You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at a Washington Department of Licensing office

Washington lets you update your driver's license address without getting a new card. The fastest way is online through the Department of Licensing website if you have a valid Washington license and a current email address. If you prefer not to go online, you can mail in a form or visit a licensing office in person. None of these routes requires you to retake a test or pay a fee — you are straightforward updating the record.

The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the change recorded and whether you want to keep your current card. All three routes update your address in the state system within days, but only the in-person visit produces a new physical card with your updated address printed on it.

Key Takeaways

  • The online change takes about five minutes and updates your address in the system within one business day, though your physical card still shows the old address.
  • Mailing in the form (DL 43) takes one to two weeks but requires no trip to an office and no online account.
  • Visiting a licensing office in person produces a new card with your updated address printed on it, usually ready the same day or within a few days.
  • You do not need to bring your old license, pay a fee, or provide proof of residence for an address change — only for a replacement card.

Changing your address online through the Department of Licensing website

Go to dol.wa.gov and sign in with your Washington driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You will need access to the email address on file with your license. Once you are logged in, select "Change Address" and enter your new Washington address. The system will confirm the change when ready and send you an email receipt.

Your address updates in the state system within one business day. However, your physical driver's license card will still show your old address until you get a replacement. If you need a card with the new address printed on it, you can request a replacement card through the same online portal for $20, or visit an office in person.

Mailing in a change-of-address form

read or request form DL 43 (Change of Address) from the Department of Licensing. Fill in your driver's license number, your new address, and sign the form. Mail it to the address listed on the form — currently the Department of Licensing, P.O. Box 9030, Olympia, WA 98507-9030. Include your old license if you want, but it is not required.

Processing takes one to two weeks from the date the office receives your form. You will not receive a confirmation in the mail, but you can check your address online through your dol.wa.gov account after a few days. Like the online method, mailing the form updates your address in the system but does not produce a new card.

Visiting a Department of Licensing office in person

Find your nearest licensing office at dol.wa.gov/offices. Bring your current driver's license and be ready to state your new address. You do not need to bring proof of residence, pay a fee, or schedule an appointment at most offices, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

The staff will update your address on the spot and issue you a new card with the updated address printed on it. In most cases you can take the new card with you the same day, though some offices may mail it to you within a few days. Call ahead if you want to confirm whether your office issues cards on-site or by mail.

When you need a replacement card instead of just an address change

If your license is damaged, lost, or stolen, you will need a replacement card rather than a straightforward address change. A replacement costs $20 and requires you to visit an office in person or request one online. You will need to bring your old license if you have it, or provide other identification such as a passport or state ID card.

If you are moving out of state, you cannot straightforward change your address on a Washington license — you will need to get a license from your new state. Washington will not renew or replace a license for someone who no longer lives in the state.

What happens if you do not update your address

Your license remains valid even if your address is outdated. However, if you are pulled over, the officer will see the old address on your card. This can slow down the traffic stop and may raise questions about whether you still live in Washington. If you move and do not update your address within a certain period, you may face issues renewing your license later.

More importantly, official mail from the state — including license renewal notices and vehicle registration documents — will go to your old address. You may miss important important date if you do not update your address before moving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to show proof that I live at my new address?

No. Washington does not require proof of residence for an address change. You only need your current driver's license and your new address. Proof of residence is only required if you are getting a replacement card due to loss or damage.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

You can update your address online or by mail with an expired license. If you visit an office in person, staff can usually help you, but they may ask you to renew your license at the same time. Renewing costs $72 for an eight-year license and requires a new photo and eye test.

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

If you visit an office in person, you usually get the card the same day or within a few days. If you request a replacement online, it is mailed to you and typically arrives within one to two weeks. The online and mail address-change methods do not produce a new card — they only update the system.

What if I move before my address change is processed?

You can submit another address change at any time. If you have already mailed a form, you can submit a new one with your current address. If you changed your address online or in person, you can update it again when ready through the same method.

Do I have to change my address on my license if I move within Washington?

You are not legally required to change your address on your driver's license, but it is strongly recommended. Your license remains valid, but official mail from the state will go to your old address, and you may miss renewal notices or vehicle registration updates.