Where to Get the Form and What It Covers
Washington's Change of Address form is the document you fill out when you move and need to update your address on your driver's license or ID card. The official form is called the process for Washington Driver License or ID Card (form DL 44), but you do not need to print it yourself — you can complete the address change in person at a Department of Licensing office, by mail, or online through the Washington State Department of Licensing website.
The address change updates only your mailing address on the license or card itself. It does not change your license number, expiration date, or any other information. If you have moved within Washington state or from out of state, this is the form you need.
You can also update your address online through the Department of Licensing's website if you have a valid Washington license or ID card. This is the fastest option and requires no printing or mailing.
Key Takeaways
- You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at any Department of Licensing office.
- The online method takes minutes and costs nothing if you do not need a replacement card with your new address printed on it.
- If you want your new address printed on the physical card, you must request a replacement card, which costs a fee and takes one to two weeks by mail.
- By mail, you need a completed form, proof of your new address, and your current license or ID card; processing takes two to three weeks.
- In person, bring your current license or ID card and proof of your new address to any Department of Licensing office.
Changing Your Address Online
The online method is available through the Department of Licensing website and is the fastest way to update your records. You will need your current Washington driver's license or ID card number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity using this information.
Once you log in, you enter your new address and confirm the change. There is no fee for an address-only update online. Your mailing address is updated when ready in the Department of Licensing system, and you will receive a confirmation email. Your physical card will still show your old address, but your record in the system reflects the new one.
This method works if you straightforward need your mail to go to the correct address. If you want the new address printed on the card itself, you will need to request a replacement card instead, which involves a fee and takes longer.
Changing Your Address by Mail
To change your address by mail, you need three things: a completed process for Washington Driver License or ID Card (form DL 44), proof of your new address, and your current license or ID card.
Proof of your new address can be a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, property tax statement, or government-issued document showing your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. Mail the form, proof, and your card to the Department of Licensing address listed on the form.
Processing takes two to three weeks. You will receive your updated card by mail if you requested a replacement, or just a confirmation if you only updated your address in the system. Your original card will be returned to you if you included it with your mailing.
Changing Your Address in Person
You can walk into any Department of Licensing office and update your address on the spot. Bring your current driver's license or ID card and one document proving your new address (same documents accepted by mail: utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, property tax statement, or government-issued ID).
The office staff will complete the form with you, verify your identity, and process the change. If you want a replacement card with your new address printed on it, you can request one at the same time. A replacement card costs a fee (the amount varies; check the Department of Licensing website for current pricing) and is issued when ready or mailed to you depending on the office's process.
If you only update your address without requesting a replacement card, the change is complete when you leave, and your mailing address is updated in the system right away.
What Happens If You Request a Replacement Card
A replacement card is a new physical card with your new address printed on it. This is different from straightforward updating your address in the system. If you want the new address visible on the card itself, you must request a replacement.
By mail, request a replacement when you send in your form and proof of address. The replacement card is mailed to your new address and takes one to two weeks. In person, you can request a replacement at the same time you update your address; some offices issue it when ready, while others mail it to you.
A replacement card has a fee. Your current card remains valid until the replacement arrives, so you can continue using it. If you do not request a replacement, your card will still show your old address, but your Department of Licensing record and any mail from the state will go to your new address.
Documents You Need for Each Method
| Method | Documents Needed | Processing Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | License or ID card number, date of birth, last four digits of Social Security number | when ready | Free |
| By Mail | Completed form DL 44, proof of new address (dated within 60 days), current license or ID card | 2–3 weeks | Free (or fee if requesting replacement card) |
| In Person | Current license or ID card, proof of new address (dated within 60 days) | Same day or 1–2 weeks if replacement card mailed | Free (or fee if requesting replacement card) |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The most common mistake is not including proof of your new address. The Department of Licensing requires documentation dated within the last 60 days showing your name and current address. A lease, utility bill, or mortgage statement works; a personal letter or email does not. If your proof is older than 60 days, it will be rejected, and your process will be delayed.
Another mistake is forgetting to include your current license or ID card when mailing in your form. Without it, the Department of Licensing cannot verify your identity and will return your process. If you are mailing your card, make sure you include it in the envelope and consider using tracking or certified mail so you know it arrived.
Do not confuse an address-only update with a replacement card. If you update your address online or by mail without requesting a replacement, your physical card will still show your old address. This is fine for most purposes, but if you need the new address printed on the card, you must specifically request a replacement and pay the fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address on my driver's license when I move?
Washington law requires you to notify the Department of Licensing of your new address within a reasonable time after moving. You are not required to get a replacement card with the new address printed on it, but your mailing address in the system should be updated so the state can reach you.
Can I change my address if my license or ID card is expired?
You can update your address in the system, but you cannot renew an expired license or ID card through the address-change process alone. If your card is expired, you will need to renew it separately, which involves a different form and process. Contact the Department of Licensing to find out whether you can combine the renewal and address change.
What if I moved out of state?
If you moved out of Washington, you should update your address in the Department of Licensing system so the state knows where to send mail. However, if you no longer live in Washington and do not plan to return, you may want to surrender your Washington license and obtain a license from your new state instead. The address-change process works the same way for out-of-state moves.
How long does it take to receive a replacement card in the mail?
A replacement card mailed to your new address typically takes one to two weeks to arrive, depending on mail delivery times and the Department of Licensing's processing queue. If you need the card sooner, visiting an office in person may allow you to receive it when ready or within a few days.
What if my proof of address is in someone else's name?
Your proof of address must show your name and your new address. A utility bill or lease in a roommate's or spouse's name will not work. If you cannot get a document in your name, ask the Department of Licensing which alternative documents they accept — some offices may accept a notarized letter from a landlord or other documentation in specific situations.