Where to Change Your Address

You change your driver's license address at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), not at your local post office or bank. Most states now let you change your address online through their DMV website, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. A few states still require you to visit 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 often complete the change in 10 minutes without leaving home. Mail takes longer (typically one to three weeks) because the DMV has to process the request and mail you a new license or confirmation. In-person visits are when ready but require you to take time off and wait in line.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states let you change your address online through their DMV website, which is the fastest method and takes about 10 minutes.
  • You will need your driver's license number, current address, and new address; some states also ask for the last four digits of your Social Security number.
  • Online changes usually cost nothing, but mail-in requests may charge a small fee ($5 to $15 depending on your state).
  • Your new license arrives by mail within two to four weeks; you can usually continue driving on your old license until it arrives.
  • If you moved out of state, you must get a new license from your new state's DMV rather than just changing the address on your old one.

What You Need Before You Start

Gather your current driver's license and know your new address before you begin. You will also need your driver's license number, which is printed on the front of your card. Most states ask for the last four digits of your Social Security number as a security check.

If you are changing your address online, have your email address ready because the DMV will send you a confirmation. If you are mailing in a form, you will need to print the address change form from your state's DMV website, fill it out by hand, and include a copy of your driver's license (front and back). Some states ask you to include proof of your new address—a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days—so check your state's requirements before you mail anything.

Changing Your Address Online

Go to your state's DMV website and look for "change address" or "update address" in the main menu. The exact wording varies by state, but it is usually under a section called "Driver License Services" or "Online Services." Click through to the address change tool and enter your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number when prompted.

Type in your new address exactly as it appears on your lease, utility bill, or other proof of residence. Double-check the spelling and zip code because the DMV will mail your new license to this address. Review the information on the confirmation screen, then submit. You will receive an email confirmation when ready, and your new license will arrive by mail within two to four weeks. You do not need to do anything else—keep the email confirmation in case you need to reference your request.

Mailing in an Address Change Form

read the address change form from your state's DMV website. The form is usually called "Address Change Form" or "Driver License Address Change Request." Print it out and fill in your name, driver's license number, current address, and new address in pen. Sign and date the form.

Make a copy of both sides of your driver's license and attach it to the form. If your state requires proof of your new address, include a copy of a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Put everything in an envelope and mail it to the address listed on the form—this address is different from your local DMV office, so follow the instructions carefully. Mail service typically takes one to three weeks, and the DMV will process your request after it arrives. Your new license will be mailed to your new address once the change is processed.

Changing Your Address in Person at the DMV

Visit your local DMV office during business hours and bring your current driver's license. Tell the staff member you want to change your address. They will ask you to fill out a short form with your new address and may ask for proof of residence, depending on your state. Some states accept a utility bill or lease; others accept a bank statement or government mail addressed to your new address.

The staff member will take your information and may take a new photo for your license on the spot. If they take a photo, your new license will be printed and you can leave with it the same day. If they do not take a photo, your new license will be mailed to you within two to four weeks. There is usually no fee for an in-person address change, but bring a debit or credit card just in case your state charges a small fee.

What Happens After You Submit Your Change

Once you submit your address change—online, by mail, or in person—the DMV will process it and mail your new license to your new address. This takes two to four weeks depending on how busy the DMV is and how you submitted the request. You can continue to drive on your old license during this time; you do not need to stop driving while you wait.

Check your mail regularly for your new license. When it arrives, compare the address on the front to make sure it matches your new address exactly. If the address is wrong, contact your state's DMV when ready and ask them to send a corrected license. Keep your old license until the new one arrives, then destroy it or return it to the DMV if your state requests it.

If You Moved to a Different State

If you moved out of state, you cannot straightforward change the address on your old license. You must get a new driver's license from your new state's DMV. Each state has its own license format and requirements, so your old license from another state is not valid for driving in your new state after a certain grace period (usually 30 to 90 days, depending on the state).

Contact your new state's DMV to find out what documents you need to bring—typically a proof of residency (utility bill or lease), proof of identity (passport or birth certificate), and proof of your Social Security number. You will also need to pass a vision test and may need to take a written driving test depending on your new state's rules. Schedule an appointment online if your state offers it, or visit a DMV office in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online if I just moved?

Yes, you can change your address online as soon as you have your new address. You do not have to wait for your lease to be signed or your utility bill to arrive. However, when your new license arrives by mail, the DMV will send it to the address you entered, so make sure it is correct and that you will be there to receive it.

What if I made a mistake on my address change?

Contact your state's DMV as soon as you notice the error. If you submitted online, call the DMV phone number on their website and explain the mistake. If you mailed in a form, call right away to see if they can correct it before your new license is printed. If your new license arrives with the wrong address, you will need to submit another address change request.

Do I have to change my address if I move?

Most states require you to update your driver's license address within a certain time frame—usually 10 to 30 days after you move. Driving with an outdated address can result in a fine if you are pulled over. Even if there is no strict important date in your state, it is a good idea to update it so the DMV has your correct address for license renewal notices and other official mail.

How much does it cost to change my address?

Most states do not charge a fee to change your address online or in person. Some states charge a small fee ($5 to $15) if you mail in a form, usually to cover processing costs. Check your state's DMV website to see if there is a fee before you submit your request.

Can I change my address without getting a new license?

No. When you change your address with the DMV, they will issue you a new license with your updated address printed on it. You cannot keep your old license with the old address. Your new license will arrive by mail within two to four weeks.