How to Change Your Address on Your Driver's License

Where to report your address change

You report an address change to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), not to your local police or your bank. Most states let you change your address online through their DMV website, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. A few states require you to appear in person, so check your state's DMV site first to see which methods are available where you live.

The fastest route is usually online if your state offers it — you can complete it in minutes from home and often get a confirmation email the same day. Mail takes one to two weeks. In-person visits at a DMV office typically take 15 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the location is, though you may need to book an appointment ahead of time.

Key Takeaways

Most states let you change your address online through the DMV website without visiting an office or paying a fee.
You will need your driver's license number, current address, and new address — and sometimes proof of residency at the new location.
Online changes usually take effect when ready or within one business day; mail takes one to two weeks.
Your physical license card does not change unless you request a replacement, but your record in the DMV system updates right away.
If you move to a different state, you will need to get a new license from that state's DMV rather than just updating your address.

What you need before you start

Have your current driver's license number ready — you will need it whether you go online, by mail, or in person. You also need your new address. Some states ask for proof that you actually live at the new address, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Check your state's DMV website to see whether proof is required; if it is, gather that document before you begin.

If you are changing your name at the same time as your address, you will typically need to do that separately and may need to provide a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Handle the name change first, then update the address.

Changing your address online

Go to your state's official DMV website and look for a link labeled "Change Address," "Update Address," or "Address Change." You will enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to verify your identity. Then enter your new address and confirm it.

Some states ask you to upload a photo of a utility bill or other proof of residency at this point. Others skip that step for online changes. Once you submit, you will usually get a confirmation number and an email confirming the change. Your DMV record updates when ready, even though your physical license card still shows the old address.

If your state's DMV website does not offer online address changes, you will see a message saying so — do not assume the feature exists if you cannot find it after checking the main menu and the FAQ section.

Changing your address by mail

Request an address change form from your state's DMV website or call the DMV to have one mailed to you. Fill out the form with your driver's license number, current address, and new address. Attach a copy of your proof of residency if your state requires it — do not send the original document, only a copy.

Mail the form and any required documents to the address listed on the form. Keep a copy for your records. The DMV will process it within one to two weeks and send you a confirmation. Your record updates in the system before your physical license arrives, so you do not need to wait to use your new address for official purposes.

Changing your address in person at the DMV

Find your nearest DMV office on your state's website and check whether you need to book an appointment. Many states now require appointments to manage wait times; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address if your state requires it.

Tell the DMV staff member you want to change your address. They will verify your identity using your license, update your record in the system, and give you a confirmation. Your DMV record changes when ready. Your physical license still shows the old address unless you pay a fee to get a replacement card — most states charge $15 to $50 for a replacement, though some waive the fee for address-only changes.

What happens to your physical license card

Your driver's license card itself does not automatically update when you change your address. The card will still show your old address, but your official DMV record shows the new one. For most purposes — traffic stops, age verification, opening a bank account — the updated record in the DMV system is what matters, not what is printed on the card.

If you want a new card with your current address printed on it, you can request a replacement. This usually costs $15 to $50 depending on your state, though some states waive the fee if you are only changing your address. You can request a replacement at the same time you change your address, either online, by mail, or in person. The new card typically arrives within one to two weeks.

If you moved to a different state

straightforward changing your address does not work if you moved to a new state. You need to get a driver's license from your new state's DMV instead. 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.

To get a new license, go to your new state's DMV office with proof of identity (your current out-of-state license works), proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement), and your Social Security number. You will take a new photo and usually pass a vision test. The new license arrives within one to three weeks. You can keep your old state's license as a form of ID, but it is no longer valid for driving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to get a new license card when I change my address?

No. Your DMV record updates, and that is what law enforcement and other agencies check. Your physical card can show your old address indefinitely. However, if you want a card that matches your current address, you can request a replacement for a fee — usually $15 to $50, though some states waive it for address-only changes.

How long does it take for my address change to show up in the system?

Online changes usually take effect when ready or within one business day. Mail takes one to two weeks. In-person changes at the DMV take effect the same day. Your updated address is in the system even if your physical card has not arrived yet.

What if I do not have proof of residency?

Some states require it; others do not. Check your state's DMV website to see whether proof is mandatory. If it is required and you cannot provide it, you may need to visit the DMV in person with an alternative document, such as a lease agreement or a letter from your landlord on official letterhead.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

Yes, you can change your address on an expired license. However, if your license has been expired for more than a certain period — usually one to five years depending on your state — you may need to renew it at the same time. Check your state's rules before you start the process.

What if I change my address again soon after?

You can change your address as many times as you need to. There is no limit on how often you can update it. Each change goes through the same process: online, by mail, or in person, depending on what your state offers.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.