How to change your address on your driver's license

You can change your address on your driver's license without renewing the entire license. Most states let you update your address in person at a DMV office, online through their website, or by mail. The method available to you depends on your state and whether your license is still valid. Some states charge a small fee for address changes; others do not.

The fastest route is usually your state's DMV website. Many states now offer online address changes that take minutes and cost nothing. If your state does not offer this, you will need to visit a DMV office in person or mail in a form with proof of your new address. The whole process typically takes one to two weeks if you mail it, or same-day if you go in person.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states allow you to change your address online through the DMV website without visiting an office or paying a fee.
  • If you change your address in person at the DMV, bring your current license and a document showing your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • By mail, you will need to send your current license, a signed form, and proof of address to your state DMV; processing takes one to three weeks.
  • Some states issue a new license with your updated address; others print a sticker or notation on your existing card.
  • Changing your address does not reset your license expiration date — your license remains valid until its original renewal date.

Changing your address online

Most states now offer online address changes through their DMV portal. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The process usually takes five to ten minutes and costs nothing.

To find your state's online option, go to your state DMV website and look for "change address" or "update information." Not every state offers this yet — if yours does not, you will see a message directing you to mail in a form or visit an office. Some states limit online changes to people whose licenses are not expiring within the next few months, so check the restrictions before you start.

After you submit your information online, your state will mail you either a new license with your updated address or a sticker to place on your current license. This usually arrives within one to two weeks. Until it arrives, your old address on your license is still valid for identification purposes.

Changing your address in person at the DMV

If you prefer to update your address when ready or your state does not offer online changes, you can visit a DMV office. Bring your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and address.

The document must be recent — most states accept documents dated within the last 60 days, though this varies. If you have moved very recently and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, ask the DMV staff what they will accept; some offices take a signed letter from a landlord or a moving company receipt.

Processing at the DMV office is usually when ready. You will either receive a new license on the spot or a temporary paper license while your new card is mailed to you. Some states charge a small fee for in-person address changes; others do not. Call your local DMV office before you go to confirm the fee and current wait times.

Changing your address by mail

You can also update your address by mailing a form and proof of address to your state DMV. First, read the address change form from your state DMV website — it is usually called "Change of Address" or "Update Driver Information." Fill it out completely and sign it.

Include one document showing your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days) and mail everything to the address listed on the form. Do not send your original license unless the form specifically asks for it. Some states request a photocopy of your license instead.

Processing by mail takes one to three weeks depending on your state's DMV workload. You will receive your updated license or a sticker in the mail. If you need to prove your new address before the new license arrives, print a copy of your mailed form or ask the DMV for a temporary proof-of-address letter.

What happens to your license expiration date

Changing your address does not change when your license expires. Your expiration date stays the same whether you update your address online, in person, or by mail. If your license is set to expire in six months, it will still expire in six months after you change your address.

Some people use an address change as a chance to renew their license early if it is expiring soon. You can do this at the same DMV visit or in the same mailing, but it usually costs more and takes longer. If your license is expiring within the next few months anyway, you might save time and money by waiting and renewing the full license instead of just changing the address.

Address changes and vehicle registration

Changing your driver's license address does not automatically update your vehicle registration. You will need to update your vehicle registration separately with your state's DMV or motor vehicle department. The process is similar — you can usually do it online, by mail, or in person.

Some states require you to update your vehicle registration within a certain number of days of moving (often 10 to 30 days). Check your state's rules to avoid a fine. You will need your vehicle registration card and proof of your new address. If you update both your license and registration at the same DMV visit, you can bring one proof-of-address document for both.

What to do if you have moved out of state

If you have moved to a different state, you cannot straightforward change the address on your current license. You will need to get a new driver's license from your new state. Most states require you to get a new license within 30 to 60 days of moving, though the exact timeline varies.

To get a new license in your new state, visit a DMV office and bring your current out-of-state license, proof of residency (utility bill or lease), proof of identity (passport or birth certificate), and proof of your Social Security number. Some states also require a vision test or a new written test. Your new state will issue you a new license with your new address and a new expiration date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address on my license if I move?

Most states do not legally require you to change your address when ready, but many have a important date — usually 10 to 30 days after you move. Failing to update your address within the important date can result in a fine. Even if there is no important date in your state, updating your address keeps your license valid for identification and voting purposes.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

No. You must renew your license before you can change the address. Visit your state DMV website to renew your license first, then update the address. Some states let you renew and change the address in one transaction, either online or in person.

What if I do not have a document showing my new address?

If you have just moved and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, bring what you have — a signed lease agreement, a letter from your landlord, a moving company receipt, or a bank statement. Call your local DMV office before you go to ask what they will accept in your situation.

Will I get a new license card or just a sticker?

This depends on your state. Some states mail you a new license card with your updated address; others print a sticker or notation on your existing card. Your state DMV website will tell you which method they use. Either way, your license remains valid until its original expiration date.

How long does it take to get my updated license in the mail?

If you change your address online or by mail, your updated license or sticker usually arrives within one to two weeks. If you change it in person at the DMV, you may receive it the same day or it will be mailed within a few days. Processing times vary by state and by how busy the DMV is.