of the document that proves the name change — usually a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Check your state's website to see what documents it requires before you start.
Steps to update your information online
The process is similar across most states, though the exact wording and order of steps may differ:
- Go to your state's DMV website and find the online update tool.
- Click the link to update your license information.
- Enter your driver's license number and date of birth to verify your identity.
- Answer security questions or enter the last four digits of your Social Security number.
- Review the information currently on file and make the changes you need.
- Enter your new address or other updated information.
- Review the changes one more time before submitting.
- Submit the form and note any confirmation number the website provides.
Most states will show you a confirmation page with a reference number. Take a screenshot or write down this number in case you need to follow up. Some states will also send you a confirmation email.
Fees and processing time
Many states do not charge a fee for address changes made online. Some states charge between $5 and $15. Check your state's DMV website before you start to see whether a fee applies. If a fee is required, you will usually pay by credit card or debit card during the online process.
Your address change takes effect when ready in the DMV system once you submit it online. However, your physical driver's license card will still show your old address until you renew your license. Most states take one to two weeks to mail you an updated card with your new address, though some states do not send a new card and straightforward update their records. If you need proof of your new address right away, you can print a confirmation from the DMV website or use a utility bill or lease agreement instead.
What to do if the online update does not work
If you cannot complete the online update, the most common reasons are that your license is expired, your information does not match what is in the DMV system, or your state does not offer online updates for the change you need. Check your state's DMV website to see what the issue might be.
If your license is expired, you will likely need to renew it in person at a DMV office. If your information does not match — for example, if the name or date of birth in the system is spelled differently — you may need to visit a DMV office to correct it. If your state does not offer online updates for the change you need, you can mail a form to your state's DMV or visit an office in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get an updated driver's license card in the mail?
Most states mail an updated card within one to two weeks of your online submission. Some states take longer during busy periods. A few states do not send a new card for address changes and only update their records. Check your state's DMV website to see what to expect.
Can I update my address if my license is expired?
Most states do not allow online address updates if your license is expired. You will need to renew your license in person at a DMV office. Some states allow you to renew and update your address at the same time online if your license expired recently, so check your state's rules.
What if my name changed and I want to update it online?
Some states allow name changes online, but most require you to visit a DMV office in person. You will need to bring a document that proves the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. Check your state's DMV website to see whether online name changes are available.
Do I need to update my address with the DMV if I moved?
Yes. Most states require you to update your address within a certain number of days after you move — often 10 to 30 days. Driving with an outdated address on your license can result in a fine in some states. Updating online is the fastest way to comply.
Will updating my address online affect my car insurance?
No. Your insurance company has your address on file separately from your driver's license. You will need to contact your insurance company directly to update your address with them. Updating your DMV address does not automatically notify your insurance company.