What You'll Need Before You Visit

To update your driver's license, you will need to bring proof of your current identity, proof of your current address, and your existing license. The exact documents vary by state, but every state requires at least one document from each category. Some states let you update online or by mail for certain changes — address updates are the most common — while others require an in-person visit to a DMV office or authorized location.

The documents you bring must be originals or certified copies, not photocopies. Expired documents are usually accepted as long as they show your name and signature clearly. If your name has changed, you will need a document that proves the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Key Takeaways

  • Every state requires proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), proof of current address (such as a utility bill or lease), and your current driver's license.
  • If your name has changed, bring the document that caused the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — along with your identity and address documents.
  • Address-only updates can often be done online or by mail in most states, while name changes and license renewals usually require an in-person visit.
  • Your state's DMV website lists the exact documents it accepts; some states accept digital copies of certain documents, while others do not.

Proof of Identity Documents

States accept a range of documents to prove who you are. A valid U.S. passport is accepted everywhere. A certified copy of your birth certificate, issued by the vital records office in the state or country where you were born, works in all states. A Social Security card is not accepted as proof of identity on its own, but you may need to bring it to verify your Social Security number.

Other documents that count as identity proof in most states include a military ID, a tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe, a valid foreign passport, or a permanent resident card (green card). Some states also accept a school ID or employee ID if it includes your photo and signature. Check your state's DMV website to see which documents it specifically recognizes, because some states have narrower lists than others.

Proof of Current Address

You need a document showing your name and your current address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) dated within the last 60 days is accepted in every state. A lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a homeowners insurance policy also work. Some states accept a bank statement or credit card statement if it shows your address and is recent.

If you have moved recently and do not yet have a bill in your name at your new address, some states allow you to bring a letter from your landlord or a notarized statement confirming your address. A few states accept a government check or tax return. Your state's DMV website will list which documents it accepts and how recent they must be — most require documents dated within 30 to 60 days.

Documents for Name Changes

If you are changing your name on your license, you must bring the document that caused the change. A marriage certificate (original or certified copy) is required if you married. A divorce decree or dissolution order is required if you divorced. A court order for a legal name change must be a certified copy from the court that issued it.

The document must be an original or certified copy — a photocopy will not be accepted. If the document is in a language other than English, you will need to bring a certified English translation along with the original. Some states require the translation to be certified by a court or a professional translator; check your state's rules before you go.

Your Current License and Social Security Number

Bring your current driver's license or state ID card. If your license is lost or stolen, tell the DMV staff when you arrive — they can look up your record and issue a replacement. You will also need to provide your Social Security number. The DMV uses it to verify your identity and check for duplicate licenses in the state system.

If you do not have a Social Security number, some states allow you to provide an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring documentation of whichever number you have. If you are not sure whether your Social Security number is on file with the DMV, call your state's DMV before you visit.

Documents for Address Changes Only

If you are only updating your address and not renewing your license or changing your name, many states let you skip the in-person visit. You can update your address online through your state's DMV website, by mail, or by phone. For online or mail updates, you typically need to provide your driver's license number, your date of birth, and your new address. Some states ask you to upload a photo of your current license.

A few states require you to mail in a form along with a copy of a proof-of-address document. Check your state's DMV website to see which method is available to you. Address-only updates usually take one to two weeks if you mail them in, and are when ready if you do them online.

What Happens If You Do Not Have a Required Document

If you do not have one of the required documents, the DMV will not process your update. You will need to get the missing document before you return. For a birth certificate, contact the vital records office in the state or country where you were born — this can take two to four weeks. For a marriage certificate or divorce decree, contact the court or vital records office in the county where the event was recorded.

If you cannot get a required document, some states have a process to request a waiver or to use alternative documents. Call your state's DMV or visit its website to ask whether an exception is possible in your situation. Bring a list of what you do have so the staff can tell you what else they will accept.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update my address online if I do not have a recent utility bill?

Most states that offer online address updates do not require you to upload a proof-of-address document — you just enter your new address and verify your identity with your license number and date of birth. A few states do ask for a photo of a proof-of-address document. Check your state's DMV website to see what it requires.

What if my birth certificate is from another country?

A foreign birth certificate is accepted as proof of identity in most states, but it must be an original or certified copy. If it is in a language other than English, bring a certified English translation. Some states require the translation to be done by a court or professional translator, so check your state's rules first.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

You do not need to bring the card itself — you just need to provide your Social Security number. If you do not know your number, bring your Social Security card so the DMV staff can read it. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring documentation of your ITIN instead.

Can I update my license if my current license is expired?

Yes. An expired license is still accepted as proof of identity and as your current license for update purposes. Bring it along with your other documents. The DMV will issue you a new license with the updated information.

How long does it take to get my updated license after I submit my documents?

If you update in person, you usually receive your new license on the spot or within a few days. If you update by mail, it typically takes one to three weeks depending on your state. Check your state's DMV website for specific timelines.