Write the street address, then "Apt" and your unit number on the second line

When you fill out a driver's license form, the address section usually has two lines: one for the street address and one for city, state, and ZIP code. If you live in an apartment, write your street address on the first line, then move to the second line and write "Apt" (or "Apartment") followed by your unit number. Some forms give you a separate box labeled "Apt/Unit" — if yours does, use that box instead of writing it on the street address line.

The DMV's computer system needs to read your address clearly, so use the format your state's form shows. Most states accept either "Apt 5B" or "Apartment 5B" — check your specific form's instructions, usually printed at the top of the address section. If the form shows an example, follow that exact layout.

Do not include your apartment number in the main street address line. Writing "123 Main Street Apt 5B" all on one line can confuse the system or cause the address to be entered incorrectly into the database. Keeping the apartment number separate ensures the DMV records both your building and your unit.

Key Takeaways

  • Write your street address on the first address line and your apartment number on the second line or in a separate "Apt/Unit" box.
  • Use the format shown on your state's form — most accept "Apt 5B" or "Apartment 5B" as standard.
  • Never combine your street address and apartment number on a single line, as this can cause data entry errors.
  • If your form has a dedicated apartment box, use that instead of adding it to the street address line.
  • Your address on the license must match the address on your proof of residency document, so write it exactly as it appears on that document.

Match your apartment address to your proof of residency

The DMV requires you to bring a document that proves you live at the address you're listing on your license — usually a utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the past 30 to 60 days. Your apartment address on the license form must match the address on that document word-for-word, including the apartment number.

If your proof document says "Unit 5B," write "Unit 5B" on the form. If it says "Apt 5B," write "Apt 5B." If it says "#5B," you can write "#5B" or "Apt 5B" — most DMVs accept both, but matching exactly avoids any hold-up. Check your proof document before you fill out the form so you write it the same way.

What happens if you write your apartment number incorrectly

If you write your apartment number wrong or leave it off entirely, the DMV may issue a license with an incomplete address. This creates problems later: mail from the state won't reach you, your address won't match records if you're pulled over, and updating it requires another trip to the DMV.

If you catch the error before you submit the form, cross it out neatly and write the correct number. If the form becomes too messy, ask for a new blank form. Once the license is printed, you'll need to visit the DMV in person to request a correction — most states charge a small fee for a replacement license, though some waive it for address errors made by the applicant.

Bring your lease or utility bill to the DMV

You cannot straightforward write down an apartment address — you must bring physical proof that you live there. The DMV accepts a lease agreement, utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet), bank or credit card statement, or government mail addressed to you at that apartment. The document must show your full name, the complete apartment address, and a date within the past 30 to 60 days (rules vary by state).

If your lease doesn't show the apartment number clearly, bring a utility bill as well. If you just moved in and don't have a recent bill yet, a signed lease with the move-in date usually works. Call your state's DMV before you go to confirm which documents they accept — some states have different rules for apartments versus houses.

Special cases: PO boxes and temporary addresses

You cannot use a PO box as your driver's license address — the DMV requires a physical street address where you actually live. If you're using a mailbox service (like UPS Store or similar), you can use that address if it's formatted as a street address (for example, "123 Main Street, Suite 4" rather than "PO Box 4"). Bring proof that you rent that mailbox space.

If you're staying temporarily with family or in a short-term rental, you can still use that address on your license. Bring a lease, utility bill, or a notarized letter from the person who owns or rents the place, stating that you live there and for how long. Some states also accept a recent piece of mail addressed to you at that location.

Updating your address after you move to a new apartment

Once your license is issued, you can update your address without renewing the entire license — most states call this an "address change" and charge less than a full renewal. You'll fill out a shorter form, bring new proof of residency at the new apartment, and the DMV will issue you a new card with the updated address.

Some states let you change your address online or by mail if you're moving within the state. Check your state's DMV website to see if you can do it without visiting in person. If you must go to the DMV, bring the same proof documents you brought for your original license: a lease or utility bill showing your new apartment address and your name.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I write "Apt" or do I have to write "Apartment"?

Most states accept both "Apt" and "Apartment" — check your form's instructions or examples. "Apt" is shorter and more common on driver's licenses. If your proof of residency document uses one form, match that to be safe.

What if my apartment doesn't have a number, just a letter?

Write it exactly as it appears on your lease or proof document. If your apartment is "5B" or "Building A," write it that way. The DMV's system can handle letters and numbers — just make sure it matches your proof document.

Do I need to bring my lease to the DMV, or just a utility bill?

Either works, but check your state's rules first — some prefer utility bills because they're dated recently. A lease is fine if it's signed and shows the current address and your name. Bring whichever document you have that's most recent and clearly shows your apartment number.

What if I live in a building with no apartment numbers?

Write your street address as it appears on your mail and proof documents. If the building has no apartment designation, the street address alone is enough. The DMV doesn't require an apartment number if the building doesn't use them.

Can I change my address online instead of going to the DMV?

Many states offer online address changes for driver's licenses, but rules vary. Visit your state's DMV website to see if you can update your apartment address without visiting in person. Some states still require you to come in and show proof of residency.