How to Change Your Address on Your Driver's License

Where to Change Your Address

You change your driver's license address at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), not online and not by mail in most states. The DMV office is the only place that can update your record in the system. Some states let you start the process online or by mail, but you will still need to visit in person to finish it — usually to verify your identity or provide documents the online form cannot capture.

Find your state's DMV website by searching "[your state] DMV" and look for "address change" or "update address." The website will tell you whether you can begin online, what documents you need to bring, and whether you can walk in or must schedule an appointment. Many states now require appointments, especially after the pandemic, so check before you go.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a DMV office in person in most states, though some let you start the process online first.
Bring your current driver's license, proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and proof of identity if your license is expired.
An address change usually costs nothing and takes 10 to 20 minutes at the DMV, though wait times vary widely by location and time of day.
Your new license will arrive by mail in two to four weeks; your old license remains valid until the new one arrives.
Some states let you change your address online without visiting the DMV, so check your state's rules first.

Documents You Need to Bring

Bring your current driver's license and one document that proves your new address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or recent bank statement all work. The document must show your name and the new address, and it should be dated within the last 60 days — rules vary by state, so check your DMV's website for the exact timeframe.

If your license is expired, bring a second form of ID as well: a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card. If you changed your name since your license was issued, bring the document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV staff will tell you when ready if something is missing, so call ahead if you are unsure.

The Address Change Process at the DMV

When you arrive, take a number or check in at the kiosk, depending on your DMV's system. Tell the staff member you are updating your address. They will ask you to confirm your new address and may ask why you moved — this is routine and takes less than a minute. They will scan your documents, take a new photo if your license photo is old, and print a receipt.

The whole process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes from check-in to receipt, though you may wait 30 minutes to an hour depending on how busy the office is. Early morning and mid-week visits are typically faster than afternoons and Fridays. You will pay nothing for an address change in all 50 states.

What Happens After You Leave the DMV

Your new license will arrive by mail in two to four weeks. Your old license stays valid until the new one arrives, so you can still use it for identification. The DMV will send your new license to the address you provided, so make sure it is correct before you leave the office.

If you do not receive your new license within four weeks, call your DMV and give them the receipt number from your visit. They can check the status and reissue if something went wrong in the mail. Do not throw away your old license until the new one arrives — you may need it for travel or other identification.

States That Let You Change Your Address Online

A handful of states let you change your address entirely online without visiting the DMV. These include Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. Your state's DMV website will clearly state whether online address changes are available.

Even in these states, the process is not when ready. You will enter your license number, answer security questions to verify your identity, and provide your new address. The DMV will mail you a new license within two to four weeks, the same as an in-person change. Some states charge a small fee for online changes — usually $5 to $10 — while others charge nothing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The most common mistake is bringing a document that does not show your name or is too old. A utility bill from six months ago will not work; it must be recent. Another mistake is not bringing your current license, which the DMV needs to look up your record. If you have moved since your last license renewal, bring both your old address proof and your new one to be safe.

Do not assume you can change your address by phone or email — you cannot in any state. Do not wait until your license expires to change your address; you can do it anytime. If you are moving out of state, you will need a new license from your new state, not just an address change, so plan for a longer process and more documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

Yes, but you will need a second form of ID to prove your identity. Bring your expired license, proof of your new address, and a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card. The DMV will update your address and issue a new license with a new expiration date.

Do I have to change my address on my license if I move?

No law requires you to update your address when ready, but it is a good idea. An outdated address can cause problems with traffic tickets, jury duty notices, and voter registration. Most states recommend updating within 30 days of moving, though there is no penalty for waiting longer.

What if I made a mistake on my new address at the DMV?

Call your DMV as soon as you realize the error and ask them to correct it before your new license is mailed. If the license arrives with the wrong address, you will need to visit the DMV again to request a corrected one. Some states charge a small fee for corrections.

Can I change my address if I do not have a lease or utility bill?

Some states accept alternative documents like a bank statement, credit card statement, insurance policy, or letter from your employer showing your new address. Call your DMV to ask what they will accept before you visit. If you are homeless or living with someone else, ask about your state's specific rules for address verification.

Will my new license have a different number?

No, your license number stays the same when you change your address. Only your address field updates. Your new license will look the same as your old one except for the address and possibly a new photo if your current one is old.

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.