What documents you need to bring
To change your address at the DMV, bring two things: your current driver license and proof of your new address. The DMV will not accept a verbal request or a phone call — you must appear in person or use your state's online portal if one exists.
Proof of address means a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new street address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a government letter addressed to you. A piece of mail from your employer, insurance company, or the IRS works. A postmarked envelope is not enough — the document itself must show the address printed on it.
Some states accept fewer documents than others. If you are unsure whether what you have will work, call your state DMV before you go, or check the DMV website for your state — most list exactly which documents they accept.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring your current driver license and a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new address.
- Acceptable proof of address includes utility bills, lease agreements, bank statements, or government letters — but not postcards or envelopes.
- Most states let you change your address online through the DMV website, which is faster than going to an office.
- If you go in person, bring the originals of your documents — photocopies are usually not accepted.
- The fee for an address change is typically $0 to $15 depending on your state, and the new license usually arrives by mail within two to three weeks.
How to change your address online
Many states now let you update your address through the DMV website without visiting an office. Go to your state's DMV website and look for a link that says "change address," "update information," or "manage my license." You will need to log in or create an account using your driver license number and date of birth.
The online process asks you to enter your new address and confirm your identity — usually by answering security questions or uploading a photo of your proof of address. Some states ask you to upload an image of your document; others just ask you to type the address and verify it matches their records. Once you submit, you will get a confirmation number. A new license with your updated address will be mailed to you, usually within two to three weeks.
Not every state offers online address changes yet. If your state's DMV website does not have this option, or if you cannot find the link, you will need to visit an office in person.
Going to the DMV office in person
If you cannot change your address online, go to your local DMV office during business hours. Bring your current driver license and your proof of address document — bring the original, not a photocopy. Fill out the address change form at the office (the staff can show you which one) or bring it completed from home if you downloaded it from the DMV website.
Wait times at DMV offices vary widely. Some offices have online appointment systems where you can book a time slot ahead of time, which cuts your wait to 15 or 20 minutes. Others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check your state's DMV website to see if appointments are available in your area.
When you reach the counter, hand over your license and proof of address. The staff member will scan your documents, enter your new address into the system, and tell you the fee (if any). You will pay, receive a receipt, and leave. Your new license will arrive by mail.
What happens after you submit your change
Once you have changed your address — whether online or in person — the DMV updates its records when ready. Your new license is printed and mailed to your new address. This usually takes two to three weeks, though some states are faster and some slower.
Until your new license arrives, your old license is still valid for driving, even though it shows your old address. You do not need to do anything else. When the new license arrives, destroy the old one or keep it as a record — your state's rules vary on this, but most do not require you to return it.
If you move again before the new license arrives, you can update your address a second time. Some states charge a second fee; others do not. Contact the DMV to ask before you move again.
Fees and timing by state
The cost to change your address ranges from free to about $15, depending on your state. Most states charge nothing for an address-only change. A few charge $5 to $15 if you also want a new physical card printed with your new address (as opposed to just updating the records). Some states print a new card automatically; others only print one if you pay the fee.
Processing time is usually two to three weeks from the time you submit your change until the new license arrives in your mailbox. A few states are faster (10 to 14 days); a few are slower (up to four weeks). If you need your new license sooner, some states offer expedited printing for an additional fee of $10 to $25, though this is not available everywhere.
Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee and timeline in your area. The website will also tell you whether expedited service is available and what it costs.
What to do if your proof of address document is old
If your newest document showing your new address is older than 60 days, the DMV may not accept it. In that case, you have a few options. First, order a new utility bill or bank statement in your name at your new address — these typically arrive within a week or two. Second, ask your landlord or mortgage company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your tenancy and the address; this counts as proof in most states. Third, some states accept a notarized statement from you confirming your address, though this is less common.
If you just moved and have no documents yet, wait a few days for mail to arrive at your new address, or contact your utility company and ask them to email or print a current bill. Most utilities can do this within 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change my address if I just moved temporarily?
No. You only need to change your address if you have moved permanently or plan to stay at the new address for at least several months. If you are moving back soon, you can wait. The DMV does not track how long you stay at an address.
What if I do not have a utility bill or lease in my name?
Ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on company letterhead confirming your tenancy and the address. Some states also accept a notarized affidavit (a sworn statement) that you sign in front of a notary public. Call your state DMV to confirm which option they will accept before you go.
Can someone else change my address for me?
No. You must do it yourself, either online or in person. The DMV requires you to verify your identity, and they will not accept a request from a family member or friend. If you cannot go to the office, use the online option if your state offers it.
Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance?
Changing your address at the DMV does not affect your driving record or any violations on it. Your insurance company will not know about the change unless you tell them. You should notify your insurance company separately so they have your correct address on file.
What if I move before my new license arrives?
You can update your address again. Some states charge a second fee for this; others do not. The new license will be mailed to your most recent address. Contact the DMV to ask about the fee before you move again.