What You Need to Do to Update Your Address in Georgia
You can change the address on your Georgia driver's license without renewing the license itself. Georgia allows you to update your address through the Department of Driver Services (DDS) in three ways: in person at a DDS office, by mail, or online through the Georgia DDS website. The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the change processed and whether you want a replacement card mailed to your new address.
An address change does not extend your license expiration date and does not cost a fee. Your current license remains valid; only the address record in the DDS system updates. If you want a new physical card printed with your updated address, you can request one, though this is optional.
Key Takeaways
- Georgia allows address changes online, by mail, or in person at any DDS office, and the change is free.
- You do not need to renew your license to change your address; your current license stays valid with the old address printed on it unless you order a replacement card.
- Online address changes process fastest and update your DDS record when ready, but do not produce a new physical card.
- If you request a replacement card with your new address, it takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail.
- You must have a valid Georgia driver's license or ID card to change your address; you cannot change the address on an expired or suspended license.
Changing Your Address Online
The online method is the fastest and requires no documents to be mailed or scanned. Go to the Georgia DDS website, select the address change option, and log in with your driver's license number and date of birth. You will enter your new address and confirm the change. The update appears in the DDS system when ready.
Online changes do not produce a new physical card. Your old card with the old address printed on it remains valid for driving and identification. However, if you need a card that shows your current address, you can request a replacement card during the online process for a fee (typically $20 to $32, depending on card type). The replacement card will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days.
One limitation: you can only change your address online if your license is not suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license status is not current, you must visit a DDS office in person or renew your license first.
Changing Your Address by Mail
To change your address by mail, read the DDS Address Change form from the Georgia DDS website or request one by phone at 678-413-8400. Complete the form with your current license number, new address, and signature. Include a copy of your current driver's license (front and back) and mail the packet to the address listed on the form.
Processing by mail takes 2 to 3 weeks after DDS receives your form. During this time, your address in the system has not yet changed, so if you need proof of your new address for other purposes (rental applications, bank accounts), the online method or an in-person visit is faster. Like the online method, a mail address change does not include a new physical card unless you request and pay for one.
Keep a copy of everything you mail. If your form does not arrive or is lost, you will have proof of what you sent and when.
Changing Your Address in Person at a DDS Office
Visit any DDS Customer Service Center with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Acceptable proof of address includes a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. Bring the original document or a certified copy.
The address change is processed on the spot, and your DDS record updates when ready. You do not receive a new physical card unless you request one and pay the replacement fee. If you do request a replacement card, it will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days.
In-person visits are useful if you also need to handle other DDS business (renewing your license, updating your name, correcting information) at the same time. DDS offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some locations offering extended hours. Check the DDS website for office locations and hours near you.
Documents and Proof of Address You Will Need
| Method | Documents Required | Proof of Address Required |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Driver's license number and date of birth | No document needed |
| By Mail | Completed DDS Address Change form, copy of driver's license (front and back) | No separate document; form includes new address |
| In Person | Current driver's license | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within 60 days |
When You Need a Replacement Card With Your New Address
Your current driver's license remains valid for driving and most identification purposes even after you change your address in the DDS system. The old address stays printed on the card. However, some situations require a card that shows your current address: opening a bank account, explore for credit, or satisfying requirements for certain jobs or housing.
If you need a replacement card, you can request one during any address change method. The fee is typically $20 for a standard replacement card or $32 for a REAL ID-compliant card. The card is mailed to your new address and arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue using your old card until the new one arrives.
If you are changing your address in person at a DDS office, tell the staff member you want a replacement card and pay the fee at that time. If you are changing your address online or by mail, you will have the option to request a replacement card as part of the process.
Common Mistakes and What to Avoid
Do not assume your old card is invalid after an address change. It is not. Your license remains valid for driving and identification; only the address record in the DDS system changes. You do not need to carry proof of your address change or a letter from DDS unless a specific organization asks for it.
Do not mail original documents. If you are changing your address by mail, send copies only. Keep originals for your records. Do not include payment with a mail form; address changes are free, and DDS will not process a form that includes unsolicited payment.
Do not attempt to change the address on an expired or suspended license online. You must renew or restore your license first, either in person or by mail. If you are unsure of your license status, call DDS at 678-413-8400 before attempting an online change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to get a new card if I change my address?
No. Your current license remains valid. The address in the DDS system updates, but the old address stays printed on your card. You can request a replacement card with your new address for a fee, but it is not required for driving or most identification purposes.
How long does it take to change my address?
Online changes update when ready. In-person changes process on the spot. Mail changes take 2 to 3 weeks after DDS receives your form. If you request a replacement card, add 7 to 10 business days for mailing, regardless of which method you use.
What counts as proof of my new address?
Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. Bring the original or a certified copy to a DDS office. Online and mail methods do not require separate proof documents.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
No. You must renew your license first. Address changes are only available for valid, non-suspended licenses. If your license is expired, contact DDS or visit a DDS office to renew before changing your address.
Is there a fee to change my address?
No. The address change itself is free. You only pay a fee if you request a replacement card with your new address printed on it, which costs $20 to $32 depending on card type.