You can change your address online in most cases, but the method depends on which country issued your licence
In the United States, you cannot change your driving licence address through a national online system. Each state runs its own licensing authority, and most require you to visit a local DMV office or equivalent in person. A few states — including California, Florida, and Texas — let you update your address online through their specific DMV websites, but only if your licence is not expired and you meet other conditions set by that state.
In the United Kingdom, you can change your address online through the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) website if you have a photocard licence. The process takes about 5 minutes and costs nothing. In Canada, the process varies by province: Ontario allows online address changes through ServiceOntario, while other provinces require a visit to a licensing office or submission by mail.
Before you attempt an online change, check your state or country's official licensing website to confirm whether online updates are available where you live and what documents or information you will need.
Key Takeaways
- In the US, only some states offer online address changes through their DMV websites; most still require an in-person visit.
- The UK allows online address updates through the DVLA website for photocard licences at no cost.
- Canada's process depends on your province — Ontario offers online changes, but other provinces do not.
- You will need your licence number, current address, and new address to complete an online change where it is available.
- If your licence is expired or damaged, you may not be able to change the address online and will need to renew it instead.
How to change your address online in the US (where available)
Start by visiting your state's DMV website and searching for "address change" or "update address." Not all states offer this option, so if you cannot find an online form, you will need to visit an office in person or mail a change-of-address form.
States that currently allow online address changes include California (through the DMV website), Florida (through the online services portal), and Texas (through the DPS website). Each state's process is slightly different, but generally you will need to enter your licence number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You will then provide your new address and confirm the change. Most states do not charge a fee for an address-only change.
After you submit the change online, you should receive a confirmation email or number. Your updated licence will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days in most cases. You do not need to take a new photo or retake a test — only the address on the back of your card changes.
How to change your address online in the UK
Visit the DVLA website and select "Change your address" under the "Driving licence" section. You will need your National Insurance number, driving licence number, and postcode. The system will ask you to confirm your current address and enter your new one.
The change is processed when ready, and you will receive a confirmation page. Your updated photocard licence will be posted to you within 5 working days. There is no charge for an address change. If your licence is lost, stolen, or damaged, you cannot change the address online and must renew the licence instead, which costs £20 and takes longer.
How to change your address in Canada by province
Ontario residents can update their address online through the ServiceOntario website. You will need your driver's licence number and date of birth. The change takes effect when ready, and you do not need to pay a fee. Your updated licence will arrive by mail.
In British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan, you must visit a licensing office in person or submit a change-of-address form by mail. Quebec, Nova Scotia, and other provinces have their own processes — check your provincial licensing authority's website for the exact steps. Some provinces charge a small fee (usually $10 to $20) for address changes, while others do not.
What information you will need to change your address online
Regardless of where you live, have the following ready before you start:
- Your current driving licence number
- Your date of birth
- Your current address as it appears on your licence
- Your new address
- The last four digits of your Social Security number (US only) or National Insurance number (UK only)
Some systems will also ask for your postcode or ZIP code. If you do not have this information readily available, the online form will not let you proceed, so gather it before you log in.
When you cannot change your address online
If your licence is expired, suspended, or revoked, you cannot change the address online in most places. You will need to renew or reinstate your licence first, which requires an in-person visit and may involve a new photo, a vision test, or a written test depending on how long it has been expired.
If your licence is damaged, lost, or stolen, you also cannot use the online address-change system. Instead, you must explore for a replacement licence, which is a separate process that usually costs more than an address change alone (typically $20 to $50 in the US, depending on the state).
If you have recently moved and your licence still shows your old address but you have not yet received your updated card, you can still use your current licence for driving. However, if you are stopped by police, carry proof of your new address (such as a utility bill or lease) to avoid confusion.
How long it takes to receive your updated licence
In the US, updated licences typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days after you submit the change online. In the UK, the DVLA sends updated photocard licences within 5 working days. In Canada, Ontario usually takes 5 to 10 business days, while other provinces may take 2 to 4 weeks depending on whether you submitted the change online, by mail, or in person.
During the waiting period, your old licence is still valid for driving. You do not need to carry proof of your address change unless you are asked for it by police or another authority. If your updated licence does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact your licensing authority to check the status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address on my driving licence?
In most places, you are required by law to update your licence address within a certain time frame after you move — usually 10 to 30 days. Driving with an outdated address can result in a fine if you are stopped. However, an outdated address does not make your licence invalid for driving purposes.
Can I change my address if my licence is expired?
No. You must renew your licence first, which requires an in-person visit and a new photo in most cases. Once your new licence is issued, you can then change the address if needed, though the renewal process usually allows you to provide your current address at that time.
What if I move again before my updated licence arrives?
You can submit another address change once you receive your updated licence. Some systems allow you to change your address again when ready, while others require you to wait until the first change has been processed. Contact your licensing authority if you are unsure.
Is there a fee to change my address online?
In the US and UK, address-only changes are free. In Canada, most provinces do not charge a fee for online or in-person address changes, though a few charge $10 to $20. Check your provincial licensing authority's website for current fees.
Can I change my address if I have a commercial driving licence?
The process is the same as for a regular licence in most places. However, some states and provinces have separate systems for commercial licences, so check your licensing authority's website to find the correct form or online portal for your licence type.