The documents you'll need for a change of address
To change the address on your driver's license, you need two things: proof of your new address and your current license. Most states do not require you to visit the DMV in person for an address change — you can often do it by mail, online, or at a kiosk. The exact documents and process depend on which state issued your license.
Proof of address means a document that shows your name and your new street address. Acceptable documents usually include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail. The document typically needs to be recent — usually within the last 30 to 90 days, though this varies by state. Your current driver's license or ID card is the second piece you'll need to show who you are.
Some states accept a signed affidavit (a sworn statement) in place of a physical address document if you cannot obtain one. A few states also allow you to bring a witness who can verify your address. Check your state's DMV website before you gather documents, because the list of acceptable proofs changes and varies significantly.
Key Takeaways
- You need proof of your new address (such as a utility bill or lease) and your current driver's license to change your address.
- Most states let you change your address by mail, online, or at a kiosk without visiting the DMV in person.
- Address documents must usually be recent — typically from the last 30 to 90 days — and show both your name and new street address.
- Your state's DMV website lists which documents they accept, because the rules differ by state and sometimes change.
How to change your address by mail
If your state allows mail-in address changes, you will send your current license and proof of address to the address listed on the DMV's website. Some states provide a mail-in form you can read and include with your documents; others ask you to straightforward include a note with your new address and current license number. Check your state's DMV site for the exact mailing address and whether a form is required.
Mail-in changes usually take two to four weeks to process. Your new license will be mailed to your new address. During this time, your old license remains valid. If you need to drive before the new license arrives, your old license with the outdated address is still acceptable for most purposes, though a police officer may ask why your address does not match where you are.
Keep a copy of everything you mail, including the proof of address and a photo of your current license. If your documents are lost in the mail, you will have a record of what you sent.
Changing your address online or at a kiosk
Many states now offer online address changes through their DMV website. You will log in with your license number and date of birth, upload a photo of your proof of address, and pay a small fee — usually between $5 and $15, though some states charge nothing. The process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your new license will be mailed to your new address within one to three weeks.
Some DMV locations also have self-service kiosks where you can change your address in person without waiting in line. You insert your current license, upload a photo of your proof of address, and pay the fee. The kiosk prints a receipt, and your new license is mailed to you. This is often the fastest option if a kiosk is available near you.
Not all states offer online or kiosk services yet. If your state does not, mail-in or in-person change at the DMV are your options.
Changing your address in person at the DMV
If you prefer to change your address in person, bring your current license and proof of your new address to your local DMV office. You will fill out a form (usually the same form used for license renewal) and pay a small fee. The DMV will take a new photo and issue you a new license on the spot or mail it to you, depending on your state's process.
In-person changes are useful if you want to walk out with your new license the same day, though not all states print licenses on-site. Call your local DMV before you go to confirm their process and whether you need an appointment. Many DMV offices now require appointments, and walk-ins may face long waits.
What happens if you move before your license arrives
If you change your address and then move again before your new license arrives, contact your state's DMV when ready. You can usually update your address again by mail, online, or in person. Some states allow you to request that your license be held at a specific DMV office for you to pick up instead of being mailed.
Your old license remains valid for driving even if the address is wrong, but having a current address on your license makes interactions with police and other officials smoother. If you are moving frequently, ask your DMV whether you can pick up your new license in person rather than waiting for mail delivery.
Address changes and your vehicle registration
Changing your driver's license address does not automatically update your vehicle registration. You must contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent agency separately to update your vehicle registration address. Some states allow you to do this online or by mail at the same time you change your license address; others require a separate transaction.
Check your state's DMV website for vehicle registration address change procedures. You will typically need your vehicle registration card and proof of your new address. Some states charge a small fee for this change; others do not.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change my address if I move out of state?
Yes. Once you move to a new state, you should get a driver's license from that state within a certain period — usually 30 to 60 days. You cannot straightforward change the address on your old license. You will need to take the written and road tests required by your new state, though some states waive the road test if your old license is current.
What if I don't have a utility bill or lease to prove my address?
Many states accept bank statements, mortgage statements, government mail, or insurance documents as proof of address. Some allow a signed affidavit stating you live at the address. A few states accept a letter from your employer or a witness who can verify your residence. Check your state's DMV website for the full list of acceptable documents.
Can I change my address online if I have a REAL ID license?
Most states allow online address changes for REAL ID licenses, but the process is the same as for a standard license. You upload proof of address and pay a fee. Your new REAL ID license will be mailed to you. If your state does not offer online changes, you can change your address by mail or in person.
How much does it cost to change my address?
Most states charge between $5 and $15 for an address change, though some charge nothing. A few states charge the same fee as a license renewal. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee, as it varies.
Will I get a new photo on my license if I change my address?
If you change your address by mail or online, you usually keep your old photo. If you change your address in person at the DMV, the DMV may take a new photo, depending on your state's policy. Ask your DMV whether a new photo will be taken before you go in person.