The fastest way to change your address in Georgia

You can change your address on your Georgia driver's license online through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website, by mail, or in person at a DDS office. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and you do not need to visit an office or mail anything. You will receive a new card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If you choose to go in person, bring your current license, proof of your new address, and a completed form. The office will issue you a temporary license on the spot and mail the permanent card later. Mail-in changes take longer — typically 2 to 3 weeks — and require you to send your current license to DDS.

Your address change takes effect when ready in the Georgia system, even though your physical card arrives later. You do not need to update your vehicle registration at the same time, though the Georgia Department of Revenue recommends doing so within 30 days of moving.

Key Takeaways

  • Georgia's online address change tool is the fastest option and requires only your license number, date of birth, and new address.
  • In-person changes at a DDS office take one visit and you walk out with a temporary license valid until your new card arrives.
  • You will need proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
  • Your address change is active in Georgia's system right away, even though your new physical card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail.

Changing your address online through the DDS website

Visit the Georgia Department of Driver Services website and look for the "Change of Address" option in the online services section. You will need your current driver's license number, your date of birth, and your new Georgia address. The system will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your driving record.

Once you complete the online form, you will receive a confirmation number. Save this number — you may need it if you have questions about your request. There is no fee for an online address change. Your new license card will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days.

The online option works only if you are changing to another Georgia address. If you are moving out of state, you will need to visit a DDS office in person or mail in your request.

Changing your address in person at a DDS office

Find your nearest DDS office on the Georgia Department of Driver Services website. Bring your current driver's license, your new address proof (see below for acceptable documents), and a completed DL 43 form if you have one — though the office can provide this form. There is no fee for an address change.

The office will issue you a temporary license printed on the spot, valid for 30 days. This temporary license has the same legal weight as your permanent card. Your new permanent license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need an appointment at most Georgia DDS offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day.

In-person changes are useful if you need a valid license with your new address when ready, or if you are uncomfortable using the online system.

Changing your address by mail

Complete a DL 43 form (available on the DDS website) and mail it to the Georgia Department of Driver Services along with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Include a copy of your proof of address — do not mail the original. Send everything to the address listed on the DDS website for address changes.

Mail-in changes typically take 2 to 3 weeks from the date DDS receives your envelope. Because you are mailing your current license, you will not have a valid Georgia license during this time. This method is slower than online or in-person options and is best used only if you cannot visit an office or access the online system.

What counts as proof of your new address

Georgia accepts several documents as proof of address. Your document must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a bank or credit card statement, or a government-issued document with your new address.

If you do not have any of these documents yet, a signed letter from your landlord or property manager stating your name, new address, and move-in date can work. Bring the original document or a certified copy — a photocopy alone may not be accepted at an office, though the online system does not require you to upload proof.

Timeline and what to expect after you change your address

Your address change is recorded in Georgia's system when ready, whether you change it online, in person, or by mail. Law enforcement and other government agencies can see your new address right away. However, your physical license card still shows your old address until the new card arrives.

New cards are mailed within 7 to 10 business days. If you chose the in-person option, you have a temporary license to use in the meantime. If you chose online or mail, you may want to carry a piece of mail showing your new address as backup proof until your new card arrives, though your old license remains valid.

If your new card does not arrive within 14 days, contact the Georgia Department of Driver Services. Keep your confirmation number from your online request or your receipt from the office visit.

Changing your address when you move out of state

If you are moving out of Georgia, you cannot change your address through the online system. You must visit a DDS office in person and inform them that you are relocating. The office staff can help you understand your options: you can keep your Georgia license and update the address to your new state, or you can explore for a license in your new state.

Most people moving out of state choose to get a license in their new state rather than maintain a Georgia license. Your new state's DMV will have its own process and requirements. If you decide to keep your Georgia license, the DDS office can mail it to your out-of-state address.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my vehicle registration when I change my license address?

No, your vehicle registration and driver's license are separate. However, Georgia recommends updating your vehicle registration within 30 days of moving. You can change your vehicle registration address through the Georgia Department of Revenue website or at a local tag office.

What if I moved but do not have a utility bill or lease yet?

A signed letter from your landlord or property manager stating your name, new address, and move-in date is acceptable. If you own your home and do not have a mortgage statement or property tax bill yet, contact the DDS office in your area — they may accept other documents on a case-by-case basis.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

Yes, you can change your address on an expired license. However, if your license expired more than a few years ago, you may need to renew it at the same time. Contact a DDS office or check the website to confirm the renewal requirements for your situation.

How long is the temporary license valid?

A temporary license issued in person at a DDS office is valid for 30 days. Your permanent card should arrive within 7 to 10 business days, so the temporary license covers the wait. If your permanent card does not arrive within 30 days, contact DDS — you may need to visit an office again.

What if I made a mistake on my address change request?

If you submitted an online request, contact the Georgia Department of Driver Services with your confirmation number as soon as possible. If you already mailed in a form or visited an office, call DDS to explain the error. Depending on how far along your request is, they may be able to correct it before your new card is printed.