You can change your Georgia address online, by mail, or in person at a DDS office

Georgia allows you to update your driver's license address without renewing your license itself. The method you choose depends on how soon you need the change recorded and whether you want a replacement card in the mail. Online changes take effect when ready in the system but do not produce a new physical card. In-person and mail requests both result in a replacement card with your new address, though in-person is faster.

You do not need an appointment for address changes at most DDS locations, but wait times vary by office and time of day. If you move out of state or your license expires within the next 60 days, you will need to renew rather than straightforward change your address — those are handled as separate transactions.

Key Takeaways

  • Georgia's online address change system (at dds.georgia.gov) updates your record when ready but does not mail you a new card.
  • An in-person address change at a DDS office produces a replacement card with your new address and takes about 15 minutes.
  • Mail-in address changes require a completed form, proof of residency, and your current license; processing takes two to three weeks.
  • You must bring an original or certified proof of residency document — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works.
  • If your license expires within 60 days of your move, you must renew instead of changing your address only.

Online address change: fastest for your record, no new card

The Georgia DDS online system lets you change your address without visiting an office or mailing anything. Go to dds.georgia.gov, select "Change Address Online," and log in with your driver's license number and date of birth. You will enter your new address and confirm it. The change takes effect in the Georgia system when ready and is valid for identification purposes.

The trade-off is that you do not receive a replacement card in the mail. Your current card still shows your old address, which can cause problems if you are stopped by police, need to board a plane, or present your license as proof of residency for other purposes. Many people use the online change as a temporary step while waiting for a replacement card ordered separately, or if they are moving again soon and do not want to pay for a new card twice.

In-person address change: fastest for a replacement card

Visiting a DDS office is the quickest way to get a replacement card with your new address. Bring your current Georgia driver's license, one original proof of residency dated within the last 60 days, and complete the DL 44 form (Address Change Request). You can read the form from dds.georgia.gov or fill it out at the office. No appointment is required at most locations.

Processing takes about 15 minutes at the counter. You will pay a $20 replacement fee. Your new card is mailed to the address you provide and arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, your old card remains valid for driving and identification, though it shows your former address. If you need the card faster, ask the DDS staff whether your location offers expedited mailing — not all offices do, and fees vary.

Mail-in address change: no office visit required

You can request a replacement card by mail without visiting a DDS office. Complete the DL 44 form (available at dds.georgia.gov), include one original proof of residency dated within the last 60 days, and mail both along with your current driver's license to the Georgia DDS address listed on the form. Include a check or money order for $20 made payable to "Georgia DDS."

Processing takes two to three weeks from the date DDS receives your envelope. Your new card is mailed to your new address. Keep a copy of everything you send, and consider using certified mail so you have proof of delivery. If your license does not arrive within four weeks, contact the DDS customer service line at 678-413-8400 to check the status. Do not send cash through the mail.

What counts as proof of residency in Georgia

Georgia requires one document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, or a bank or credit card statement. The document must be an original or certified copy — photocopies are not accepted.

If you have just moved and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your residency and dated within 60 days. Some DDS offices accept this in place of a standard document, though policies vary by location. Call ahead to confirm what your local office will take if you are uncertain.

Address changes when your license is expiring soon

If your Georgia driver's license expires within 60 days of your address change, you cannot use the address-change process. Instead, you must renew your license, which includes updating your address as part of the renewal. This costs $32 for a standard five-year renewal (or $64 for an eight-year license) rather than the $20 replacement fee for an address change alone.

You can renew online at dds.georgia.gov if your license is not expired and you meet other may be able to access requirements, or you can renew in person or by mail using the same documents and processes as an address change. Check your license expiration date before you move; if you are within 60 days, plan to renew instead.

Moving out of state: your Georgia license and address

If you are moving to another state, you do not need to notify Georgia DDS. Your Georgia license remains valid for identification and driving in other states until it expires. However, most states require you to obtain a license in your new state within 30 to 60 days of establishing residency there. Check your new state's DMV website for their timeline and requirements.

You can keep your Georgia license as a second form of ID, but you cannot legally drive using it as your primary license in your new state. If you want to update your Georgia address before you leave, you can do so using any of the methods above, though there is no requirement to do so.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my address if I am moving temporarily?

No. Your address on your license should reflect where you legally reside. If you are moving for a few months for work or school but plan to return, you do not need to change it. If you are establishing a new permanent residence, you should update your address within 30 days of moving.

What if I lost my current driver's license?

You cannot use the address-change process if you do not have your license. Instead, you must request a replacement license, which includes providing your new address. Bring proof of residency and your Social Security number to a DDS office, or mail a completed DL 44 form with proof of residency and a $20 fee.

Can I change my address online and then order a replacement card separately?

Yes. You can use the online address change to update your record when ready, then visit a DDS office or mail in a DL 44 form to request a replacement card with your new address. You will pay the $20 replacement fee for the card, but your address is already updated in the system.

How long does a replacement card take if I change my address in person?

The in-person transaction takes about 15 minutes at the DDS office. Your new card is mailed to your new address and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Some offices offer expedited mailing for an additional fee, though not all locations participate.

What happens if I move and do not update my address?

Your license remains valid for driving and identification, but it shows your old address. This can cause problems if you are stopped by police, need to board a plane, or use your license as proof of residency for banking, housing, or other purposes. Georgia law does not require you to update your address, but doing so prevents complications.