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 quickest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. Once you submit the change online, your license remains valid at your old address until it expires; Georgia does not issue a new card with the updated address unless you pay for a replacement.

If you prefer not to go online, you can mail a completed form to DDS or visit a local office in person. Both methods take longer — typically one to two weeks by mail, same-day processing at an office — but work just as well. The choice depends on how soon you need the change recorded and whether you want a physical card showing your new address.

Key Takeaways

  • Georgia's online address change through the DDS website is free and takes about 10 minutes, with no new card issued unless you pay for a replacement.
  • Your current license stays valid at your old address after you change it online; the address update is recorded in the system but not printed on the card.
  • Mailing a form to DDS takes one to two weeks; visiting a DDS office in person is processed the same day.
  • You need your license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address to change it online.
  • If you want a new card printed with your updated address, you must request a replacement license and pay the replacement fee.

Changing your address online through the DDS website

Visit the Georgia Department of Driver Services website and look for the address change option in the online services section. You will be asked to enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, your date of birth, and your new address. The system will verify your information against DDS records. If everything matches, your address change is processed when ready.

After you submit the change online, you will receive a confirmation on screen. Write down or print the confirmation number — you may need it if you have questions later. Your address is now updated in the Georgia DDS system, which means insurance companies, law enforcement, and government agencies can see your new address. However, the physical card in your wallet still shows your old address. This is normal and legal in Georgia; your license remains valid.

Mailing a form to change your address

If you prefer to mail your address change, read the Form DL 43 from the Georgia DDS website or request it by phone. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Do not send your actual license card — mail only the completed form.

Mail the form to the address listed on the DDS website (this varies by region). Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you want DDS to send you a confirmation. Processing takes one to two weeks. Like the online method, mailing does not issue a new card; your license remains valid with the old address printed on it.

Changing your address in person at a DDS office

Find your nearest DDS office using the office locator on the Georgia DDS website. Bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your name and new address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

Walk in during office hours or check whether your location takes appointments. Processing is usually same-day. Like the other methods, you will not receive a new card unless you request and pay for a replacement license. Your address is updated in the system, but your physical license still shows the old address.

Getting a replacement card with your new address

If you want a new license card printed with your updated address, you must request a replacement license after changing your address. This is optional — your license is valid either way. A replacement license costs a fee (the amount varies and should be confirmed with DDS before you visit). You can request a replacement at a DDS office in person or sometimes online, depending on your license type.

Bring your current license and proof of your new address if you are visiting in person. The new card will be mailed to you within one to two weeks. Until it arrives, your old license remains valid.

What counts as proof of your new address

Georgia DDS accepts several documents as proof of your new address when you change it in person. The document must show your name and new address and be dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or government mail such as a tax return or voter registration card.

A bank statement or credit card statement with your name and address also works. If you have just moved and do not yet have a dated document in your name, ask DDS what alternatives they accept — some offices will work with you on a case-by-case basis. When you change your address online, you do not need to provide proof; the system verifies your identity using your license number and Social Security number.

Timeline and what to expect after you change your address

If you change your address online, the update is when ready. Your address is recorded in the Georgia DDS system right away, and you will see a confirmation on screen. If you mail a form, expect one to two weeks. If you visit an office in person, the change is processed same-day.

After your address is changed, you may receive mail from DDS, insurance companies, or government agencies at your new address. Your old license card remains valid and legal to use. If you are stopped by law enforcement, they will see your updated address in their system even though your card shows the old one. There is no penalty for having an outdated address on your physical card as long as the address is updated in the DDS system.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Georgia law requires you to notify DDS of a change of address within a reasonable time after you move. There is no specific important date, but updating your address promptly is important for receiving license renewal notices and other official mail. You will not face a penalty for a delayed update, but you should change it as soon as you can.

Can I change my address online if my license is expired?

No, you must have a valid or recently expired license to change your address online. If your license expired more than a few months ago, you will need to renew it instead. Visit a DDS office or check the website to see whether you can renew online or must renew in person.

What if I move out of state — do I need to change my Georgia address first?

No, you do not need to update your Georgia address before moving out of state. Once you move, you should get a driver's license in your new state. You can let your Georgia license expire or request a cancellation, but updating the address is not required.

Will changing my address affect my insurance or registration?

Your insurance company and vehicle registration are separate from your driver's license. Notify your insurance company and the Georgia Department of Revenue (for vehicle registration) of your move separately. Changing your address with DDS does not automatically update these records.

How do I know if my address change went through?

If you changed your address online, you will see a confirmation message and number on screen when ready. If you mailed a form or visited an office, you can call DDS or check the website to confirm the change was processed. Keep any confirmation number or receipt you receive.