Where to change your address depends on your state
You change your address at the same place you got your license: your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), called the Secretary of State in some states. Most states now let you change your address online through their DMV website without visiting an office. A few still require you to go in person or mail a form. A handful allow you to change it when you renew, but not between renewals.
The fastest route is your state's DMV website. Search "[your state] DMV change address" and look for a link labeled "address change," "update address," or "manage my license." If your state does not offer online changes, the DMV website will tell you whether to mail a form or visit an office in person.
You will need your license number and, usually, your Social Security number. Some states ask for the last four digits of your SSN instead of the full number. Have both pieces of information ready before you start.
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 and Social Security number (or the last four digits) to complete the change.
- If your state does not offer online changes, the DMV website will direct you to mail a form or visit in person.
- A new physical license with your updated address usually arrives in one to three weeks; your old license remains valid until it expires.
- Some states charge a small fee for a replacement card, while others send the updated license at no cost.
Online address changes: the fastest option
Go to your state's official DMV website and look for a section called "Online Services," "Manage Your License," or "Update Your Information." Click the address change option. You will be asked to log in or create an account using your license number, date of birth, and last name.
Enter your new address exactly as it appears on mail you receive at that location. Include the apartment or unit number if you have one. Double-check the spelling and zip code before you submit, because errors can delay your new license or send it to the wrong place.
After you submit, you will see a confirmation screen with a reference number. Write this down or take a screenshot. Your new license will be mailed to your updated address within one to three weeks, depending on your state. Your current license stays valid until it expires, so you do not need to do anything else.
Mailing a form if your state requires it
If your state does not offer online changes, read the address change form from the DMV website. The form is usually called "process for Address Change" or "License Update Form." Print it and fill it out by hand or on your computer.
You will need to include your driver's license number, your new address, and your signature. Some states ask you to include a copy of your license or a recent utility bill showing your new address as proof. Check the form's instructions to see what documents to send.
Mail the form and any required documents to the address listed on the form. Use certified mail if you want proof it arrived. Processing takes two to four weeks after the DMV receives your form. Your new license will be mailed to your new address once it is processed.
In-person changes at a DMV office
A few states require you to change your address in person at a DMV office. Bring your current driver's license, proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security card or a document with your SSN on it.
Go to your nearest DMV office during business hours. Check the office's website first to see if you need an appointment or if you can walk in. Some offices use online reservation systems to reduce wait times. Tell the staff member you need to update your address.
The staff will verify your information, take a new photo if required, and process your change on the spot. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your new plastic card is mailed to you. The new card arrives in one to three weeks.
What counts as proof of your new address
If you are changing your address in person or by mail, you will likely need to show proof that you live at the new location. Acceptable documents usually include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a government letter addressed to you at the new address.
The document must show your name and your new address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you just moved and do not have a utility bill yet, a lease signed by you and your landlord works. If you are staying with someone else temporarily, ask the DMV whether they accept a notarized letter from the homeowner stating you live there.
Fees and what to expect in the mail
Most states do not charge a fee to change your address online. If you change it by mail or in person, some states charge $5 to $15 for a replacement license card, while others send it at no cost. Check your state's DMV website under "Fees" to see whether an address change costs money.
Your new license will arrive in a plain envelope with your state's DMV return address. It looks the same as your old license except for the updated address. Your old license is no longer valid once you receive the new one, but you do not need to destroy it or return it unless your state's DMV specifically asks you to.
If your new license does not arrive within four weeks, contact your state's DMV using the phone number or online chat on their website. Have your reference number (if you changed it online) or your confirmation letter (if you mailed a form) ready.
Changing your address before you move
You can change your address on your license before you move or after you move. There is no penalty either way. Some people change it before moving day so the new license arrives at the new address; others wait until after they move and have proof of the new address.
If you change it before you move, make sure you have the correct address and that mail will reach you there. If you change it after you move, bring proof of the new address (like a utility bill or lease) if you are doing it in person or by mail. Online changes usually do not require proof, so you can update it as soon as you know your new address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
Yes. An expired license is still valid for address changes. You will need to renew your license at the same time if it has been expired for more than a year in your state, but you can change the address first. Check your state's DMV website for renewal requirements.
What if I move to a different state?
You will need to get a new license from your new state's DMV. You cannot just change the address on your old license. Most states require you to get a new license within 30 to 60 days of moving. Bring your old license, proof of your new address, and proof of identity to the new state's DMV office.
Do I need to tell my insurance company about my address change?
Yes. Contact your car insurance company and give them your new address. Your policy may have different rates or coverage options depending on where you live. Updating your address with your insurer keeps your policy accurate and prevents problems if you need to file a claim.
How long does it take to get my new license in the mail?
Most states mail your new license within one to three weeks of processing your change. Online changes are usually processed within a few days, while mailed forms take longer because the DMV has to receive and process them by hand. If you do not receive it within four weeks, contact your state's DMV.
What if I made a mistake on my address change?
Contact your state's DMV right away using the phone number or online chat on their website. If your new license has not been mailed yet, they may be able to correct it before it ships. If it has already been mailed with the wrong address, you will need to request a replacement with the correct address, which may involve a small fee.