Where to go and what you'll need
You change your address at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), not online or by mail in most states. The exact name varies — some states call it the Secretary of State's office, the Registry of Motor Vehicles, or the Department of Transportation — but it's the same agency that issued your license.
Before you go, gather these documents: your current driver's license, proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works), and proof of identity if your new address documents don't show your name clearly. Some states also ask for your Social Security number, so have that ready. Check your state's DMV website to confirm what counts as proof of address in your state, because the rules vary.
You do not need to bring your old license to get a new one with the updated address — the DMV will keep the old one on file. If you want a physical replacement card with your new address printed on it, you'll pay a fee that ranges from $0 to $30 depending on your state.
Key Takeaways
- Visit your state's DMV office in person with your current license and a recent utility bill or bank statement showing your new address.
- You can update your address without getting a new card printed, though most people do print a new one for a small fee.
- The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes at the DMV, and your new card arrives by mail within one to two weeks.
- Some states let you update your address online through their DMV website if your license is not expired and you haven't changed your name.
Online address changes in some states
A growing number of states let you change your address on the DMV website without visiting an office. This option is usually available only if your license is not expired, you haven't changed your name, and you're updating to an address within the same state.
To learn about your state offers this, go to your state's DMV website and look for "change address" or "update address" in the main menu. If the option exists, you'll log in with your license number and date of birth, confirm your new address, and pay any applicable fee (usually $0 to $10). Your new card will be mailed to you, or in some cases your address updates when ready without a new card being printed.
Even if online renewal is available, you may still need to visit the DMV in person if your license is expired, if you're moving out of state, or if you've changed your name. Check the website to see which situations require an office visit.
What happens at the DMV office
When you arrive, take a number or check in at the front desk. Tell the clerk you're updating your address. They'll ask to see your current license and your proof of address, verify the information, and ask whether you want a replacement card printed with the new address.
If you request a replacement card, you'll pay the fee (which varies by state) and the clerk will take a new photo if your state requires it. You'll sign a form confirming the address change, and you're done. The new card is mailed to your new address within one to two weeks; your old card remains valid until the new one arrives.
If you don't want a replacement card, the address change is still recorded in the system, and your old card remains valid. However, the address printed on it won't match your actual address, which can cause problems if you use your license as proof of address for banking, insurance, or other purposes.
Timing and what to expect
The office visit itself takes 15 to 30 minutes on average, though wait times vary widely depending on how busy your local DMV is. Visiting early in the morning on a weekday usually means a shorter wait than going in the afternoon or on a weekend.
After you leave the office, your new card is printed and mailed to your new address. Delivery typically takes one to two weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods. Your old license remains valid during this time, so you can still use it for identification.
If you need your license for a specific purpose before the new card arrives — such as opening a bank account or boarding a plane — bring a copy of the receipt or confirmation from your DMV visit along with your old license. Most institutions will accept this as proof that you've updated your address.
Moving to a different state
If you're moving out of state, you'll need to get a new license from your new state's DMV rather than just updating your address. Each state issues its own license, so moving across state lines means explore for a new one, not transferring the old one.
Most states give you 30 to 60 days after you move to get a new license, though some require it sooner. Check your new state's DMV website for the important date and the documents you'll need — typically proof of residency, proof of identity, and proof of your Social Security number. You can usually keep your old license until the new one arrives, but once your new state's license is issued, your old license is no longer valid.
If your license is expired or suspended
If your license is expired, you cannot straightforward update the address — you'll need to renew it at the same time. This means a full renewal process, which requires more documents and a new photo, and the fee is higher than an address-only change.
If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot update the address until the suspension is lifted. Contact your state's DMV to find out the status of your license and what steps are needed to restore it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to get a new card printed when I change my address?
No. You can update your address in the system without printing a new card. However, your old card will still show your previous address, which may cause confusion if you use it as proof of address. Most people print a new card for the small fee to avoid this problem.
What counts as proof of address?
A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works. Some states also accept government mail, insurance documents, or tax returns. Check your state's DMV website for the full list, because rules vary.
Can I change my address by phone or mail?
Most states do not allow address changes by phone or mail. You must visit the DMV office in person or use your state's online system if it's available. A few states may allow mail-in changes in limited situations — check your state's DMV website to be sure.
How long does it take to get the new card in the mail?
Usually one to two weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods. Your old license remains valid during this time, so you can still use it for identification while you wait.
What if I move again before the new card arrives?
Contact your DMV and ask them to update the mailing address for your card before it ships. If the card has already been mailed, you may be able to pick it up at a DMV office or request that it be reissued to your new address.