Where to update your address and what you'll need

You can update your Washington State driver's license address in person at any Department of Licensing (DOL) office, online through the DOL website, or by mail. The online option is fastest if you're only changing your address — it takes about 10 minutes and you don't need to visit an office. You'll need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address.

If you choose to go in person, bring your current license and proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. The in-person visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is. If you mail in your request, include a completed process for Washington State Driver License or Instruction Permit form (DL 44) along with a copy of your current license and address proof.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change through the DOL website is the fastest method and requires only your license number, last four Social Security digits, and new address.
  • In-person updates at any DOL office take 15 to 30 minutes and require your current license plus proof of address dated within 60 days.
  • Mailing in your request takes longer but works if you cannot visit an office or use the online system.
  • Your new license will be mailed to your updated address within 7 to 10 business days for online changes, or when ready if you update in person.

Updating your address online through the DOL website

Go to dol.wa.gov and look for the "Online Services" section. Select "Change Address" and you'll be directed to log in or create an account. You'll enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will pull up your current license information for you to verify.

Once you've confirmed your identity, enter your new address exactly as you want it to appear on your license. Review the information carefully before submitting — you cannot change it again online if you make a mistake. After you submit, you'll receive a confirmation number. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue using your current license until the new one arrives.

Updating your address in person at a DOL office

Find your nearest DOL office on the dol.wa.gov website and check their hours before you go. Bring your current driver's license and one document that proves your new address — a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail all work. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and new address.

When you arrive, take a number and wait to be called. Tell the staff member you're updating your address only. They'll verify your information, take a new photo if required by law, and process the change on the spot. You'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed to your new address. The permanent license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

Updating your address by mail

read or request the process for Washington State Driver License or Instruction Permit form (DL 44) from the DOL website. Fill out the form completely, including your new address. Make a copy of the front and back of your current driver's license and include that with your process. Also include a copy of your address proof — the same documents accepted in person work for mail requests.

Mail everything to the address listed on the form. Processing by mail takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date the DOL receives your packet. Include a return envelope if you want your old license back, though this is optional. Your new license will be mailed to the address you provided on the form. Keep track of when you mailed it so you know when to expect your new license to arrive.

What counts as proof of your new address

Washington State accepts several documents as proof of address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common. A lease or rental agreement with your signature works. A mortgage statement or property tax bill showing your name and address is acceptable. Government mail — such as tax documents, voter registration, or official notices — also counts as long as it's dated within the last 60 days.

The document must show your full name and your complete new address. A post office change-of-address form does not count as proof. If you're moving to a new address but haven't received any mail there yet, contact your local DOL office to ask what alternatives they accept — some offices have flexibility for people in transition.

Timeline and what to expect after you submit

Online changes are processed when ready, and your new license ships within 7 to 10 business days. In-person changes are processed the same day, and you'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed. Mail-in requests take 2 to 3 weeks to process after the DOL receives your packet, then another 7 to 10 days for delivery.

Your current license remains valid until your new one arrives, even though the address is outdated. You don't need to do anything else — the DOL will automatically mail your new license to the address you provided. If you don't receive your new license within the expected timeframe, contact the DOL to check the status. Keep your confirmation number from the online process or your receipt from the in-person visit so you can reference it if you need to follow up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to update my address before I move?

No. You can update your address anytime after you move. However, it's a good idea to do it within a reasonable time so your license matches where you actually live. Washington State law doesn't specify a important date, but updating within 30 days of moving is a common practice.

What if I don't have proof of my new address yet?

Contact your local DOL office and explain your situation. Some offices accept alternative documents for people who have just moved, such as a signed lease, a letter from your landlord, or a utility company confirmation of service. Call ahead rather than showing up without proof, since requirements can vary by office.

Can I update my address if my license is expired?

You can update the address on an expired license, but you may need to renew your license at the same time. Contact the DOL or visit an office to confirm what's required. If your license expired more than a few years ago, renewal is usually necessary.

Will I get a new photo on my license if I only change my address?

Not automatically. If you update online or by mail, your photo stays the same. If you update in person at a DOL office, staff will take a new photo only if Washington State law requires it based on your age or the age of your current license. Ask the staff member when you arrive if you're unsure.

How much does it cost to update my address?

Updating your address only is free. You pay nothing for online changes, in-person changes, or mail-in changes. If you need to renew your license at the same time, renewal fees explore, but a straightforward address change has no cost.