Where to update your Washington driver's license

You can update your Washington driver's license at any Department of Licensing (DOL) office in the state. Washington has about 30 physical locations, with the main office in Olympia and branches in most counties. You can also renew or update your license online through the DOL website if you are only changing your address, but other changes — like your name, photo, or medical information — require an in-person visit.

The fastest way to find your nearest office is to visit the DOL website and use their office locator tool. You will see hours, address, and whether that location takes walk-ins or requires an appointment. Some offices are appointment-only, while others accept both walk-ins and scheduled visits. Call ahead if you are unsure, because wait times vary by location and time of day.

Key Takeaways

  • Most address changes can be done online through the DOL website without visiting an office.
  • Name changes, photo updates, and medical information changes require an in-person visit to a DOL office.
  • Bring your current driver's license, proof of your new information (such as a marriage certificate or court order), and proof of your current address.
  • Fees vary by the type of update — address changes are often free online, while replacements or renewals cost between $35 and $60.
  • Processing times range from same-day for in-person visits to 7 to 10 business days for mail-in requests.

What documents you need to bring

The documents you need depend on what you are changing. For an address change, you will need proof of your current residence — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. For a name change, bring your current license plus the legal document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are updating your photo, bring only your current license.

For any in-person visit, bring your current Washington driver's license. If you are a non-citizen, bring your passport or immigration documents. If you are changing your medical information (such as organ donor status or disability designation), bring any supporting documents your doctor or the DOL requires. The DOL website lists specific requirements for each type of change, so check before you go.

How to change your address online

If you are only updating your mailing address, you can do this online without visiting an office. Go to the DOL website, select "Change Address," and log in with your driver's license number and date of birth. You will need to provide your new address and proof of residency — upload a photo of a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

The fee for an online address change is usually free. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. If you need the change to take effect when ready, you will need to visit a DOL office in person instead.

In-person visits: what to expect

When you arrive at a DOL office, check in at the front desk and give them the documents you brought. A staff member will review them to make sure everything is complete. If something is missing or unclear, they will tell you what else you need before they can process your request.

If everything is in order, you will have your photo taken (unless you are only changing your address online). The new license is usually printed on-site, and you can leave with it the same day. Some changes — like a legal name change — may require additional verification, which can take longer. Ask the staff member how long your specific update will take when you check in.

Fees and processing times

Fees depend on what you are changing. Address changes done online are free. In-person replacements or updates cost $35 for a standard license or $60 for an enhanced license (which allows entry into federal buildings). If you are renewing your license at the same time as making changes, the renewal fee applies instead — $60 for a standard license valid for eight years.

If you visit in person, you usually leave with your updated license the same day. If you mail in a request, processing takes 7 to 10 business days, plus mailing time. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee if you need your license faster, though availability varies by location.

Changing your name on your license

To change your name, you must visit a DOL office in person. Bring your current license and the legal document that proves your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, adoption papers, or court order from a name change petition. The document must be an official copy, not a photocopy.

If your name change was recent and the document is from another state or country, bring the original or a certified copy. The DOL staff will review it, take a new photo, and print your updated license on-site. The fee is $35 for a standard replacement license. If you are also renewing your license, the renewal fee ($60) applies instead.

Updating medical information and organ donor status

You can update your organ donor status online through the DOL website without visiting an office or paying a fee. You can also register or change your status in person at any DOL office. If you are adding or changing medical information — such as a disability designation or vision restriction — you may need to bring supporting documents from your doctor or the DOL's medical review unit.

Some medical updates require a form filled out by your physician. The DOL website lists which conditions require medical documentation. If you are unsure whether your situation needs a doctor's form, call your local DOL office before you visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update my driver's license by mail?

You can mail in a request for an address change or to renew your license, but most other updates require an in-person visit. Mail-in renewals take 7 to 10 business days plus mailing time. Check the DOL website for the mailing address and which changes can be done by mail.

What if I lost my driver's license?

Visit a DOL office in person with proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID) and proof of your address. You will pay a replacement fee ($35 for a standard license) and receive your new license the same day. You do not need to report the loss to the police unless you suspect fraud.

How long does a name change take?

If you visit in person with your legal name change document, you leave with your updated license the same day. The entire process at the office usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the location is.

Do I need an appointment at a DOL office?

Some offices require appointments, while others take walk-ins. Check the DOL office locator on their website to see the policy at your nearest location. If appointments are required and none are available, you can visit a different office or call to ask about cancellations.

What if my address proof is older than 60 days?

The DOL requires address proof dated within the last 60 days. If your document is older, bring a second recent document — such as a recent bank statement or utility bill — or visit the office in person with your current license and explain your situation. Staff may be able to verify your address another way.