You can update your Georgia address online, by mail, or in person at a DDS office — the fastest way is online if you have a valid email on file

Georgia lets you change your address without renewing your license. The method you choose depends on how soon you need the change recorded and whether you want a new card in the mail. Online is fastest — it takes minutes and costs nothing — but it only updates the state's record, not the physical card. If you need a new card with your updated address printed on it, you'll go through a renewal process instead, which costs the standard renewal fee.

Your address change becomes official the moment the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) processes it, whether you do it online or in person. Insurance companies, voter registration, and other agencies don't automatically know about the change — you may need to notify them separately. A new physical card with your updated address is optional and takes about two weeks to arrive by mail.

Key Takeaways

  • Online address changes through the Georgia DDS website are free and take effect when ready, but they don't print a new card.
  • You can change your address in person at any DDS office with a proof of residence document, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • If you want a new card printed with your updated address, you'll pay a renewal fee and wait about two weeks for it to arrive.
  • Your insurance company, voter registration, and other agencies won't automatically receive your new address — contact them separately.
  • You must update your address within 30 days of moving to a new Georgia residence.

Changing Your Address Online

The Georgia DDS online portal is the quickest option if you have an email address on file with your current license. Go to the DDS website, select "Change Address," and log in with your driver's license number and date of birth. You'll enter your new Georgia address and confirm it. The change is recorded when ready and costs nothing.

This method updates only the state's record of where you live. Your physical license card will still show your old address. If you need a card with the new address printed on it, you'll need to renew your license through the standard renewal process, which involves a fee and a two-week wait for the new card to arrive by mail.

Changing Your Address by Mail

You can mail a change-of-address request to the Georgia DDS along with proof that you live at your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government-issued mail with your name and new address. Make a copy of your proof of residence and mail both it and a written request with your name, license number, and new address to the DDS mailing address listed on their website.

Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks. Like the online method, this updates your record but does not print a new card. Keep a copy of what you mail in case the DDS needs to follow up with you.

Changing Your Address in Person at a DDS Office

Walk into any Georgia DDS office with proof of your new address and your current license. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or other official mail showing your name and new Georgia address. The staff will update your record on the spot, and the change takes effect when ready. There is no fee for an address-only change.

In-person changes are useful if you want confirmation right away or if you prefer to handle it face-to-face. You can find your nearest DDS office and its hours on the Georgia DDS website. Bring your current license and one piece of proof of residence — that's all you need.

Getting a New Card With Your Updated Address

If you want a physical license card that shows your new address, you'll renew your license rather than straightforward change your address. A renewal costs the standard renewal fee (which varies depending on your license type and how many years you're renewing for) and takes about two weeks for the new card to arrive by mail. You can renew online, by mail, or in person, depending on your situation and when your license expires.

A renewal prints a new card with your updated address on it, but it also resets your license expiration date. If your license doesn't expire for several years, renewing early just to get a new card with your address on it may not be worth the cost. Many people straightforward update their address in the system and keep their old card, since the address on the physical card is not what matters legally — the address in the DDS database is what counts.

What Happens After You Change Your Address

Once the DDS records your new address, that's your official address with the state. However, other organizations don't automatically know about the change. You'll need to contact your car insurance company, your voter registration office, and any other agencies or businesses that have your address on file. Most insurance companies let you update your address online, by phone, or through your agent.

If you're moving out of Georgia, you'll need to get a new license from your new state rather than straightforward changing your address. Georgia recognizes your license as valid until it expires, but you're required by law to get a new state's license within a set time frame (usually 30 days) after moving.

Proof of Residence Documents You Can Use

The Georgia DDS accepts several documents as proof that you live at your new address. These include current utility bills (electric, gas, water, or internet), a signed lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, property tax documents, or government-issued mail with your name and address. The document must show your full name and your new Georgia address, and it should be recent — typically from the last 60 days.

If you've just moved and don't yet have a utility bill or lease in your name at the new address, ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your residency, or bring a copy of your lease with your signature and theirs. The DDS staff can tell you whether a specific document will work if you're unsure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address within 30 days of moving?

Yes, Georgia law requires you to notify the DDS of your new address within 30 days of moving. Failing to do so can result in a fine. However, the address change itself is free, and you can do it online in minutes.

Will my insurance company automatically know about my address change?

No. The DDS does not share address changes with insurance companies. You must contact your insurer separately to update your address. Most insurance companies let you make this change online, by phone, or through your agent.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

You can update your address in the DDS system even if your license is expired, but you cannot use an expired license as identification. If your license is expired, you'll need to renew it at the same time or before you need to use it as ID.

How long does it take to get a new card with my updated address?

If you renew your license to get a new card, the new card typically arrives by mail within two weeks. The address change in the system takes effect when ready, but the physical card with the new address takes time to print and mail.

What if I'm moving out of Georgia?

If you're moving to another state, you'll need to get a driver's license from that state instead of updating your Georgia address. Most states require you to get a new license within 30 days of moving. You can keep your Georgia license as a form of ID, but it won't be valid for driving in your new state.