What You Need to Do to Change Your Address in Washington
You can change your Washington driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a Department of Licensing (DOL) office. The online method is fastest — you can update your address in minutes without leaving home, and the change takes effect when ready. If you prefer mail or in-person, the process takes longer but works the same way: you provide your new address, pay a small fee, and receive an updated license in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Washington does not require you to get a new photo or retake your license test when you change your address. You keep your current license number and expiration date. The only thing that changes on your license is the address printed on it.
You must update your address within a reasonable time after you move. Washington law does not set a hard important date, but driving with an outdated address can cause problems if you are stopped by police or need to use your license as proof of residency.
Key Takeaways
- Washington's online address change takes minutes and costs $20, with no appointment needed.
- You can also change your address by mail or at any DOL office, though these methods take 7 to 10 business days for your new license to arrive.
- You will need your current driver's license number, your new address, and a payment method (online) or check (by mail).
- Your license number and expiration date stay the same — only the address updates.
- If you moved out of state or your license is expired, you cannot use the online method and must visit a DOL office in person.
Change Your Address Online Through Washington's DOL Website
The online method is the fastest and most convenient option. Go to the Washington Department of Licensing website and select the address change option under "Driver License Services." You will need your current driver's license number, your new Washington address, and a debit or credit card to pay the $20 fee.
The system will ask you to confirm your identity by answering security questions based on your DOL records. Once you complete the form and pay, your address change is processed when ready. You do not receive a new physical license right away — your current license remains valid with the old address printed on it. However, the DOL's records are updated, and if you are stopped by police, they can see your correct address in their system.
If you want a new license card printed with your updated address, you can request one for an additional $20 fee during the online transaction. The new card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. This is optional — your old license remains valid even with the outdated address on it.
You cannot use the online method if your license is expired, if you have moved out of state, or if your name has changed since your license was issued. In those cases, you must visit a DOL office or explore by mail.
Change Your Address by Mail
To change your address by mail, read the "Address Change" form from the Washington DOL website or request one by calling 360-902-3900. Fill out the form with your current license number, your new address, and sign it. Include a check or money order for $20 payable to "Washington State Department of Licensing."
Mail the completed form and payment to the address listed on the form — typically the DOL headquarters in Olympia. Include a copy of your current driver's license if possible, though it is not required. The DOL will process your request and mail you a new license card with your updated address within 7 to 10 business days.
Keep a record of when you mailed the form. If you do not receive your new license within two weeks, contact the DOL to confirm they received your request. Mail can be delayed, and the DOL may need additional information.
Change Your Address in Person at a DOL Office
You can walk into any Washington Department of Licensing office and request an address change. Bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or other official document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and new address.
The fee is $20. You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at most offices. The DOL will process your request on the spot and print a new license card before you leave. You will have your updated license in hand the same day.
No appointment is required at most DOL offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Call ahead or check the DOL website to find the office nearest you and see current wait times. Some offices are busier than others, so visiting early in the morning or mid-week may mean a shorter wait.
What Counts as Proof of Your New Address
Washington requires proof that you actually live at the address you are claiming. The document must show your name, your new address, and be dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include:
- Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone)
- Lease agreement or rental contract
- Mortgage statement or property tax bill
- Bank or credit card statement
- Insurance policy (auto, home, or renter's)
- Government mail (tax return, voter registration, court document)
- Paycheck stub showing your address
If you are changing your address online, you do not need to provide proof — the DOL uses information already in their system to verify your identity. If you are changing your address by mail or in person, bring one of these documents with you or include a copy with your form.
If you cannot get a document in your name at your new address (for example, if you just moved and utilities have not been connected yet), contact the DOL office directly. They may accept a signed letter from your landlord or other alternative proof.
Fees and Timeline for Each Method
| Method | Fee | Timeline | New Card Printed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online (address change only) | $20 | when ready | No — records updated, old card still valid |
| Online (with new card) | $40 | 7–10 business days for card | Yes — mailed to you |
| By mail | $20 | 7–10 business days | Yes — mailed to you |
| In person at DOL office | $20 | Same day | Yes — printed on the spot |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not assume your address change is complete just because you updated it online without ordering a new card. Your DOL records are updated, but the physical license in your wallet still shows your old address. If you are stopped by police, they will see the correct address in their system, but you may want to carry proof of your new address just in case.
Do not use an outdated address as your mailing address if you move. If you change your address with the DOL but forget to update it with the post office, mail sent to your old address will not be forwarded to your new one. Update your address with the U.S. Postal Service separately — the DOL does not do this for you.
Do not submit a form by mail without including payment. The DOL will not process your request if the check or money order is missing, and they will not contact you to ask for it. Your form may sit in a queue until you follow up.
Do not try to change your address online if your license is expired or if you have moved out of state. The online system will reject your request. You must visit a DOL office or explore by mail instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to get a new license card when I change my address?
No. If you change your address online without ordering a new card, your old license remains valid and your DOL records are updated. If you want a new card printed with your updated address, you can order one for an additional $20 fee, or you can change your address in person or by mail and receive a new card automatically.
How long does it take to get my new license card in the mail?
The DOL typically mails new license cards within 7 to 10 business days after processing your request. Delivery time depends on your location and postal service delays. If you do not receive your card within two weeks, contact the DOL to confirm they processed your request.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
No, you cannot use the online method if your license is expired. You must visit a DOL office in person or explore by mail. Bring your expired license and proof of your new address. You may also need to renew your license at the same time, which involves additional fees and requirements.
What if I moved to a different state?
You cannot change your Washington address online if you have moved out of state. You must visit a Washington DOL office in person or explore by mail. If you have permanently moved to another state, you should consider obtaining a driver's license from your new state instead of maintaining a Washington license.
Do I need an appointment to change my address at a DOL office?
No appointment is required at most Washington DOL offices. You can walk in during business hours. Wait times vary by location and time of day. Check the DOL website or call ahead to find the nearest office and see current wait times.