You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at the DMV

California requires you to update your driver's license address within 10 days of moving. The fastest way is online through the California DMV website if your address change is the only update you need. If you're also renewing your license, changing your name, or updating other information, you'll need to visit a DMV office or mail in a form. All three routes are free.

The address on your license is the one the DMV uses to send you renewal notices and the one law enforcement sees during a traffic stop. An outdated address can cause mail from the DMV to go to your old home, which means you might miss a renewal important date and drive on an expired license without knowing it.

Key Takeaways

  • You have 10 days from your move to update your address with the California DMV, though updating sooner prevents mail delays.
  • The online method through the DMV website is the fastest option if you're only changing your address and your license is not expiring soon.
  • If your license expires within the next 60 days, you must renew it at the same time you change your address, which requires visiting a DMV office or mailing Form DL 44.
  • Mailing Form DL 43 takes two to three weeks but works if you cannot visit a DMV office and your license is not expiring soon.
  • Visiting a DMV office in person is the only option if you need to change your address and renew your license at the same time.

Changing your address online through the DMV website

The California DMV's online address change tool is available 24 hours a day and takes about 10 minutes. You'll need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and then ask for your new address.

This method works only if your license is not expiring within the next 60 days and you are not changing your name, class, or any other information at the same time. After you submit your change online, the DMV mails you a confirmation notice to your new address within two weeks. You do not receive a new physical card — your current license remains valid with the old address printed on it until it expires, but the DMV's records show your new address.

Go to the California DMV website, select "Address Change" under the "Online Services" section, and follow the prompts. Have your license and Social Security number ready before you start.

Mailing Form DL 43 if your license is not expiring soon

Form DL 43 is the official California address change form. You can read it from the DMV website, print it, fill it out by hand, and mail it to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of a document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works.

Mail your completed form and address proof to the DMV address shown on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks. Like the online method, you will not receive a new card; the DMV updates your records and mails a confirmation notice to your new address.

This route is slower than the online method but works if you do not have internet access or prefer to handle the change by mail. You must still update your address within 10 days of moving, so mail your form as soon as possible after your move.

Visiting a DMV office if your license expires within 60 days

If your license expires within the next 60 days, you cannot change your address online or by mail alone — you must renew your license at the same time. Visit a DMV office in person with your current license, proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the last 60 days), and proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form).

At the office, tell the staff member you need to renew your license and update your address. They will take a new photo, process your renewal, and issue you a new card with your updated address printed on it. You receive the new card on the spot or within two weeks by mail, depending on the office and how busy they are.

Book an appointment online through the DMV website before you go. Walk-ins are accepted but wait times are often longer. Bring all documents with you — staff will not accept documents by email or mail after your visit.

What counts as proof of your new address

The DMV accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or phone), lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. A piece of mail from a government agency also counts. A credit card bill or insurance statement does not.

If you do not have any of these documents yet — for example, if you just moved and have not received a utility bill at your new address — you can use a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead that states your name, your new address, and your move-in date. The letter must be dated and signed.

What happens if you do not update your address on time

California law requires the update within 10 days, but there is no fine or penalty if you miss the important date. However, missing the important date creates real problems. The DMV will mail your renewal notice to your old address, and if you do not receive it, you may not know your license is about to expire. Driving on an expired license can result in a traffic citation.

If you move and do not update your address, the DMV's records will not match your current location. During a traffic stop, an officer will see the old address on your license and may question why you are not living where your license says you live. Update your address as soon as you can after moving to avoid these situations.

Changing your address if you also need to change your name

If you are changing your name and your address at the same time, you cannot do either online or by mail. You must visit a DMV office in person with your current license, a court order or certified copy of your marriage certificate or divorce decree (the document that shows your legal name change), proof of your new address, and proof of your Social Security number.

The staff will process both changes together and issue you a new card with your updated name and address. Book an appointment online before you go. Bring all original documents — photocopies are not accepted for name changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get a new physical card when I change my address online?

No. When you change your address online or by mail, the DMV updates your records but you keep your current card. Your old address stays printed on the card until your license expires and you renew it. The DMV's system shows your new address, which is what law enforcement and government agencies see when they look you up.

What if I move again before my renewal notice arrives?

Update your address again with the DMV as soon as you move. Each time you update, the DMV sends a new confirmation notice to your most recent address. If you move frequently, consider using the online method each time so you do not have to wait for mail processing.

Can I change my address at a DMV office without an appointment?

Yes, walk-ins are accepted at all DMV offices, but appointment holders are served first. Wait times for walk-ins are often one to two hours or longer during busy times. Book an appointment online before you go to avoid the wait.

What if my new address is outside California?

If you move out of California, you must get a driver's license from your new state. Contact that state's DMV to learn what documents you need and whether your California license can be surrendered by mail or must be turned in in person.

How long does it take to receive my confirmation notice after I change my address?

The DMV mails confirmation notices within two weeks of processing your change. If you do not receive it within three weeks, contact the DMV to confirm your address was updated correctly. Keep the confirmation notice for your records.