What You Need to Do in Georgia

In Georgia, you can change your driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a Department of Driver Services (DDS) office. The online method is the fastest — you can update your address in minutes without leaving home. If you prefer to go in person or mail your request, both options are available, though they take longer.

You do not need to renew your license to change your address. Georgia treats an address change as a separate transaction from license renewal, so your current license stays valid while you update where the state has on file.

Key Takeaways

  • Georgia's online address change tool is the quickest method and requires only your license number, date of birth, and a valid email address.
  • You can also change your address in person at any DDS office by bringing your current license and proof of your new address.
  • Mailing in a change-of-address form takes two to three weeks but works if you cannot visit an office or use the online system.
  • Your new address will appear on your license the next time you renew, but the state's records update when ready regardless of which method you use.

Changing Your Address Online

The Georgia DDS website has a dedicated address-change tool that is the simplest route for most people. Go to the DDS website, select the address-change option, and enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the email address on file with your account. You will need to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your driving record.

Once you complete the online form, your address updates in Georgia's system right away. You will receive a confirmation email. Your physical license card will still show your old address until you renew it, but law enforcement and the state will see your new address in their records.

Changing Your Address In Person at a DDS Office

If you prefer to handle this face-to-face, visit any DDS office in Georgia with your current driver's license and one document that proves your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The office staff will update your address on the spot.

You do not need an appointment for an address change at most DDS locations, but wait times vary by office and time of day. Visiting early in the morning on a weekday typically means a shorter wait. Your address updates when ready, and like the online method, your physical card will show the old address until renewal.

Changing Your Address by Mail

You can request an address change by mail if you cannot visit an office or use the online system. Contact the Georgia DDS to request a change-of-address form, or read it from their website if available. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and mail it to the address listed on the form along with a copy of your proof of address.

Processing by mail takes two to three weeks. Send your materials via regular mail or certified mail if you want tracking. Once the DDS receives and processes your request, you will receive confirmation, and your address will be updated in the state's system.

What Counts as Proof of Your New Address

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

If you are moving to a new address but do not yet have a document in your name at that location, ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your move-in date and new address. Some DDS offices will accept this in place of a utility bill or lease, though policies can vary by location.

Timeline and What Happens Next

If you change your address online or in person, the update takes effect when ready in Georgia's system. Your physical license card will continue to show your old address until you renew your license at the end of its validity period. When you renew, you will receive a new card with your current address printed on it.

If you change your address by mail, allow two to three weeks for processing. During that time, your old address remains on file. Once processed, your address updates in the system, and again, your physical card will not reflect the change until renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address before I move, or can I do it after?

You can change your address before or after you move. However, Georgia law requires that your address on file with DDS match where you actually live. If you have already moved, update your address as soon as you have proof of your new residence.

What if I do not have a utility bill or lease in my name yet?

Ask your landlord, property manager, or the person whose name is on the utility bill to provide a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your new address and move-in date. Some DDS offices accept this as temporary proof while you wait for a bill in your name. Call your local DDS office first to confirm they will accept a landlord letter.

Will my license number change when I update my address?

No. Your license number stays the same. Only your address information changes. Your current license remains valid and will continue to work for identification purposes even though it shows your old address.

Can I change my address online if I have a commercial driver's license?

The online address-change tool works for standard driver's licenses. If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), contact your local DDS office or call the DDS directly to confirm whether you can update your address online or whether you must visit in person or mail your request.

How long does it take to see my new address in the system?

Online and in-person changes update when ready. Mail-in requests take two to three weeks. Once your address is updated in Georgia's system, law enforcement and other state agencies will see your new address, even though your physical card still shows the old one.