Where to Change Your Address and What You'll Need
You change your address at the same place you renewed your license: your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Secretary of State office, or equivalent agency. Most states let you do this in person at a local branch, by mail, or online through their website. A few states require in-person visits for address changes; most do not.
What you bring depends on your state and the method you choose. For an in-person visit, you typically need your current driver's license and one document proving your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement usually works. For mail or online, the requirements are similar, though some states ask you to submit photocopies or upload images of documents rather than show originals.
The fee for an address change is usually $0 to $15. Some states charge nothing; others charge a small processing fee. A few states charge the same fee as a license renewal, which can be $30 to $100 depending on the state and how long your license is valid. Check your state's DMV website before you go — the fee and required documents are always listed there.
Key Takeaways
- Most states let you change your address online, by mail, or in person; check your state DMV website to see which methods are available.
- You need your current license and one document showing your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
- Address changes usually cost nothing to $15, though some states charge a renewal fee if your license is expiring soon.
- Your new license arrives by mail within one to three weeks in most states; your old license remains valid until it expires.
- If you move before renewing your license, you can change the address at the same time and often pay only one fee instead of two.
Online Address Changes: Fastest Route in Most States
About 40 states now offer online address changes through their DMV website. You log in with your license number and date of birth, confirm your new address, and pay the fee (if any) by credit or debit card. The whole process takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your new license is mailed to you within one to three weeks.
Not every state's online system works the same way. Some states ask you to upload a photo of a document proving your new address; others just let you type it in. A few states require you to verify your identity using a third-party service — you answer security questions or provide additional information to confirm you are who you say you are. Check your state's DMV website for the exact steps and what documents you need to have ready before you start.
The main catch: online changes usually work only if your license is not expiring within the next few months. If your license expires soon, your state may require you to renew it at the same time, which costs more and takes longer. Some states let you renew and change the address together online; others force you to do it in person or by mail.
Changing Your Address by Mail
Mail-in address changes work in every state, though some states prefer you to use their online system if you can. You fill out a form (usually called an Address Change Request or similar), include a photocopy of your current license and a document proving your new address, and mail it to the address listed on your state's DMV website. Include a check or money order if there is a fee.
Processing takes two to four weeks from the time the DMV receives your envelope, plus mail time both ways. Send your documents by regular mail unless your state specifically asks for certified mail — most do not. Keep a copy of everything you send in case the DMV loses your envelope or you need to prove you sent it.
The advantage of mail is that you do not have to visit an office or create an online account. The disadvantage is the wait. If you need your new license quickly — for example, because you are moving across the country — mail is slower than in-person or online.
In-Person Address Changes at the DMV
Walk into any DMV office with your current license and a document showing your new address, and you can change your address on the spot. You fill out a form, hand over your documents, pay the fee if there is one, and leave. Your new license is mailed to your new address within one to three weeks.
In-person changes are useful if you do not have internet access, prefer to handle things face-to-face, or need to change your address at the same time as renewing your license. They are also the fastest way to confirm that the DMV has your correct information — you can ask the clerk to read back your new address before you leave.
The downside is wait time. DMV offices are often crowded, and you may wait 30 minutes to an hour or more depending on the time of day and how busy your local office is. Many states now let you reserve a time slot online, which cuts the wait to 10 or 15 minutes. Check your state's website to see if your local office offers appointments.
What Happens to Your Old License
Your current license remains valid until the expiration date printed on it, even after you change your address. You do not have to turn it in or destroy it. When your new license arrives in the mail, your old one becomes invalid, but you can keep it as a record or throw it away — the choice is yours.
If you are stopped by police before your new license arrives, your old license with the old address is still acceptable proof of identity. Police understand that address changes take time. However, it is a good idea to carry something showing your new address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement — in case a police officer asks for proof that you actually live where you say you do.
Changing Your Address When You Renew Your License
If your license is expiring soon, you can change your address and renew your license at the same time. In most states, you pay one fee instead of two, which saves you money. You can do this online, by mail, or in person using the same methods described above — the process is identical, except you also fill out a renewal form.
Some states let you renew and change your address together online. Others require you to do it in person or by mail if you are renewing. Check your state's website to see what your options are. If you are moving and your license is expiring within the next six months, it is usually worth waiting to do both at once rather than paying twice.
Special Situations: Military Moves and Out-of-State Changes
If you are moving because of military orders, some states offer expedited processing or waived fees. Contact your state DMV directly to ask what military-specific options exist. You may need to provide a copy of your orders or a military ID.
If you are moving out of state, you do not need to change your address on your current license — you will get a new license from your new state when you move. However, some states require you to change your address before you move if you are moving within the same state. Check your state's rules before you move.
If you are moving to a new state and want to keep your current license until it expires, you can change the address to your new out-of-state address in most states. This is useful if your license is relatively new and you do not want to pay for a new one right away. However, some states do not allow out-of-state address changes, so verify this with your state DMV first.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my new license after I change my address?
One to three weeks by mail in most states, depending on how busy the DMV is. Online and in-person changes both result in a new license being mailed to you; the change itself is when ready, but printing and mailing take time. Some states offer expedited mail for an extra fee.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
Yes. Address changes are separate from license status. You can change your address even if your license is suspended, though you cannot drive. When your suspension ends, your new address will already be on file.
What if I move and do not change my address on my license?
Your license remains valid at the old address until it expires. However, if you are stopped by police or get a ticket, having an outdated address can cause confusion. The DMV may also send renewal notices to your old address, and you could miss them. It is best to change your address as soon as you move.
Do I need to change my address if I move within the same city?
No, it is not required by law. However, it is a good idea so that your license matches where you actually live. If you are stopped by police or need to prove your address for a job or apartment, an outdated license can cause problems.
Can I change my address online if I do not have a document to prove it?
Most states require at least one document showing your new address. If you do not have a utility bill or lease yet, ask your state DMV what documents they accept — some take a signed letter from a landlord, a mortgage statement, or even a recent piece of mail from a government agency.