Where and how to report your address change
You can change your address on a Minnesota driver's license through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS). The fastest route is online through the state's website if your change is recent and your license is valid. If you need to update your address in person, you can visit any DVS exam station or deputy registrar office across the state.
Online changes take effect when ready and cost nothing. The state processes the update within one business day, and you do not need to pay a fee or receive a new card in the mail unless you request one. If you change your address online, your current license remains valid at your old address — the state's records update, but the physical card does not change.
If you cannot change your address online, you will need to visit a DVS office or deputy registrar in person. Bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Proof can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 30 days.
Key Takeaways
- Online address changes through the Minnesota DVS website are free, take effect when ready, and do not require a new card to be mailed.
- If you change your address online, your physical license card keeps your old address but your state record updates within one business day.
- In-person changes at a DVS exam station or deputy registrar require your current license and proof of your new address dated within 30 days.
- You can request a replacement card with your new address printed on it, but this costs money and takes several business days to arrive.
When you need to change your address online versus in person
Use the online method if your license is not expired, you have not changed your name, and your address change is recent. The Minnesota DVS website has a dedicated form for address updates that takes about five minutes to complete. You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to log in.
Visit a DVS office or deputy registrar in person if your license has expired, if you changed your name at the same time, or if the online system rejects your request. Some people also prefer in-person visits because they can request a replacement card with the new address printed on it when ready, rather than waiting for mail. In-person visits typically take 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is.
What documents you need for an in-person address change
Bring your current Minnesota driver's license and one document that proves your new address. The proof document must be dated within the last 30 days and show your full name and new street address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax statement, or government mail such as a tax notice or voter registration card.
If you do not have a document dated within 30 days, you can bring two documents that are older, as long as they both show your name and address and one of them is from a government agency. A bank statement combined with a property tax bill, for example, may work. Call your local DVS office ahead of time if you are unsure whether your documents will be accepted.
How to find a DVS office or deputy registrar near you
The Minnesota DVS maintains a searchable list of all exam stations and deputy registrar offices on its website. You can search by city, county, or ZIP code. Most larger cities have multiple locations, and many smaller towns have at least one deputy registrar office that handles license transactions.
Deputy registrars are often located in city halls, county offices, or local government buildings. They handle the same address-change transactions as DVS exam stations and do not charge extra fees. Hours vary by location, so check the office hours before you visit. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others require you to book an appointment online or by phone.
What happens if you move and do not update your address
Your license remains valid even if your address on the card no longer matches where you live. However, law enforcement may question why your license shows a different address, and you could face complications if you are pulled over. More importantly, your driver's license is often used as proof of residency for other purposes — opening a bank account, registering to vote, or updating your vehicle registration.
If you move to a new state, you will need to obtain a driver's license from that state within a set timeframe, usually 30 to 60 days depending on the state. Minnesota does not require you to surrender your old license when you move away, but you should not use it as your primary ID once you have moved.
Requesting a replacement card with your new address
If you want a new physical card printed with your updated address, you can request one when you change your address in person at a DVS office or deputy registrar. The replacement card costs money — the fee varies but is typically under $20. The new card will be mailed to your new address and usually arrives within five to seven business days.
You do not have to request a replacement card. Many people straightforward update their address in the state's system and keep their old card. The address on the card does not affect whether your license is valid; what matters is that your record in the state's database is current. If you lose your license or it is damaged, you can request a replacement at that time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address on my driver's license when I move?
Minnesota does not legally require you to update your address, but it is strongly recommended. An outdated address can cause problems when you use your license as proof of residency for banking, voting, or vehicle registration. Law enforcement may also question a mismatch between your address and where you are stopped.
Can I change my address online if my license is expired?
No. The online system only works for valid, unexpired licenses. If your license has expired, you must visit a DVS office or deputy registrar in person to renew it and update your address at the same time.
How long does it take to receive a replacement card in the mail?
A replacement card with your new address printed on it typically arrives within five to seven business days after you request it. During that time, your old card remains valid. If you need a card sooner, you can request an expedited replacement, though this costs extra.
What if I move and do not have a utility bill or lease in my name yet?
Bring two documents that show your name and new address, with at least one from a government agency. Examples include a property tax bill, voter registration card, or government mail combined with a bank statement or insurance document. Call your local DVS office to confirm your specific documents will work before you visit.
Can I change my address if I also need to renew my license?
Yes. If your license is expiring soon or has already expired, you can renew it and update your address in the same transaction at a DVS office or deputy registrar. Bring the same documents you would need for either transaction separately.