Change your Tennessee address online, by mail, or in person at a Driver Services office
Tennessee lets you update your driver's license address without getting a new license photo or taking a test. The fastest way is online through the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website — you can do it in minutes from home. If you prefer to go in person or mail your request, those options work too, though they take longer.
You do not need to wait for your current license to expire. Update your address as soon as you move, because your license is your proof of residency for many things: opening a bank account, registering to vote, getting utilities set up, or dealing with law enforcement.
Key Takeaways
- The online method through the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website is the fastest option and takes only a few minutes.
- You will need your current driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid email address to change your address online.
- If you go in person to a Driver Services office, bring your current license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
- By mail, send a completed DL 43 form with a copy of your license and address proof to the address listed on the form.
- Your updated license will show your new address, but your license number and expiration date stay the same.
Update your address online through the Tennessee website
Go to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website and look for the driver's license address change option. You will need your current driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a valid email address. The system will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your driving record and personal history.
Once you complete the online form and pay the fee (which varies), you will receive a confirmation email. Your address change takes effect when ready in the system, though the physical license in your wallet still shows the old address. You can use the confirmation email as proof of your new address if you need it right away for a bank, landlord, or voter registration.
A new license card with your updated address will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to do anything else — just wait for it to arrive.
Change your address in person at a Driver Services office
Find your nearest Driver Services office on the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website. Bring your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and new address on it.
Walk in during office hours — most offices operate Monday through Friday, though some have Saturday hours. Tell the clerk you want to change your address. They will take your current license, update your information in the system, and give you a receipt. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.
Going in person takes about 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is. This method works well if you do not have internet access at home or prefer to handle it face-to-face.
Mail in a change of address form
Request the DL 43 form (Address Change form) from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, or read it from their website. Fill it out completely with your name, current license number, new address, and date of birth.
Make a copy of the front and back of your current driver's license. Include one document showing your new address — the same types of proof accepted in person work by mail (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail). Put everything in an envelope and mail it to the address listed on the DL 43 form.
Processing by mail takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date they receive your envelope, plus mailing time both ways. This is the slowest method, but it works if you cannot get to an office or do not have internet access.
What happens after you submit your change
Your address change is recorded in the Tennessee system right away, whether you go online, in person, or by mail. Law enforcement and other government agencies can see your new address when ready. However, your physical license card still shows your old address until the new one arrives.
If you need proof of your new address before the new card arrives, print your online confirmation email or ask for a receipt at the Driver Services office. Banks, landlords, and voter registration offices will usually accept these as temporary proof.
Your new license will have the same number and expiration date as your old one — only the address changes. You do not need to renew your license early or pay a renewal fee.
Address proof documents that Tennessee accepts
When you change your address in person or by mail, you must show one document that proves you live at your new location. Tennessee accepts several types of documents, all of which must show your name and your new address clearly.
| Document Type | What Works |
|---|---|
| Utility bills | Electric, gas, water, internet, or phone bill dated within the last 60 days |
| Lease or rental agreement | Signed lease showing your name and new address |
| Mortgage or property tax statement | Current statement with your name and address |
| Bank or credit card statement | Statement dated within the last 60 days |
| Government mail | Tax return, voter registration card, or official letter with your name and address |
If your name does not match exactly on your proof document — for example, if you recently married or changed your name — bring a second document that shows both your old and new name, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address if I move?
Tennessee law requires you to notify the Department of Safety within a reasonable time after moving. While there is no exact important date, updating your address quickly keeps your license valid as proof of residency and prevents problems if you are stopped by police.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
Yes. A suspended or revoked license can still be updated for address changes. However, you cannot drive legally until your suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the Tennessee Department of Safety to find out what you need to do to restore your driving privileges.
What if I move out of Tennessee?
If you move to another state, you will need to get a driver's license from that state. Most states require you to get a new license within 30 to 60 days of moving there. You can keep your Tennessee license as a form of ID, but it will not be valid for driving.
How much does it cost to change my address?
The fee varies depending on which method you use. Online changes typically cost less than in-person or mail changes. Check the Tennessee Department of Safety website or call your local Driver Services office for the current fee.
Can someone else change my address for me?
No. You must make the change yourself online, in person, or by submitting the form yourself by mail. The system requires your personal information and identity verification, which only you can provide.