Change your Minnesota address online, by mail, or in person at a Driver and Vehicle Services office
Minnesota lets you change your driver's license address without getting a new license. You can do it online through the state's website, by mail, or by visiting a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office in person. The online method is fastest — it takes minutes and costs nothing. Mail and in-person visits also work but take longer.
You'll need your current license number and the address you want on file. If you're moving within Minnesota, the process is straightforward. If you're moving out of state, you'll eventually need a new license from your new state, but Minnesota lets you update your address first if you're still a resident.
Key Takeaways
- Minnesota's online address change tool is free and takes about five minutes if you have your license number and new address ready.
- You can change your address by mail by sending a signed form to the DVS, though it takes one to two weeks to process.
- In-person changes at any DVS office are processed when ready, but you'll need to bring your current license and proof of your new address.
- Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or other official mail showing your name and new address.
- Your license itself does not change — only the address on file with the state updates.
Change your address online through the Minnesota Secretary of State website
The fastest way is to use the Minnesota Secretary of State's online address change tool. Go to the DVS website, select "Change Address," and enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the new address. The system verifies your identity using information from your license record. If verification succeeds, your address updates when ready.
This method is free and works 24/7. You don't need to upload documents or wait for mail. Your updated address appears in the state's system right away, though it may take a few days to show on your physical license if you request a replacement.
The online tool works only if your identity verification passes. If it fails, you'll need to use the mail or in-person method instead.
Mail a signed address change form to the DVS
You can print the Address Change Form from the Minnesota Secretary of State website, sign it, and mail it to the DVS office listed on the form. Include your current license number and your new address. You do not need to include proof of address by mail — the DVS uses your signature and license number to verify your identity.
Processing takes one to two weeks after the DVS receives your form. Mail it to the address shown on the form, not to a local office. There is no fee for this method.
Keep a copy of the form for your records. If you want confirmation that your change was processed, you can call the DVS after two weeks to verify.
Update your address in person at a DVS office
Walk into any Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services office with your current license and proof of your new address. Proof can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax statement, or other official mail showing your name and new address. The office staff will update your address on the spot, and you'll leave with confirmation.
This method is when ready and requires no waiting. There is no fee. You do not need an appointment at most offices, though some busy locations may ask you to check wait times online first.
Bring the original or a copy of your proof document. A photo of the document on your phone usually works if the office can read it clearly.
What happens to your physical license when you change your address
Your current license card does not automatically update. The address on the card stays the same until you renew your license or request a replacement. However, the address in the state's system changes when ready (online method) or within one to two weeks (mail method), so law enforcement and government agencies see your new address.
If you want your physical card to show the new address right away, you can request a replacement license. Minnesota charges a fee for replacements — check the DVS website for the current amount. Most people wait until their next renewal to get a card with the new address.
Proof of address documents the DVS accepts
The DVS accepts documents that show your name and new address and were issued within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include:
- Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet)
- Lease agreement or rental agreement
- Mortgage statement or property tax bill
- Bank or credit card statement
- Insurance policy or insurance bill
- Official government mail (tax notice, voter registration card)
- Apartment or condo association documents
Documents older than 60 days may not be accepted. If you just moved and don't have a recent document yet, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on official letterhead confirming your new address, or wait until you receive an official bill at the new address.
Timeline and what to expect at each step
| Method | Time to Complete | When Address Updates | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | 5 minutes | when ready | Free |
| 10 minutes to prepare and mail | 1–2 weeks after DVS receives it | Free | |
| In-person at DVS office | 15–30 minutes (depends on wait time) | when ready | Free |
The online method is fastest if your identity verification passes. If it doesn't, you'll be redirected to other options. The mail method is reliable but slower. In-person visits are when ready but require you to travel to an office during business hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a new license when I move to a different Minnesota city?
No. You only need to change your address on file. Your license remains valid. You do not need a new license unless your current one is expiring soon or you want the physical card to show the new address.
What if the online address change tool says my identity verification failed?
Try the mail or in-person method instead. Identity verification failures sometimes happen if your information in the system doesn't match exactly what you entered. In-person visits let staff verify your identity using your physical license, which usually resolves the issue.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
Yes. An expired license can still be used to change your address. However, if your license expired more than a year ago, you'll need to renew it before you can use it for most purposes. Contact the DVS to confirm whether your specific situation allows an address change.
How long does it take to receive a replacement license with my new address?
If you request a replacement, it typically arrives by mail within 5–7 business days. The fee varies — check the Minnesota Secretary of State website for the current replacement license cost.
Do I need to change my address if I'm moving out of Minnesota?
You'll eventually need a license from your new state. Some people update their Minnesota address first if they're still considered Minnesota residents, but once you establish residency in your new state, you should get a new license there. Check your new state's requirements for when you must switch.