The cost depends on which country issues your licence and whether you need a replacement card

In the United States, changing your address on your driver's license is free in most states — you straightforward update it at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office without paying a fee. However, some states charge a small fee (typically $5 to $15) if you request a replacement card with your new address printed on it, rather than just updating the record in the system.

In the United Kingdom, changing your address with the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) is also free. You can update your address online, by post, or in person, and no fee applies. If you need a replacement photocard because your current one is damaged or lost, you will pay a standard photocard fee (currently £17.50), but this covers the replacement itself, not the address change.

In Canada, the cost varies by province. Most provinces charge between $15 and $50 CAD for an address change that includes a new licence card. Some provinces allow free address updates in the system without issuing a new card, while others require you to get a replacement card if you want the new address printed on it.

Key Takeaways

  • Most U.S. states do not charge to update your address in the DMV system, but some charge $5 to $15 if you want a replacement card with the new address printed on it.
  • The UK charges nothing to change your address with the DVLA, whether you update online, by post, or in person.
  • Canadian provinces typically charge $15 to $50 CAD for an address change that includes a new licence card, though some allow free system updates without a replacement card.
  • Always check your specific state, region, or country's rules before visiting an office, because fees and whether you receive a new card vary widely.

How to find the exact fee for your location

The fastest way to find out what you will pay is to visit your local licensing authority's website and search for "address change fee" or "change of address". Most DMV websites in the U.S. have a fee schedule that lists what you pay for each service, including whether a replacement card costs extra.

If you cannot find the information online, call your local office directly. Have your current licence number ready, and ask whether the address change itself is free or whether a replacement card is required and what that costs. This takes five minutes and saves you a wasted trip.

When you might pay extra without realizing it

Some states bundle the address change with a licence renewal. If your licence is expiring soon, you may be required to renew it at the same time you change your address, which means you pay the full renewal fee (usually $30 to $100) rather than just an address-change fee. Check the expiration date on your current licence before you go in.

A few states charge extra if you request expedited processing or a replacement card delivered by mail instead of picked up in person. Ask about these options when you call ahead so you know the total cost.

Address changes that do not require a new card

In many places, you can update your address in the system without receiving a physical replacement card. Your old card remains valid for identification purposes — only the address on file changes. This is usually free or very cheap, and it is worth asking about if you want to avoid paying for a new card.

However, some employers, banks, or other organisations may ask to see a licence with your current address on it. If that matters for your situation, you may need to pay for the replacement card even if it is not required by law.

What to bring when you change your address

Regardless of cost, you will need to bring proof of your new address. Most licensing offices accept a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail sent to your new address. Bring your current licence and one form of identification as well.

Having these documents ready before you arrive speeds up the process and reduces the chance you will have to make a second trip. Check your local office's website for the exact list of acceptable documents, because requirements vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address on my driving licence?

In most places, you are required by law to notify the licensing authority of an address change within a set time frame (often 10 to 30 days). However, you are not always required to pay for a replacement card — you can often update the address in the system for free and keep your old card.

What if I move to a different state or country?

If you move to a different state in the U.S., you will need to get a new licence from that state's DMV. If you move to a different country, the rules depend on that country's licensing authority. Some countries recognize foreign licences for a limited time; others require you to convert or exchange your licence.

Can I change my address online?

Many U.S. states and the UK allow online address changes, though some still require you to visit an office or mail in a form. Check your local licensing authority's website to see whether online updates are available in your area. Online changes are usually free.

Will I get a new licence number when I change my address?

No. Your licence number stays the same when you change your address. Only the address on file and on the physical card (if you get a replacement) will change.