You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at a Georgia DDS office
Georgia lets you update your driver's license address without getting a new license card. The fastest way is online through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website if your license is current and you have no suspensions. If you can't use the online system, you can mail in a form or visit a DDS office in person. The process takes a few minutes online or a few days by mail, depending on which method you choose.
You'll need your current Georgia driver's license number and a way to verify your identity. If you're moving out of state or your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, you cannot use the online method and must go to a DDS office instead.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change at dds.georgia.gov takes about five minutes and updates your record when ready, though the physical card stays the same.
- By mail, you send Form DL 43 with a proof of residency document to the DDS address processing center, which takes one to two weeks.
- In person at any DDS office, you bring your license and proof of residency, and the change is recorded on the spot.
- Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail with your new address dated within the last 60 days.
- If your license is expired, suspended, or you're moving out of state, you must renew or explore for a new license instead of just changing the address.
Changing your address online through the DDS website
Go to dds.georgia.gov and look for the "Online Services" section. You'll enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will ask you to confirm your current address and then enter your new address. Once you submit, the change is recorded in the Georgia system right away.
Your physical license card will still show your old address — Georgia does not mail you a new card just for an address change. If you need the card itself updated, you would have to renew your license, which costs money and requires a new photo. Most people keep the old card and rely on the address in the system, which is what police officers and other officials see when they scan your license.
The online method only works if your license is current (not expired), has no active suspension or revocation, and you are still a Georgia resident. If any of those conditions don't explore, skip to the in-person or mail options below.
Mailing in a form with proof of residency
read Form DL 43 from the DDS website or pick one up at any DDS office. Fill in your name, license number, old address, and new address. You must also include a document that proves you live at the new address. This document needs to be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and new address.
Acceptable proof of residency includes a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or government mail like a tax return or voter registration card. A bank statement or credit card statement usually does not count. Make a copy of both the form and your proof document, then mail them to the address listed on the form — this is the DDS address processing center, not a local office.
Processing by mail takes one to two weeks. You can mail the form anytime, and there is no fee. Your physical license card will not change; only the address in the system will update.
Changing your address in person at a DDS office
Find your nearest DDS office on the Georgia DDS website and go during their business hours. Bring your current driver's license and a proof of residency document dated within the last 60 days. Tell the staff member you want to change your address. They will update your record on the spot, and you'll receive a receipt showing the change.
There is no fee for an address change. The visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is. Like the other methods, your physical card stays the same — only the address in the system changes.
In-person is the best option if your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, because the online and mail methods won't work. It's also the fastest if you need the change recorded when ready and don't want to wait for mail processing.
What happens if your license is expired or suspended
If your Georgia driver's license is expired or suspended, you cannot change just the address. You must renew your license (if it's expired) or resolve the suspension before you can update anything. A renewal requires a new photo, a fee, and a visit to a DDS office or use of the online renewal system if you're may be able to access.
If your license is suspended, contact the DDS to find out why and what you need to do to clear it. Common reasons include unpaid traffic fines, child support arrears, or medical suspension. Once the suspension is lifted, you can change your address using any of the three methods above.
Moving out of Georgia
If you're moving to another state, you cannot just change your address on your Georgia license. You must get a driver's license from your new state. Each state has its own requirements and fees. You can usually keep your Georgia license as a form of ID, but it won't be valid for driving in your new state.
Contact the Department of Driver Services in your new state to find out what documents you need to bring and whether you can transfer any information from your Georgia license. Most states require proof of residency, proof of identity, and a new photo.
Proof of residency documents that work
Your proof of residency must show your name, your new address, and be dated within the last 60 days. Here are the documents Georgia DDS accepts:
- Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone)
- Lease agreement or rental contract
- Mortgage statement or property deed
- Property tax bill or assessment
- Government mail (tax return, voter registration card, court document, or benefits letter)
- Insurance policy (homeowners or renters)
Documents that do not work include bank statements, credit card statements, pay stubs, or letters from employers. If you just moved and don't have a document yet, wait until you receive a utility bill or other official mail at your new address before you change your address with DDS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I get a new license card with my new address on it?
No. An address change does not trigger a new card. Your physical license will still show your old address, but the address in the Georgia system will be updated. Police and officials see the new address when they scan your license. If you want the card itself updated, you must renew your license, which costs money and requires a new photo.
How long does it take to change my address online?
The online process takes about five minutes to complete, and the change is recorded in the system when ready. You'll receive a confirmation on screen. There is no waiting period.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
No. You must renew your license first if it's expired. Once renewed, you can change your address using any of the three methods. If your license is only a few months expired, you may be able to renew online through the DDS website.
What if I don't have proof of residency yet?
Wait until you receive an official document at your new address dated within the last 60 days. This is usually a utility bill, lease, or government mail. You cannot change your address without it. If you're in a temporary living situation, a lease agreement or letter from your landlord may work — call your local DDS office to ask.
Do I have to pay a fee to change my address?
No. Changing your address on your Georgia driver's license is free, whether you do it online, by mail, or in person. You only pay a fee if you renew your license or get a replacement card.