You can change your address at the DMV in person, by mail, or online depending on your state
The fastest way to update your address is usually online through your state's DMV website, if your state offers it. Some states let you change your address without visiting an office or paying a fee. If your state does not have an online option, you can mail in a form or go to a DMV office in person. The method available to you depends on which state issued your license.
You do not need a new physical license card just to change your address — most states update your record and mail you a new card with the updated address printed on it. Some states charge a small fee for the replacement card; others do not. A few states let you update your address in their system without getting a new card at all, though you would still need to request one if you want the new address printed.
Key Takeaways
- Check your state's DMV website first to see if you can change your address online, which is usually the fastest option.
- You will need your driver's license number, current address, and new address to make the change.
- Most states mail you a replacement card with the updated address at no cost or for a small fee.
- If you move to a different state, you will need to get a new license from that state rather than just updating your address.
How to change your address online
Start by visiting your state's DMV website and looking for a link labeled "change address," "update address," or "address change." Not all states offer this option yet, but the number that do is growing. The online process usually takes five to ten minutes.
You will need your driver's license number, your current address as it appears on your license, and your new address. Some states also ask for the last four digits of your Social Security number or your date of birth to verify your identity. After you submit the form, you should see a confirmation page. Save or print this confirmation in case you need proof that you made the change.
Most states that offer online address changes will mail you a replacement license card within two to four weeks. A few states update your address in their system when ready but do not mail a new card unless you request one. Check the confirmation page or your state's website to see what to expect.
How to change your address by mail
If your state does not have an online option, you can usually mail in a form. Visit your state's DMV website and read the address change form — it is often called a "change of address form" or "DL-43" (though the exact name varies by state). Fill it out completely and include your current driver's license number.
Mail the form to the address listed on your state's DMV website, usually a central processing office rather than a local DMV branch. Include a copy of a document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. The document should be dated within the last 60 days in most states, though this requirement varies.
Processing by mail typically takes three to six weeks from the time the DMV receives your form. You will receive a replacement license card in the mail with your updated address. Some states charge a fee for the replacement card; others do not. Check your state's website before you mail the form so you know whether to include a payment.
How to change your address in person at the DMV
If you prefer to handle it face-to-face or your state does not offer online or mail options, you can visit a DMV office. Bring your current driver's license and a document showing your new address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or recent bank statement. Most states require the address document to be dated within the last 60 days.
You do not need an appointment at most DMV offices for an address change, though some states now use an online appointment system. Check your state's website to see if you can reserve a time slot, which can cut your wait time significantly. If walk-ins are allowed, go early in the day or on a weekday to avoid long lines.
The address change itself takes only a few minutes once you reach the counter. The DMV will issue you a replacement license card on the spot or mail it to you within a few weeks, depending on your state's process. Some states charge a fee for the replacement card; others do not.
What documents you need for an address change
The exact documents required depend on your state, but most ask for two things: proof of your identity and proof of your new address. Your current driver's license serves as proof of identity. For proof of address, you need a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new address.
Acceptable address documents usually include a utility bill, lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail. Some states accept a letter from your employer or a notarized statement if you do not have a utility bill or lease. A few states have a longer list of acceptable documents; check your state's DMV website to be sure what they will accept.
If you are changing your address because you moved in with family or friends and do not have a lease or utility bill in your name, ask your state's DMV what alternatives they accept. Some allow an affidavit or a letter from the property owner confirming you live there.
When you move to a different state
If you move to a new state, you cannot straightforward change your address on your old license. You will need to get a new driver's license from your new state. Most states require you to get a new license within 30 to 60 days of moving, though the exact important date varies.
To get a new license, visit a DMV office in your new state with your old license, proof of your new address, and proof of your Social Security number. Some states also require proof of your legal name or citizenship. The process is similar to renewing a license, and you will receive a new card with your new state's format and your new address.
You do not have to surrender your old license when ready, but it becomes invalid once you get a new one. Some people keep the old license as a form of ID for travel purposes, though it is not a valid driver's license anymore.
What happens if you do not update your address
If you move and do not update your address on your license, your license is still valid for driving. However, the address on your license will not match where you actually live. This can cause problems if you are pulled over — an officer may question why your address is outdated.
More importantly, if you receive a traffic ticket or other legal notice, it may be mailed to your old address and you might miss the important date to respond. Insurance companies may also flag a mismatch between your license address and the address on your policy. Some states require your license address to match your vehicle registration address, and a mismatch can result in a fine.
Updating your address is free or low-cost in most states, so it is worth doing soon after you move rather than waiting until you run into a problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a new license card after I change my address?
If you change your address online or in person, most states mail you a replacement card within two to four weeks. If you mail in a form, it usually takes three to six weeks from the time the DMV receives it. During this time, your old card is still valid for driving.
Do I have to pay a fee to change my address?
Most states do not charge a fee to change your address in their system. However, some states charge a small fee (usually $5 to $15) for the replacement card that gets mailed to you. A few states offer free replacement cards. Check your state's DMV website to see what applies where you live.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
Yes, you can change your address on an expired license in most states. However, if your license is expired, you should renew it at the same time you change your address. This way you get one new card with both the updated address and the new expiration date, rather than two separate cards.
What if I do not have a document showing my new address?
If you cannot provide a recent utility bill or lease, ask your state's DMV what alternatives they accept. Many states allow an affidavit signed by you and a witness, a notarized letter from the property owner, or a letter from your employer. Some also accept government mail or insurance documents. Call your local DMV office to ask what they will accept in your situation.