Change Your NC Address Online, by Mail, or In Person

North Carolina lets you change your address on your driver's license through three routes: online through the NC Division of Motor Vehicles website, by mail with a form and proof of residence, or in person at any DMV office. The online method is fastest — it takes minutes and costs nothing — but it works only if your address change is within North Carolina. If you are moving out of state or need to update your license for other reasons at the same time, you will need to visit a DMV office or mail in documents.

The address change itself does not require a new photo or a new license card. The DMV will mail you a replacement card with your updated address printed on it, or you can request to keep your current card and receive only a document showing the change. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days by mail and is usually same-day if you go in person.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method through the NC DMV website is free and takes minutes, but only works for address changes within North Carolina.
  • By mail, you need Form DL-43 (Address Change), a proof of residence document dated within 60 days, and a check or money order for $5 if you want a replacement card.
  • In-person visits at any NC DMV office are processed when ready and do not require an appointment in most locations.
  • You must report an address change within 30 days of moving under North Carolina law, though the DMV does not enforce this with penalties for drivers.
  • If you are moving out of state, you cannot use the online method and must visit a DMV office or mail in documents with your out-of-state address.

Change Your Address Online Through the NC DMV Website

Go to ncdmv.org and select "Change Address Online" from the main menu. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and ask you to enter your new North Carolina address.

Once you submit, the DMV will mail you a replacement card with the new address at no cost. The card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to pay a fee, provide documents, or visit an office. This method works only if you are staying in North Carolina; if your new address is outside the state, use the mail or in-person method instead.

Change Your Address by Mail

read or request Form DL-43 (Address Change) from the NC DMV website or pick one up at any DMV office. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. You must include one document that proves your new address and was issued within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and address.

Mail the completed form and proof of residence to the address listed on the form. If you want a replacement card printed with your new address, include a check or money order for $5 made out to "NC Division of Motor Vehicles." If you do not include payment, the DMV will update your record but will not send a new card. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days from the date the DMV receives your envelope.

Keep a copy of everything you mail for your records. The DMV does not return documents, so do not send originals you need to keep — send copies instead.

Change Your Address In Person at a DMV Office

Visit any NC DMV office with your current driver's license and one proof of residence dated within 60 days. Bring the same documents you would mail: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail showing your name and new address. You do not need an appointment at most offices, though some locations now use an online check-in system — check your local office's website before you go.

The DMV will update your address on the spot. If you want a replacement card, pay $5 in cash, check, or card (depending on the office). You will receive your new card when ready or within a few minutes. If you do not want a replacement card, the DMV will give you a receipt showing your address has been changed, and your record will be updated in the system.

Visit ncdmv.org/locations to find the office nearest you and check its hours. Some offices have reduced hours or are closed on certain days, so confirm before you drive there.

What Counts as Proof of Residence

Your proof of residence must show your name, your new address, and must have been issued or dated within 60 days of when you submit it. The following documents are accepted:

  • Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone)
  • Lease agreement or rental agreement
  • Mortgage statement or property tax bill
  • Bank or credit card statement
  • Government mail (tax return, voter registration, court document)
  • Insurance policy or bill
  • Pay stub with your address

The document must have your full name as it appears on your license. If your name has changed, you will need to update that separately before or at the same time as your address change. A piece of mail addressed to "Resident" or a business address will not work.

Address Change Fees and Timeline

Changing your address itself costs nothing. A replacement card with your new address printed on it costs $5. If you do not want a replacement card, there is no fee — the DMV will update your record for free, and you can continue using your current card.

Online changes are processed in 7 to 10 business days. Mail takes 7 to 10 business days from receipt. In-person changes are processed when ready. If you are moving soon and need your new address on your license quickly, visiting a DMV office is the fastest option.

What Happens If You Move Out of State

If you are moving to another state, you cannot use the online address change method. You must either visit a DMV office in person or mail in your documents with your out-of-state address. The DMV will update your record and mail you a replacement card to your new address, but this takes 7 to 10 business days.

You are not required to get a new driver's license when you move out of state — your North Carolina license remains valid in all states. However, most states require you to get a local license within 30 to 60 days of establishing residency. Check the DMV website for the state you are moving to for their requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address within 30 days of moving?

North Carolina law requires you to report an address change within 30 days, but the DMV does not issue fines or penalties to drivers who do not comply. However, keeping your address current is important for mail from the DMV, voter registration, and vehicle registration renewal notices.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

Yes. An expired license can still be used to update your address. If your license is expired and you want to renew it at the same time, you will need to visit a DMV office or mail in a renewal process along with your address change form.

What if my proof of residence is older than 60 days?

The DMV will not accept it. You will need a document dated within 60 days of your submission. If you do not have one, ask your utility company, bank, or landlord for a recent statement. Some offices may accept a letter from your landlord on official letterhead if you are in a new rental.

Will I get a new license number when I change my address?

No. Your license number stays the same. Only your address is updated on the card and in the DMV system.

Can I change my address online if I am moving to a different state?

No. The online method works only for address changes within North Carolina. If you are moving out of state, mail in Form DL-43 with your out-of-state address and proof of residence, or visit a DMV office in person.