What You Need to Do to Update Your Washington License
You can update your Washington driver's license through the Department of Licensing (DOL) in person, by mail, or online depending on what information is changing. Most changes — address, name, or emergency contact — can be done online at dol.wa.gov if your license is not expired and you have not had it suspended or revoked. If your license is expired, damaged, or you need to change your photo, you must visit a DOL office or use the mail-in renewal process.
Washington does not charge a fee for address changes or name changes made within the license validity period. However, if you are renewing your license at the same time, standard renewal fees explore. The process typically takes 5 to 10 business days by mail, or you receive your updated license when ready if you update online.
Key Takeaways
- Address and name changes can be completed online at dol.wa.gov without visiting an office or paying a fee, as long as your license is current and not suspended.
- You must visit a DOL office in person if your license is expired, you need a new photo, or your license has been suspended or revoked.
- Mail-in updates take 5 to 10 business days; online updates are processed when ready but do not produce a physical card until your next renewal.
- Washington requires proof of identity and residency for in-person updates; bring your current license plus a document showing your new address if you are moving.
- If you change your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you must provide the legal document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) in person or by mail.
Updating Your Address Online
The fastest way to update your address is through the DOL online portal. Go to dol.wa.gov, select "Update Your Address," and log in with your driver's license number and date of birth. You will need to enter your new address and confirm it matches your current residence. The system will verify your information against state records.
Once you submit the change online, it takes effect when ready in the DOL system. However, your physical license card will still show your old address until you renew. If you need the new address printed on your card before renewal, you must visit a DOL office and pay a replacement fee (currently $20 for a standard license, though this may vary). Most people wait until their renewal cycle to get the updated card.
Changing Your Name in Person or by Mail
Name changes require legal documentation and cannot be completed online. You must provide the original or certified copy of the document that authorized the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Visit any DOL office with your current license, the legal document, and proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return).
If you prefer to mail in your name change, send your current license, the certified legal document, a completed process for Washington Driver License or Identicard (form DL 44), and a photocopy of your proof of Social Security number to the DOL address listed on their website. Include a check or money order for $20 if you want a replacement card with your new name printed on it; if you do not pay the replacement fee, the name change takes effect but your card will not be updated until renewal. Processing by mail takes 5 to 10 business days.
Renewing an Expired License and Making Changes
If your license has expired, you cannot update it online. You must renew in person at a DOL office or by mail. Washington offers a standard renewal process (valid for 8 years) and an online renewal option for licenses that are not yet expired. If your license is expired and you need to change your address or name at the same time, bring or mail all required documents together.
For in-person renewal with changes, bring your expired license, proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days). If you are changing your name, also bring the legal document. The renewal fee is $80 for an 8-year license. You will receive a temporary license on the spot and your new card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Updating Your License After Moving Out of State
If you move out of Washington, you should obtain a driver's license from your new state rather than continue to update your Washington license. However, if you are moving temporarily or maintaining a Washington residence, you can update your address to an out-of-state location through the online portal or in person. Washington will not prevent you from keeping your license active as long as you renew it before it expires.
If you later move back to Washington, you can use your out-of-state license to update your address back to Washington through the online system, or visit a DOL office with your current out-of-state license and proof of your new Washington address. You do not need to surrender your out-of-state license or pay an additional fee to reactivate your Washington address.
Replacing a Damaged or Lost License
A damaged license (cracked, faded, or unreadable) can be replaced in person at any DOL office or by mail. If you are replacing a damaged license, bring your current license and pay the replacement fee ($20 for a standard license). You will receive a temporary license when ready and your replacement card within 7 to 10 business days.
If your license is lost or stolen, report it to the DOL and request a replacement. You will need to provide proof of identity and pay the replacement fee. If you suspect your license was stolen and used fraudulently, contact the DOL fraud unit and consider placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus. A replacement lost license takes the same 7 to 10 business days by mail.
Documents You Need for In-Person Updates
| Type of Update | Documents Required | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Address change only | Current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days) | No fee |
| Name change | Current license, marriage certificate or divorce decree (certified copy), proof of Social Security number | $20 for replacement card (optional) |
| License renewal with changes | Expired license, proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of residency, legal name-change document (if applicable) | $80 for 8-year license |
| Damaged or lost license replacement | Current license (if available), proof of identity | $20 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update my address online if my license is suspended?
No. The online system will not allow you to make changes if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired. You must visit a DOL office in person. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and any documents related to why your license was suspended (such as proof of payment if it was suspended for unpaid traffic fines).
How long does it take to get my updated license card in the mail?
Standard processing time is 5 to 10 business days from the date the DOL receives your request. If you update your address online, your physical card will not be updated until your next renewal cycle. If you pay the $20 replacement fee in person or by mail, your new card with the updated information will arrive within 7 to 10 business days.
Do I need to update my address if I move within Washington?
Yes. Washington law requires you to update your address within 30 days of moving. You can do this online at dol.wa.gov for free, or in person at any DOL office. Failing to update your address can result in traffic tickets or other notices being sent to your old address.
What if I changed my name but do not have a certified copy of my marriage certificate?
Contact the county clerk's office in the county where you were married to request a certified copy. This typically costs $10 to $25 and takes 1 to 2 weeks. Some counties offer expedited processing. You cannot update your name with the DOL without the certified document.
Can I update my photo without renewing my license?
No. Washington does not offer photo-only updates. If you want a new photo on your license before your renewal date, you must pay the $20 replacement fee and visit a DOL office in person. Your new card with the updated photo will arrive within 7 to 10 business days.