You can update your Georgia driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a DDS office

When you move to a new address in Georgia, you need to tell the Department of Driver Services (DDS) within a specific timeframe. The fastest way is online through the DDS website if you have a valid Georgia license and a recent address change. If you cannot use the online system, you can mail in a form or visit a DDS office in person. The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the update and whether you want a new physical card or just a record change.

Georgia law requires you to notify DDS of an address change within 30 days of moving. Driving with an outdated address on your license is not illegal, but having current information on file matters for vehicle registration, insurance, and if you are pulled over. The good news is that updating your address does not require a new photo or a new test — it is a straightforward record update.

Key Takeaways

  • You must report your address change to DDS within 30 days of moving, though you can update it anytime after that.
  • The online method through the DDS website is the fastest option if your license is valid and you have proof of your new address.
  • If you mail in your change, send Form DL-43 with proof of your new address to the DDS address on the form.
  • Visiting a DDS office in person takes longer due to wait times but guarantees your change is processed when ready.
  • You can request a new physical card with your updated address, but you do not have to — your record update alone is sufficient.

Update your address online through the DDS website

The online method is the fastest and most convenient option if you meet the requirements. You will need your valid Georgia driver's license number, your Social Security number, your date of birth, and proof of your new address. Proof can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your new address.

Go to the DDS website and select the address change option. You will enter your personal information and upload an image of your proof of address. The system will verify your identity and process the change. Once approved, your address is updated in the DDS system when ready. If you want a new physical card mailed to you, you can request one during this process for a small fee, though it is optional.

The online system works only if your Georgia license is currently valid and not suspended or revoked. If your license has expired or is not valid, you will need to use the mail or in-person method instead.

Mail in your address change using Form DL-43

If you prefer to update by mail or cannot use the online system, read or request Form DL-43 (process for Duplicate Driver's License) from the DDS website. Fill out the form with your current information and your new address. You do not need to fill in every field — focus on your name, license number, date of birth, and new address.

Include proof of your new address with the form. Acceptable documents are the same as for online: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Make a copy of both the form and your proof for your records, then mail everything to the address listed on the form. Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks.

You do not need to include your physical license card with the mailed form. If you want a new card with your updated address, note that on the form and include the fee. Otherwise, your address will be updated in the system, and your current card remains valid even though it shows your old address.

Visit a DDS office in person

You can walk into any DDS office in Georgia and update your address at the counter. Bring your valid driver's license, proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement from the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. The staff will verify your information and process the change on the spot.

In-person visits may provide when ready processing, but DDS offices often have long wait times, especially during peak hours or near the end of the month. Call ahead or check the DDS website to see current wait times at your nearest office. If you want a new physical card, you can request one and pay the fee while you are there; it will be mailed to your new address within one to two weeks.

You do not need an appointment at most DDS offices, but some locations now offer appointment scheduling through the DDS website. Booking an appointment can reduce your wait time significantly.

Understand what happens to your physical license card

Your current driver's license card remains valid even after you update your address. The card will still show your old address, but the DDS system will have your new one on file. This is perfectly legal and acceptable — police officers and other officials can see your current address when they scan your license.

If you want a new card printed with your updated address, you can request one through any of the three methods above. There is a fee for a replacement card, which varies but is typically under $35. The new card will be mailed to your new address and should arrive within one to two weeks. Requesting a new card is optional; updating your address in the system is what matters legally.

What to do if you move out of state

If you move out of Georgia, you do not need to notify Georgia DDS. However, you will need to get a driver's license from your new state within a certain timeframe — most states require this within 30 to 60 days of establishing residency. Your Georgia license remains valid for driving until it expires, but you should transfer to your new state's license as soon as you are may be able to access.

When you explore for your new state's license, you will typically need your Georgia license, proof of your new address, and proof of residency in the new state. The process varies by state, so check your new state's DMV or equivalent agency for specific requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to get a new card if I change my address?

No. Updating your address in the DDS system is all that is required by law. Your current card remains valid even with the old address printed on it. Getting a new card is optional and costs a fee.

What counts as proof of my new address?

A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and new address all work. The document must be an official statement, not a screenshot or informal letter.

How long does it take to update my address?

Online updates process when ready. Mail takes two to three weeks. In-person updates at a DDS office are when ready. If you request a new physical card, it arrives by mail in one to two weeks regardless of which method you use.

Can I update my address if my license is expired?

No, the online system requires a valid license. If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, you must update your address by mail or in person at a DDS office.

What if I move and do not update my address within 30 days?

You can still update your address anytime after 30 days — there is no penalty for being late. However, it is best to update as soon as possible so your records are current for insurance, vehicle registration, and legal purposes.