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 takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You'll need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid email address. The change shows up in the system when ready, though your physical license still shows the old address until it expires and you renew it.

If you need the address changed on your physical card right away — for example, because you're moving out of state or need proof of your new address for housing or employment — you can request a replacement license with the new address. That costs $32 and takes about two weeks to arrive by mail.

Key Takeaways

  • Georgia lets you change your address online for free at the DDS website, and the change takes effect when ready in their system.
  • Your physical license card will still show your old address until you renew it or pay $32 for a replacement card.
  • If you change your address online but later need a replacement card with the new address printed on it, you'll pay the $32 replacement fee at that time.
  • You can also change your address in person at any DDS office or by mail, though online is the quickest option.

Changing your address online

Go to the Georgia DDS website and select the option to update your address. You'll log in or create an account using your driver's license number and Social Security number. Enter your new address, confirm your email, and submit. You should receive a confirmation email within a few minutes. Your address is now updated in Georgia's system, and law enforcement and government agencies will see your new address when they look up your license.

This online change is free and permanent — you don't need to do anything else unless you want a replacement card printed with your new address. Many people use the online method and straightforward keep their old card until it expires naturally, since the address in the system is what matters for most purposes.

Getting a replacement card with your new address

If you need a physical card that shows your new address, you can request a replacement license. This costs $32 and you can do it online at the same DDS website, in person at a DDS office, or by mail. When you request the replacement, Georgia will mail you a new card with your updated address printed on it. The card usually arrives within 10 to 14 business days.

You don't have to get a replacement card right away. Many people change their address online first, then request a replacement card only when they need one for a specific reason — like showing proof of address to a bank or landlord. Your old card remains valid for driving and identification purposes even after you've changed your address online.

Changing your address in person at a DDS office

You can walk into any Georgia DDS office with your current driver's license and request an address change. Bring a document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The staff will update your address on the spot, and you'll receive a receipt showing the change. There is no fee for an address-only change.

Wait times at DDS offices vary by location and time of day. Visiting early in the morning on a weekday typically means shorter lines. If you're also requesting a replacement card with your new address printed on it, you'll pay $32 at that time, and the card will be mailed to you.

Changing your address by mail

You can mail a request to the Georgia DDS with your current license, a completed address change form, and a document showing your new address. The form is available on the DDS website. Mail your packet to the address listed on the form. Processing by mail takes longer — usually three to four weeks — because your request has to be received, processed, and mailed back to you.

If you're requesting a replacement card by mail, include the $32 fee as a check or money order. Without a replacement request, the address change is free. Your old license will be returned to you after the change is processed.

What happens if you don't update your address

Georgia law requires you to notify the DDS of an address change within a certain timeframe, though the state does not actively enforce this for most drivers. However, if you're pulled over and your license shows an address you no longer live at, an officer may question why. More importantly, official mail from the state — such as renewal notices or court documents — will go to the address on file.

If you move and don't update your address, you might miss your license renewal notice and accidentally let your license expire. You also won't receive important notices from the DDS or the court system. Updating your address takes just a few minutes and prevents these problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to get a replacement card if I change my address online?

No. Changing your address online is free and updates the address in Georgia's system when ready. Your old card remains valid for driving. You only need a replacement card if you want the new address printed on the physical card itself, which costs $32.

How long does it take to change my address online?

The online change takes about 10 minutes to complete, and it's active in the system right away. You'll receive a confirmation email within a few minutes. There's no waiting period.

What document do I need to show my new address if I go in person?

Bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement. A piece of mail from a government agency also works.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

You can change your address online or by mail with an expired license. If you go in person to a DDS office, staff may ask you to renew your license at the same time, which costs additional fees. Renewing and changing your address together takes longer but can be done in one visit.

Will my old license still work after I change my address online?

Yes. Your license remains valid for driving and identification. The address shown on the card doesn't affect whether the license works — what matters is that your address is correct in Georgia's system, which it will be after your online change.