Where to go and what you need
You change your ID address at the same place you got the ID in the first place. For a driver's license or state ID card, that is your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency — it may be called the Secretary of State's office, Division of Motor Vehicles, or something similar depending on your state. For a passport, you go to a passport acceptance facility, usually a post office or courthouse. For a Real ID-compliant card, you follow the same DMV process as a regular driver's license.
Most states let you change your address online, by mail, or in person. Online is fastest — usually takes a few minutes and costs nothing. By mail takes one to two weeks. In person at a DMV office takes an hour or two but is done the same day. Check your state's DMV website to see which methods are open right now, because some states temporarily close online services during high-traffic periods.
You will need your current ID and proof of your new address. Proof of address means a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and new address on it. Some states accept a government letter addressed to you, like a tax notice or voter registration card. A few states accept a signed affidavit if you cannot get a document — ask your DMV what counts before you go.
Key Takeaways
- Contact your state's DMV or equivalent agency to change your driver's license or state ID address; for a passport, go to a passport acceptance facility like a post office.
- Most states offer online address changes that take minutes and cost nothing, while mail takes one to two weeks and in-person visits take a few hours.
- You will need your current ID and a recent document showing your name and new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
- Some states issue a new physical card with your updated address; others update the record but keep your old card valid until it expires.
Online address changes
If your state offers online changes, you log into your DMV account, enter your new address, and pay any fee (usually zero to ten dollars). The system updates your record when ready. Your old ID card remains valid — the address on the card does not change, but the DMV's record shows your current address. When your ID expires, you renew it with the new address printed on the replacement card.
A few states require you to upload a photo of your proof of address. Have your utility bill or lease ready before you start. If the upload fails, the system usually tells you why — common reasons are the document is too dark, the address is not clearly visible, or the file is too large. Take a new photo in good light and try again.
If your state's website does not offer an online option or the system is down, call the DMV's main number to ask when it will be back up. Do not assume it is permanently closed.
Changing your address by mail
read the address change form from your state's DMV website or call to request one. Fill it out with your current ID number, new address, and signature. Attach a copy of your proof of address — a photocopy of your utility bill or lease is fine. Mail the form and copy to the address listed on the form, usually a DMV processing center.
Processing takes one to three weeks depending on mail speed and the DMV's workload. You will not receive a new card unless you pay a replacement fee, which varies by state — some charge five to fifteen dollars, others charge nothing. If you do not pay the fee, your old card stays valid and the DMV's record updates. When you renew your ID at expiration, the new card will show your updated address.
Keep a copy of what you mailed in case the DMV loses it. If you do not hear back within four weeks, call the DMV to confirm they received it.
Changing your address in person at the DMV
Bring your current ID, proof of your new address, and any completed forms your state requires. Check the DMV website for the form — some states have you fill it out at home, others have you do it at the office. Arrive early; DMV offices are usually busiest mid-morning and mid-afternoon on weekdays. Many states now let you book an appointment online, which cuts your wait time from an hour to fifteen minutes.
Tell the clerk you are changing your address only, not renewing your ID. If your ID is not expiring soon, you usually do not have to pay anything. The DMV updates your record on the spot. Your old card stays valid; the new address goes into the system. If you want a new card printed with the updated address right away, you will pay a replacement fee — ask the clerk what it costs before you decide.
Passport address changes
A passport does not require you to update your address with the State Department. Your passport remains valid even if you move. However, if you want the address in your passport to match your current one, you can request a replacement passport with the new address printed in it.
You do this by submitting Form DS-11 (for a new passport book) or Form DS-82 (if you are renewing) at a passport acceptance facility — usually a post office, courthouse, or library. Bring your current passport, proof of citizenship, government-issued photo ID, and proof of your new address. The process takes the same time as a regular passport process: about six weeks for routine service, or two to three weeks for expedited service (which costs extra).
If your passport is expiring soon anyway, it makes sense to renew it with the new address. If it has years left, most people skip the replacement and just keep the old address in the book — it does not affect the passport's validity.
What happens to your old ID after you change the address
Your old ID card stays valid. The address printed on it does not matter — law enforcement and businesses check the ID number and photo, not the address. The DMV's computer shows your current address, which is what matters for voting, jury duty, and official records.
You do not have to destroy your old card. Keep it until you get a replacement or until it expires. If you lose it, report it to the DMV the same way you would report a lost ID.
Fees and timelines by method
| Method | Cost | Time to Update | New Card Printed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | $0–$10 | Minutes | No (at renewal) |
| By mail | $0–$15 (if you want new card) | 1–3 weeks | Only if you pay fee |
| In person at DMV | $0–$15 (if you want new card) | Same day | Only if you pay fee |
| Passport replacement | $130–$165 (routine); $60 extra (expedited) | 6 weeks (routine); 2–3 weeks (expedited) | Yes, new passport issued |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to get a new ID card when I move?
No. Your old ID remains valid. You only need to update your address with the DMV's records. You get a new card printed only if you pay a replacement fee or if you renew your ID at expiration. Many people update the address in the system but keep their old card until it expires.
What counts as proof of address?
A recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and new address works in all states. Some states also accept government mail like a tax notice or voter registration card. A few accept a signed affidavit if you cannot get a document. Check your state's DMV website for the exact list.
Can I change my address online if I just moved?
Yes, in most states. You log in, enter your new address, and upload a photo of your proof of address if required. It takes minutes and costs nothing. A few states limit online changes to addresses within the same state or do not allow them during certain times of year — check your DMV website to see if your situation qualifies.
How long does it take to change my address by mail?
One to three weeks, depending on mail delivery and how busy the DMV is. Send your form and proof of address to the address listed on the form. Keep a copy of what you sent. If you do not hear back within four weeks, call the DMV to confirm they received it.
What if I moved out of state?
You need to get a new ID from your new state's DMV. You cannot just update the address on an ID from another state. Bring your old ID, proof of residency in your new state, proof of citizenship, and a Social Security number verification document. The process is the same as getting your first ID in that state.