You can update your address online, by mail, or in person at a ServiceOntario office
When you move to a new address in Ontario, you need to tell ServiceOntario within six days. You do not have to renew your entire license — you only update the address that is printed on it. The fastest way is online through the ServiceOntario website if your license is not expired and you have not changed your name. If your license is expired, damaged, or you have changed your name, you will need to visit a ServiceOntario office or mail in a form instead.
Your driver's license is your proof of residency for many things: opening a bank account, getting a job, renting an apartment. An outdated address can cause real problems, so updating it quickly matters even though there is no penalty for being a few days late.
Key Takeaways
- You must report your new address to ServiceOntario within six days of moving.
- The online update takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing if your license is valid and your name has not changed.
- If your license is expired or you have changed your name, you must visit a ServiceOntario office or mail in the Address Change Form (DL 82).
- ServiceOntario offices are found in most towns and cities; you can book an appointment online or walk in during service hours.
- Your updated license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks of approval.
Updating your address online through ServiceOntario
The online method is the simplest route if your license is still valid and you have not changed your name. Go to the ServiceOntario website, select "Update your address on your driver's license," and log in with your Ontario username and password. If you do not have an account, you will create one using your driver's license number and date of birth.
You will enter your new address, confirm your personal details, and review the information before submitting. There is no fee. ServiceOntario will mail your updated license to your new address within two to three weeks. Your current license remains valid until the new one arrives, so you can use it for identification in the meantime.
Updating your address in person at a ServiceOntario office
Visit a ServiceOntario office if your license is expired, you have changed your name, or you prefer to handle it face-to-face. Bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax assessment — the document must show your name and new address and be dated within the last three months.
You can book an appointment online through the ServiceOntario website or walk in during service hours. Walk-in wait times vary by location and time of day; booking ahead usually means a shorter wait. The staff member will update your address on the spot, and your new license will be mailed to you within two to three weeks. There is no fee for an address change.
Updating your address by mail
If you cannot visit an office or use the online system, you can mail in the Address Change Form (DL 82). read the form from the ServiceOntario website or pick one up at any ServiceOntario office. Fill in your current driver's license number, your new address, and sign the form. Include a copy of proof of your new address — the same documents accepted in person work by mail (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or property tax assessment, dated within three months).
Mail the completed form and proof of address to the address shown on the form. Processing takes four to six weeks from the date ServiceOntario receives it, so mail it early. Your updated license will be sent to your new address once approved. Keep a copy of what you mail in case there are questions.
What counts as proof of your new address
ServiceOntario accepts documents that show your name and new address and are dated within the last three months. A utility bill (hydro, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. A lease agreement or rental agreement works if it shows your name and the address. A mortgage statement, property tax assessment, or condo property tax bill also work. Some people use a letter from their employer or a bank statement, though these are less commonly accepted — call ahead to confirm.
The document must be an original or a certified copy, not a screenshot or photo. If your name on the document does not match your license exactly (for example, a middle initial is missing), bring a second document that shows both versions of your name, or bring proof that you have legally changed your name.
Timeline: how long each method takes
| Method | Processing time | When you get your updated license |
|---|---|---|
| Online update | when ready approval | 2 to 3 weeks by mail |
| In-person at ServiceOntario office | Same day | 2 to 3 weeks by mail |
| By mail (DL 82 form) | 4 to 6 weeks from receipt | 2 to 3 weeks after approval |
The online and in-person methods are fastest because ServiceOntario approves your change when ready. By mail takes longer because ServiceOntario must receive the form, process it, and then mail your new license. If you are moving soon and need your updated license quickly, online or in-person is the better choice.
What to do if your license is expired or you have changed your name
If your license has expired, you cannot use the online address update. You must visit a ServiceOntario office or mail in the Address Change Form (DL 82). The same applies if you have legally changed your name — the online system will not let you proceed, and you need to update both your name and address in person or by mail.
If you have both an expired license and a name change, bring proof of the name change (a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your proof of new address when you visit the office. If you are mailing in the form, include certified copies of both documents. ServiceOntario will process the name change and address change together, and your new license will reflect both updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to update my address if I move within Ontario?
Yes. You must report your new address within six days of moving, even if you move to another city in Ontario. The six-day rule applies to all moves within the province. If you move out of Ontario entirely, you will need to get a driver's license from your new province instead.
Can I use my old license with the wrong address on it?
Your old license is still valid for driving until your new one arrives. However, if you need proof of your current address for something like opening a bank account or renting an apartment, the outdated address may cause problems. It is better to update it quickly so you have a current document.
What if I move and do not have a utility bill or lease yet?
If you have just moved and do not have a dated document in your name yet, ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your new address and move-in date. Some ServiceOntario offices will accept this temporarily while you wait for a utility bill or lease to arrive in your name.
Can someone else update my address for me?
No. You must update your address yourself, either online, in person, or by mailing in the signed form. A family member or friend cannot do it on your behalf. If you are unable to visit an office, the online or mail-in options are your best choices.
Is there a fee to update my address?
No. Updating your address on your driver's license is free, whether you do it online, in person, or by mail. ServiceOntario does not charge for address changes.