You can change your Pennsylvania driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a PennDOT office

Pennsylvania offers three routes to update your address on your driver's license or ID card. The fastest is the online method through the PennDOT website, which takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you prefer not to use the online system, you can mail a form to PennDOT or visit a Driver's License Center in person. The method you choose depends on whether you have a current, valid license and whether your address change is recent.

You do not need to renew your license to change your address — this is a separate transaction. Your license remains valid for its original expiration date after you update the address. However, if your license is expired or will expire within 60 days, PennDOT recommends renewing it at the same time rather than changing the address alone.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change through the PennDOT website is free and takes about 10 minutes if your license is current and valid.
  • You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and date of birth to change your address online.
  • If you cannot use the online system, you can mail Form DL-43 (Address Change) to PennDOT with a copy of your license and proof of your new address.
  • In-person address changes at a Driver's License Center do not require an appointment and typically take 15 to 30 minutes.
  • Your new address will appear on your license within 7 to 10 business days if you change it online or by mail; it updates when ready if you change it in person.

Changing your address online through PennDOT

The online method is available only if your Pennsylvania driver's license or ID card is currently valid and not expired. Go to the PennDOT website and select the "Address Change" option under the Driver's License section. You will be asked to enter your driver's license number, Social Security number, date of birth, and your new address. The system will verify your information against PennDOT records.

Once you submit the form online, you will receive a confirmation number. Your new address will be mailed to you on an updated license card within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to pay a fee for an online address change. Your old license remains valid until the new card arrives, so you can continue to use it for identification during that time.

If the online system rejects your information or you receive an error message, it usually means your license number, Social Security number, or date of birth does not match PennDOT's records. In that case, use the mail or in-person method instead.

Mailing an address change form to PennDOT

read or request Form DL-43 (Address Change) from the PennDOT website or call 1-717-787-2937 to have one mailed to you. Complete the form with your current license number, your new address, and your signature. You must also include a copy of your driver's license (both sides) and one document that proves your new address.

Acceptable proof of address includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and your new address. Mail the completed form, your license copy, and the proof of address to:

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Driver's License Section P.O. Box 68691 Harrisburg, PA 17106-8691

Processing by mail takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date PennDOT receives your envelope. There is no fee. Your new address card will be mailed to your new address once the change is processed.

Changing your address in person at a Driver's License Center

You can visit any PennDOT Driver's License Center to change your address without an appointment. Bring your current driver's license and one document that proves your new address (same documents accepted as proof by mail: utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement dated within 60 days). The staff will update your address in the system and print a new license card on the spot.

Processing time at the counter is typically 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the location is. You will pay no fee for an address change. Your new license card is valid when ready, so you can use it for identification as soon as you leave the center. Find your nearest Driver's License Center and current wait times on the PennDOT website.

What documents prove your new address

PennDOT accepts only documents dated within the last 60 days that show both your name and your new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or phone) is the most common proof. Lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, and bank or credit card statements also work. Some Driver's License Centers also accept a letter from a government agency, a voter registration card, or a property deed.

Documents that do not work include mail from retailers, credit offers, or insurance companies that do not show your name clearly. A printed email or screenshot is not accepted. If you have just moved and do not yet have a document in your name at the new address, ask the Driver's License Center staff what alternative proof they will accept — some locations have flexibility for recent movers.

Timeline and what to expect after you change your address

If you change your address online or by mail, your new license card will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. Your old license remains valid during this time. If you change your address in person at a Driver's License Center, your new card is printed when ready and you leave with it the same day.

Your license expiration date does not change when you update your address. If your license expires soon, you may want to renew it at the same time rather than changing the address alone. You can renew online, by mail, or in person using the same methods available for address changes.

Common mistakes to avoid

Do not assume your address has changed in the system until you receive your new card or confirm it in person. Some people change their address online but then move again before the card arrives, which creates confusion. If you are moving multiple times in a short period, wait until you reach your final address before updating PennDOT.

Do not submit documents older than 60 days as proof of address. PennDOT will reject them, and you will have to resubmit. If you are changing your address by mail, make copies of your documents rather than sending originals — PennDOT does not return them. Do not include payment for an address change; there is no fee, and sending money will delay processing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my address if I move within Pennsylvania?

Yes. Pennsylvania law requires you to report an address change within 15 days of moving, whether you stay in the same county or move across the state. Failure to update your address can result in fines and may affect your ability to renew your license later.

What if I moved out of state but still have a Pennsylvania license?

If you have moved out of Pennsylvania permanently, you should obtain a driver's license from your new state rather than updating your Pennsylvania address. If you are temporarily out of state but keeping your Pennsylvania license, you can update your address to an out-of-state address using any of the three methods (online, mail, or in person).

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

No. The online method requires a valid, current license. If your license is expired, you must renew it before you can change your address. You can renew and change your address at the same time by visiting a Driver's License Center in person or by mail.

How long does it take to receive my new card if I change my address online?

Your new card will arrive within 7 to 10 business days. This timeline begins after PennDOT processes your online submission, not from the date you submit it. Your old license remains valid during this waiting period.

What if I do not have proof of my new address yet?

If you have just moved and do not have a utility bill or lease in your name at the new address, contact your nearest Driver's License Center before you visit. Some locations accept alternative documents such as a letter from your landlord, a moving company receipt, or a government agency letter. Calling ahead prevents a wasted trip.