Where to go and what you need

You change your driver's license address at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Secretary of State office, or equivalent agency—the name varies by state. Most states let you do this in person at a local branch, by mail, or online through their website. Check your state's DMV site first to see which method is fastest right now; some states have long in-person wait times but process mail requests in two weeks.

Bring your current driver's license, proof of your new address, and proof of identity. Proof of address means a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and new address on it—usually dated within the last 60 days. If you don't have a utility bill yet (you just moved), a signed lease or a letter from your landlord works in most states. Some states also accept a government check or tax return as proof of address.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's DMV handles address changes, and most offer online, mail, or in-person options—check their website to see which is fastest in your state right now.
  • You will need your current license, a document showing your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and a photo ID if you don't have your license with you.
  • An address change does not require a new photo or a new license number in most states—the DMV updates your record and mails you a corrected license.
  • Processing time ranges from same-day (in person) to two to four weeks (by mail), depending on your state and the method you choose.
  • If you move again before your corrected license arrives, contact the DMV with your new address so they can send it to the right place.

Changing your address online

Many states now offer online address changes through their DMV website. Go to your state's DMV homepage, look for "change address" or "update license information," and follow the prompts. You will enter your license number, date of birth, and new address. Some states ask you to upload a photo of your proof of address; others just ask you to confirm it. The fee is usually zero to five dollars.

Online changes are the fastest route if your state offers them—you get a confirmation email right away, and the corrected license arrives by mail in one to two weeks. The catch is that not all states offer this option, and some only offer it if your license is not expired. Check your state's DMV site to see if online change is available to you before you make the trip to an office.

Changing your address by mail

If your state does not offer online change, or if you prefer to mail your documents, contact your state DMV to request a change-of-address form. Some states let you read the form from their website; others mail it to you. Fill out the form with your license number, new address, and current address, sign it, and mail it with a copy of your proof of address and your current license (or a photocopy of it).

Mail your packet to the address listed on the form—usually a central DMV processing office, not your local branch. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you want your license back faster. Processing takes two to four weeks. Keep a copy of everything you send in case the DMV loses your packet and you need to resend it.

Changing your address in person

Walk into your local DMV office with your current license, proof of address, and a photo ID (if you have one other than your license). Tell the staff member you want to change your address. They will check your documents, update your record on the computer, and print a temporary paper license on the spot. Your corrected plastic license arrives by mail in one to two weeks.

In-person change is the fastest way to confirm your update is correct, because the DMV staff can tell you right away if your proof of address is acceptable or if you need something else. The downside is wait times—some DMV offices have waits of one to three hours, especially on weekdays. Call ahead or check your state's website to see if you can reserve a time slot; many states now offer this.

What happens if you move before your new license arrives

If you change your address and then move again before the corrected license reaches you, contact your state DMV when ready with your new address. Give them your license number and explain that you submitted an address change but have moved again. The DMV can reissue the license to your new address or hold it for you to pick up at a local office.

Do not ignore mail from the DMV—if your corrected license arrives at your old address and sits there, you may not realize your address was not updated correctly. If you know you are moving soon, wait to change your address until you have settled, or ask the DMV to hold your corrected license at a local office for you to pick up.

Address changes and vehicle registration

Changing your driver's license address does not automatically change your vehicle registration address. You must update your registration separately with your state's DMV, usually at the same office or through the same online system. Some states combine the two updates into one form; others require separate submissions. Check your state's DMV website to see whether you need to file a separate registration change.

Your registration and license address do not have to match, but it is simpler if they do. If they are different, make sure your insurance company has your correct address on file, because that is what matters for claims.

Common mistakes to avoid

The most common mistake is submitting proof of address that is too old or does not have your name on it. A utility bill from six months ago will not work; it needs to be recent. A bill addressed to "Resident" or to a former roommate will not work either. If you are moving into a place you own but have not received mail there yet, ask your realtor or title company for a letter confirming your ownership and move-in date.

Another mistake is assuming your address change is complete when you leave the DMV office. The temporary paper license is proof that you applied, but your address is not officially updated until the plastic license arrives. If you get pulled over before the new license reaches you, the officer will see your old address in the system. This is not a violation—just explain that you recently moved and submitted a change—but it is why you should keep the temporary license or a copy of your change-of-address confirmation in your wallet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a new photo when I change my address?

No. An address change does not require a new photo or a new license number in most states. The DMV updates your record and mails you a corrected license with the same photo and number. A few states do take a new photo, but they will tell you that when you submit your change.

How long does it take to get my corrected license?

In person, you get a temporary paper license the same day and the plastic license arrives by mail in one to two weeks. By mail, processing takes two to four weeks. Online change is usually the fastest—one to two weeks. Times vary by state and how busy the DMV is, so check your state's website for current estimates.

What if my proof of address has my old name on it?

If you recently changed your name and your new address documents still show your old name, bring both your old and new name documents to the DMV. Bring your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change, plus a utility bill or lease in your new name if you have one. The DMV will update both your name and address at the same time.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

Most states let you change your address on an expired license, but some require you to renew it at the same time. Check your state's DMV website or call your local office to confirm. If renewal is required, you will need to renew your license anyway, so doing both together saves a trip.

What if I move to a different state?

You will need to get a new driver's license from your new state. Most states require you to get a new license within 30 to 60 days of moving there. Go to your new state's DMV with your old license, proof of address, and proof of identity. You will take a new photo and get a new license number.