You can change your Georgia driver's license address online through the Georgia Department of Driver Services website, but only if your license is still valid and you're not changing your name
Georgia lets you update your address without visiting a driver's license office, as long as your current license hasn't expired and you're keeping the same name. The process takes about 10 minutes and costs $20. You'll need your current license number, a valid email address, and a payment method — debit card, credit card, or eCheck.
If your license has expired, your name has changed, or you need a Real ID-compliant license, you'll have to go to a driver's license office in person. The online option is only for straightforward address changes on an active license.
Key Takeaways
- Georgia's online address change works only if your license is valid and your name hasn't changed.
- The process happens on the Georgia Department of Driver Services website and takes about 10 minutes.
- You'll pay $20 and receive a new physical license in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- If your license is expired or you need a Real ID upgrade, you must visit a driver's license office in person.
- Your new license will have the same number as your current one, just with the updated address.
Step-by-step process for changing your address online
Start by going to the Georgia Department of Driver Services website at dds.georgia.gov. Look for the "Online Services" section and select "Change of Address." You'll be taken to a login page where you enter your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Once you're logged in, you'll see a form with your current information. Verify that your name, date of birth, and license number are correct — if anything is wrong, stop and visit a driver's license office instead. Then enter your new address in the address fields. Double-check the spelling and zip code before moving forward, because mistakes here mean your new license arrives at the wrong place.
After you confirm your new address, you'll review a summary of the changes. The system will then ask you to pay the $20 fee. You can use a Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover card, or eCheck. Once payment goes through, you'll receive a confirmation number via email. Save this number — it's your proof of the transaction.
Your new license will be mailed to the address you just entered. Georgia typically processes these within 7 to 10 business days, though it can take longer during high-volume periods. Your current license remains valid until the new one arrives, so you can keep using it.
What happens if your license is expired or your name changed
The online system will reject your request if your license expired more than a few months ago. Georgia doesn't allow address-only renewals online — you have to renew in person at a driver's license office and update your address at the same time. Bring your expired license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or Social Security card).
If you've changed your name since your license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — you cannot use the online address-change tool. You'll need to visit a driver's license office with your current license, a court order or marriage certificate showing the name change, and proof of identity. The office will issue a new license with your updated name and address.
Real ID requirements and when you need to visit in person
Georgia's standard driver's license and the REAL ID-compliant version look similar, but they're different documents. If your license doesn't have a gold star in the upper right corner, it's not REAL ID-compliant. The federal government requires a REAL ID to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings starting in 2025.
You cannot upgrade to a REAL ID license online. If you want to change your address and get a REAL ID at the same time, you must visit a driver's license office. Bring your current license, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and a second form of identity. The office will take a new photo and issue the REAL ID license on the spot or mail it to you, depending on the office's process.
Where to find a Georgia driver's license office if you need to visit in person
Georgia has driver's license offices in most counties. Find the one nearest you by visiting dds.georgia.gov, clicking "Locations," and entering your city or zip code. The website shows office hours, which vary by location — some are open Monday through Friday, while others have Saturday hours. Many offices now use an online appointment system, so you can reserve a time slot instead of waiting in line.
Bring all required documents with you. If you're missing something, the office will turn you away and you'll have to come back. Call ahead if you're unsure whether you have everything, because wait times can be long and you don't want to waste a trip.
Tracking your new license after you order it online
After you complete the online address change, you won't receive a tracking number. Georgia doesn't offer a way to track your license in the mail. The confirmation email you receive tells you to expect delivery within 7 to 10 business days, but that's an estimate, not a may provide.
If your new license doesn't arrive within two weeks, contact the Georgia Department of Driver Services at 678-413-8400. Have your confirmation number ready. They can check whether the license was mailed and, if it was lost, issue a replacement. There may be an additional fee for a replacement license.
Common mistakes to avoid when changing your address online
The most common error is entering the address wrong. Georgia's system doesn't always catch typos, so if you misspell your street name or get the zip code wrong, your license will arrive at the wrong address and you'll have to request a replacement. Take 30 seconds to verify every part of your new address before you submit.
Another mistake is trying to use the online tool when you're not may be able to access. If your license is expired, the system will reject you — but some people try multiple times or call the office asking for an exception. There is no exception. If your license expired, you have to renew in person.
Don't lose your confirmation email. It's the only record you have that you submitted the request. If something goes wrong or your license doesn't arrive, you'll need that confirmation number to contact the department.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my new license after I change my address online?
Georgia says 7 to 10 business days, but it can take longer during busy periods. You won't receive a tracking number, so you can't check the status. If it doesn't arrive within two weeks, contact the Georgia Department of Driver Services at 678-413-8400 with your confirmation number.
Can I change my address online if my license expires in the next few months?
Yes, as long as your license hasn't actually expired yet. The online system only checks whether your license is currently valid, not when it expires. However, if you're within a few months of expiration, consider renewing at the same time by visiting a driver's license office, so you don't have to go back soon.
What if I entered my address wrong and my new license went to the wrong place?
Contact the Georgia Department of Driver Services at 678-413-8400 with your confirmation number. They can issue a replacement license mailed to the correct address. There will be a replacement fee, usually around $20 to $32 depending on the type of license.
Do I need a Real ID to change my address online?
No. The online address-change tool works with standard driver's licenses. If you want to upgrade to a Real ID at the same time, you have to visit a driver's license office in person.
Can I change my address online if I'm changing my name too?
No. The online tool only works for address changes on licenses where the name stays the same. If your name changed, you must visit a driver's license office with a court order or marriage certificate and get a new license in person.