What documents you need to bring
To change your address on your driver license, you need two things: proof of your new address and your current driver license. The address proof must be a document issued in your name that shows your new street address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement typically works. The document should be dated within the last 60 days, though this varies by state.
Your current driver license is required so the DMV can look up your record and issue a replacement with the new address. If you've lost your license, you'll need to report it and may face additional steps, but you can still update your address at the same time.
Some states accept a narrower list of address documents than others. Before you go to the DMV, check your state's website or call ahead to confirm what they accept — a phone call takes five minutes and saves a wasted trip.
Key Takeaways
- You need your current driver license and one document showing your new address dated within the last 60 days (rules vary by state).
- Most states let you change your address in person at any DMV office, by mail, or online through your state's DMV website.
- An address change usually takes a few minutes in person or one to two weeks by mail, and costs nothing or a small fee depending on your state.
- If you move to a different state, you must get a new license in that state rather than straightforward updating your address.
- Check your state DMV website before you go, because accepted documents and fees vary significantly.
Changing your address in person at the DMV
Walk into any DMV office in your state with your current license and address proof. Tell the clerk you want to update your address. They will verify your documents, take a new photo if your state requires one, and issue a replacement license with your new address printed on it.
The whole process takes 10 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is. You'll pay a replacement fee — this ranges from nothing to $30 depending on your state — and you'll receive your new license the same day or within a few days. Some states mail it to you instead; ask before you leave.
To avoid a long wait, go early in the morning on a weekday, or check whether your state's DMV lets you reserve a time slot online before you arrive.
Changing your address by mail
Most states let you mail in an address change form along with a copy of your current license and address proof. You'll find the form on your state's DMV website — search "[your state] DMV address change form" to locate it. Fill it out, make a copy of both sides of your license, include your address proof, and mail everything to the address listed on the form.
Processing takes one to three weeks. Your replacement license will be mailed to your new address. You won't receive a temporary license by mail, so if you need to drive before it arrives, you may want to change your address in person instead.
Keep a copy of everything you mail for your records. Some states charge a small fee for a replacement license by mail; check your state's website to see whether you need to include a check or money order.
Changing your address online
About half of U.S. states now let you update your address through their DMV website without visiting an office or mailing anything. Go to your state's DMV website, log in with your license number and date of birth, and follow the prompts to enter your new address. You'll upload a photo of your address proof document.
Online changes usually cost nothing and take a few minutes. Your replacement license will be mailed to your new address within one to two weeks. Not all states offer this option yet, and some states only let you change your address online if your license is not expiring soon, so check your state's rules first.
What happens if you move to a different state
If you move to a new state, you cannot straightforward update your address on your old license. You must get a new driver license from your new state within the timeframe that state requires — this is usually 30 to 60 days after you move. You'll need to visit a DMV office in your new state with your old license, proof of your new address, and proof of your Social Security number or state ID number.
Your old license becomes invalid once you get a new one, so plan to do this before your old license expires. Some states let you keep your old license as an ID after you get a new one, but the rules differ.
Address changes for commercial and motorcycle licenses
If you have a commercial driver license (CDL) or a motorcycle endorsement, the process is the same — bring your current license and address proof to the DMV, or mail in the change form. You do not need to retake any tests or pay an endorsement fee; you're only updating the address on your existing license.
Some states require CDL holders to update their address within a shorter timeframe than regular drivers, so check your state's rules if you hold a commercial license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change my address before or after I move?
You should change it after you move and have proof of your new address. Most states require the address proof to be dated within the last 60 days, so you cannot update it before you have a utility bill or lease in your name at the new place. However, don't wait too long — some states fine you if you don't update within 30 days.
What if my address proof is in my spouse's name?
Most states require the document to be in your name. If your utility bill or lease is only in your spouse's name, ask the DMV whether they accept a joint account statement or a notarized letter from your spouse confirming you live there. Call ahead rather than showing up with a document that might not work.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
Yes. An address change is separate from the status of your license. You can update your address even if your license is suspended, though you cannot legally drive. Go to the DMV with your documents and tell them you want to update your address.
Will I get a temporary license while I wait for my replacement?
If you change your address in person, the DMV usually gives you a temporary paper license you can use when ready. If you change it by mail or online, you won't get a temporary — your new license will arrive in the mail in one to three weeks. If you need to drive before it arrives, change your address in person instead.
What if I don't have a utility bill or lease in my name yet?
Ask the DMV what other documents they accept. Some states take a bank statement, credit card statement, insurance policy, or government mail addressed to you. A few states accept a notarized affidavit from a landlord or family member confirming your address. Call your state DMV to ask what will work in your situation.