The fastest way to change your address in Georgia
You can change your address on your Georgia driver's license online through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website, by mail, or in person at a DDS office. The online method takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The change shows up in the system right away, though your physical license still shows the old address until it expires and you renew it.
If you prefer not to go online, you can mail a completed form to DDS or visit a local office. In-person visits take about 30 minutes including wait time. Mail takes 7 to 10 business days. All three methods are free — Georgia does not charge a fee to update your address.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change through the Georgia DDS website is free and takes effect when ready in the system.
- You need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address to change it online.
- If you mail the change, use form DL 43 and send it to the DDS address listed on the form; it takes 7 to 10 business days.
- Your physical license card will still show your old address until you renew it, but the address in the system updates right away.
- You do not need to visit an office or pay a fee unless you also need a new card printed with your updated address.
Changing your address online through the DDS website
Go to dds.georgia.gov and look for the "Online Services" section. Click on "Change Address" or "Update Address." You will be asked to enter your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. Then enter your new street address, city, state, and ZIP code.
Review the information for accuracy before submitting. Once you submit, you will see a confirmation message on screen. The address change is recorded in the DDS system when ready. You can use this new address for mail from the state, insurance companies, and other organizations that check the DDS database. Your physical license card will not change — it will still show your old address until you renew your license at its expiration date.
Mailing your address change to DDS
read or request form DL 43 (Change of Address) from the Georgia DDS website. Fill in your name, driver's license number, old address, and new address. Sign and date the form. Mail it to the address printed on the form — currently the DDS office in Atlanta, though you should verify the current mailing address on the form itself.
Include a copy of a document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. DDS uses this to confirm you actually live at the new address. Mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days, and DDS may take another few days to process the form after it arrives. You will not receive a confirmation letter — the change is complete when it appears in the system.
Updating your address in person at a DDS office
Visit any DDS office in Georgia with your current driver's license and a document showing your new address (utility bill, lease, bank statement, or similar). Bring the original document or a certified copy — a photo of the document usually is not accepted. Tell the staff member you want to change your address. They will update it in the system while you wait.
The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes at the counter. You will walk out with your address changed in the system when ready. Your physical license still shows the old address. If you want a new card printed with your new address, you can request one at the same visit, though this may cost a fee and take additional time. Check the DDS website for your nearest office location and current hours.
What documents you need for an in-person visit
Bring your current Georgia driver's license and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail addressed to you at your new address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and show your full name and new street address.
If you do not have a document in your name, you may be able to use a document in a spouse's or household member's name along with proof of your relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, or similar). Call your local DDS office ahead of time if you are unsure whether your document will be accepted — policies can vary slightly by location.
When you need a new physical license card
Your address change in the DDS system takes effect when ready no matter which method you use. However, your physical license card will still show your old address until you renew it. Most people do not need a new card printed right away — the system address is what matters for traffic stops, insurance, and most official purposes.
If you want a new card with your updated address before your license expires, you can request one at a DDS office. Georgia charges a fee for a replacement card (the amount varies, so check the DDS website). The new card is usually printed on the spot or mailed to you within a few days. If you are renewing your license soon anyway, it is usually cheaper to wait and get the new address printed on your renewal card.
How long the change takes depending on your method
| Method | Time to Complete | When Address Updates in System | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online at dds.georgia.gov | About 10 minutes | when ready | Free |
| Mail form DL 43 | 7 to 10 business days | After DDS receives and processes | Free |
| In person at DDS office | 10 to 15 minutes at counter | when ready | Free |
| New physical card (optional) | Same day or a few days by mail | Already updated | Replacement fee applies |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change my address if I just moved?
You should change your address within a reasonable time after moving. Georgia law does not specify an exact important date, but updating it within 30 days is standard practice. Keeping your address current helps may support you receive mail from DDS, your insurance company, and law enforcement if needed.
Will my old license still work if I haven't updated the address yet?
Yes. Your license is valid for traffic stops and identification purposes even if the address is outdated. However, if you are stopped by police, they will see the old address in their system. It is best to update it as soon as you can to avoid confusion.
Can I change my address online if I have a commercial driver's license?
The online address change tool works for standard driver's licenses. If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), contact your local DDS office or call their customer service line to confirm the process, as CDL rules may differ slightly.
What if I moved out of state — do I still need to update my Georgia address?
If you have moved out of Georgia permanently, you should get a driver's license in your new state instead of updating your Georgia address. If you are moving temporarily but keeping your Georgia license, you can update to your new address even if it is out of state.
How do I know if my address change went through?
If you changed it online, you saw a confirmation message when ready. If you mailed the form or visited an office, you can call the DDS customer service line or visit dds.georgia.gov to verify. You can also check by requesting a copy of your driving record, which will show your current address on file.