Change your address online, by mail, or in person at a Washington DOL office

Washington State allows you to update your driver's license address without getting a new card. The fastest route is the online system at dol.wa.gov, which takes about ten minutes and costs nothing. If you cannot use the online option, you can mail a form to the Department of Licensing or walk into any DOL office with proof of your new address.

Your address change takes effect when ready online or the same day in person. By mail, allow five to seven business days for processing. You do not need to carry a new physical card — your old one remains valid, and the address in the system is what matters for traffic stops, vehicle registration, and official records.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change at dol.wa.gov is free and the fastest option, completing in minutes without a trip to an office.
  • You will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and proof of your new address to change it online.
  • If you mail the change, send form DL 43 with a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement showing your new address to the Department of Licensing in Olympia.
  • Changing your address does not require a new physical card; your old license stays valid and the system update is what counts.
  • In-person changes at a DOL office take effect the same day and require only your current license and one document proving your new address.

Update your address online through the DOL website

Go to dol.wa.gov and select "Change Your Address" under the driver's license section. You will need your current Washington driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The system will ask you to confirm your identity by answering security questions based on your driving record and license history.

Once you complete the online form, the change is recorded when ready in the state system. You will receive a confirmation email. No payment is required, and you do not need to visit an office or mail anything. Your old physical license card remains valid — the address change only updates the state's records.

Mail a form with proof of your new address

read or request form DL 43 (Address Change) from dol.wa.gov or call the Department of Licensing at 360-902-3900. Fill out the form with your current license number, name, and new address. You must include one document that shows your new address: a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or insurance policy dated within the last 60 days.

Mail the completed form and your proof document to:

Washington State Department of Licensing PO Box 9030 Olympia, WA 98507-9030

Processing takes five to seven business days after the Department receives your envelope. Keep a copy of what you send in case you need to follow up. There is no fee for an address change by mail.

Change your address in person at a DOL office

Visit any Washington Department of Licensing office with your current driver's license and one document proving your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government-issued mail showing your name and new address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

The office staff will update your address on the spot, and the change takes effect when ready. You do not pay a fee. Your physical license card does not change — only the address in the state system updates. If you want a new card with your updated address printed on it, you can request one, but that requires a new photo and costs the standard license renewal fee.

DOL office hours and locations are listed at dol.wa.gov. Some offices require appointments; check ahead to avoid a wasted trip. Bring your license and proof document to speed up the process.

What documents count as proof of your new address

The Department of Licensing accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. Lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, homeowners insurance policies, and bank or credit card statements also work.

Government mail counts if it shows your name and address — examples include tax documents, voter registration confirmation, or court papers. Rental agreements and letters from your landlord are acceptable if they include both your name and the new address. Do not bring a piece of mail addressed to you at the new address if it does not show the full address or your name clearly.

When you need a new physical card with your updated address

Changing your address in the state system does not print a new card. Your old license remains valid for identification and driving. However, if you want a new card that shows your updated address printed on it, you can request one at any DOL office or through the mail.

A new card costs the same as a standard license renewal — the fee varies depending on your license type and how many years you are renewing for. You will need to provide a new photo, which means visiting an office or using the online photo upload option if available. This is optional; many people keep their old card and rely on the address in the system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to update my address if I just moved?

Washington law requires you to notify the Department of Licensing of an address change within a reasonable time. While there is no specific important date listed in statute, updating within 30 days of moving is standard practice and ensures your license, vehicle registration, and voting records stay current. Delaying can cause problems if you are stopped by police or need to renew your license.

Can I change my address online if I have an out-of-state license?

No, the online system only works for current Washington driver's licenses. If you have moved to Washington from another state, you will need to get a Washington license first. You can explore for a new Washington license at any DOL office or through the mail using form DL 44. Once you have a Washington license, you can update the address online or through the other methods described above.

What if my proof document does not show my full address?

The document must clearly show both your name and your complete new address. If a utility bill or statement is unclear or cut off, bring a second document that confirms the address. When in doubt, call the DOL office you plan to visit at 360-902-3900 and describe what you have — staff can tell you whether it will work before you make the trip.

Does changing my address affect my vehicle registration?

Your driver's license address and vehicle registration address are separate. Changing one does not automatically change the other. If you need to update your vehicle registration address as well, you will need to contact the Department of Licensing separately or visit an office. Many people update both at the same time for convenience.

How long does it take to see the address change in the system?

Online changes take effect when ready. In-person changes at a DOL office take effect the same day. Mail-in changes take five to seven business days after the Department receives your form and proof document. If you need the change to be official quickly — for example, before a court date or police stop — the online or in-person options are faster.