Where to change your driver's license address

You can change your address at the DMV in person, by mail, or online — which option you have depends on your state. Most states now offer online address changes through their DMV website, which is the fastest route if your state supports it. A few states let you change your address by mail by sending a form and your current license. In-person visits at a DMV office always work, but you may wait in line.

Start by visiting your state's DMV website and looking for "change of address" or "update your information." The site will tell you which methods are available in your state and what documents or fees explore. If your state does not offer online changes, the website will direct you to the mail-in form or tell you to visit an office.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states let you change your address online through the DMV website without visiting an office or paying a fee.
  • Online changes usually take a few days to process, while mail-in requests can take two to four weeks.
  • You will need your current driver's license number and your new address to start any change-of-address request.
  • Some states charge a small fee for address changes by mail or in person, but online changes are typically free.
  • Your new license will be mailed to your new address once the change is processed.

What you need before you start

Have your current driver's license number ready — you will need it for any method. You also need your new address, including the street, city, state, and ZIP code. If you are moving to a different state, you cannot straightforward change the address on your current license; you will need to get a new license from that state's DMV instead.

Check whether your state charges a fee for address changes. Most states do not charge for online updates, but some charge $5 to $15 if you change your address by mail or in person. A few states charge nothing regardless of method. Your state's DMV website will list the fee, if any.

Changing your address online

Go to your state's DMV website and find the online services or account portal. You will usually need to log in or create an account using your driver's license number and date of birth. Enter your new address in the form, review it for accuracy, and submit. Most states process online changes within three to five business days.

After you submit, you should receive a confirmation email or message. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address within one to two weeks. You do not need to do anything else — your old license remains valid until the new one arrives. Write down the confirmation number if one is provided, in case you need to check the status later.

Changing your address by mail

If your state does not offer online changes, read the address-change form from the DMV website. The form is usually called "process for Address Change" or "Change of Address Form." Fill it out completely, sign it, and mail it along with your current driver's license to the address listed on the form.

Mail-in requests typically take two to four weeks to process. Keep a copy of the form for your records. If you are concerned about mailing your physical license, check whether your state allows you to mail a photocopy instead — some do, though others require the original. Your state's DMV website will specify what to send.

Changing your address in person at the DMV

Visit your local DMV office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your name and new address. The DMV staff will update your information on the spot.

You may be charged a small fee for in-person changes, though many states waive it. Your new license will be mailed to your new address, or in some cases you can pick it up at the office the same day — ask when you arrive. Bring your current license; you will not be able to use it once the update is processed.

What happens after you submit your change

Your address change is processed by the DMV, and your new license is printed and mailed to your new address. During this time, your old license with the old address is still valid for driving. You do not need to do anything while you wait.

Your new license should arrive within one to three weeks of the change being processed. If more than three weeks have passed and you have not received it, contact your state's DMV to check the status. Have your confirmation number ready if you have one. If your new license does not arrive within a reasonable time, you may need to visit a DMV office to request a replacement.

Changing your address when you move to a different state

If you are moving to a different state, you cannot change the address on your current license. Instead, you must get a new driver's license from your new state's DMV. Each state issues its own licenses, and you cannot hold a valid license from two states at once.

Contact your new state's DMV to learn what documents you need to bring — typically a proof of residency, proof of identity, and your current out-of-state license. Some states let you start the process online, while others require an in-person visit. Your old license will no longer be valid once you receive your new one, so plan the timing carefully if you drive frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my new license after changing my address?

Online changes usually process within three to five business days, and your new license arrives by mail within one to two weeks after that. Mail-in requests take two to four weeks total. In-person changes may be processed the same day, though your new license is still mailed to you unless your state offers same-day pickup.

Can I drive with my old address on my license while waiting for the new one?

Yes. Your old license remains valid for driving until your new license arrives. You do not need to carry proof of your address change. Once your new license arrives, use that instead.

What if I move again before my new license arrives?

Contact your state's DMV and ask to update your address again before the new license ships. If the new license has already been mailed, it will arrive at your previous address. You can either pick it up from whoever lives there, or contact the DMV to request a replacement sent to your current address.

Do I need to change my address at the DMV if I already changed it with the post office?

Yes. The post office's change-of-address service does not update your driver's license. You must contact your state's DMV separately to update your license address. The two systems are not connected.

What counts as proof of my new address?

Acceptable documents usually include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail with your name and new address. The document must show your current address and be recent — usually from the last 30 to 60 days. Check your state's DMV website for the exact list of acceptable documents.