Where to change your Tennessee address

You can change your address with the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) in three ways: in person at a Driver Services office, by mail, or online through the TDOSHS website. The online method is fastest if you have a valid Tennessee driver's license and a computer with internet access. In-person visits work if you prefer to handle it the same day, though you may wait in line. Mail takes the longest — typically two to three weeks — but requires no trip.

Tennessee does not charge a fee to update your address on an existing license. You do not need to renew your license early or pay for a replacement card unless you want a physical card with the new address printed on it (which costs the standard renewal fee). Your current license remains valid at the old address until it expires.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at any Driver Services office, and there is no fee for the change itself.
  • Online changes take one to two business days; in-person changes are when ready; mail takes two to three weeks.
  • Your current license stays valid even with the old address printed on it until your renewal date.
  • If you want a new card printed with your new address before renewal, you will pay the standard renewal fee and receive a replacement card in the mail.
  • You will need proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.

Online address change through TDOSHS

Visit the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website and select the address change option from the Driver Services menu. You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity and ask you to enter your new address.

After you submit, the change typically appears in the system within one to two business days. You will receive a confirmation email or letter depending on the contact information on file. Your license itself will not change — the address in the system updates, but the card in your wallet still shows the old address until you renew or request a replacement card.

In-person address change at a Driver Services office

Bring your current Tennessee driver's license and proof of your new address to any Driver Services office. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail addressed to you at the new location. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

The staff member will update your address in the system on the spot. You will receive a receipt showing the change has been recorded. Like the online method, your physical license card will not change unless you pay for a replacement. Find the Driver Services office nearest you on the TDOSHS website, which lists hours and locations across the state.

Mailing in your address change

read the address change form from the TDOSHS website or request one by phone at 615-251-8590. Fill out the form with your current license number, new address, and sign it. Attach a copy of proof of your new address — the same documents accepted in person work by mail.

Mail the completed form and proof to the address listed on the form (typically the TDOSHS Driver Services office in Nashville). Processing takes two to three weeks. You will not receive a confirmation letter in most cases, so keep a copy of what you mailed for your records. Your address updates in the system, but again, your physical card does not change.

When to request a replacement card with your new address

If you want a new license card printed with your updated address, you can request a replacement at any Driver Services office or through the mail. The replacement card costs the same as a standard renewal fee, which varies but is typically around $27 for a four-year license. You will receive the new card in the mail within one to two weeks.

A replacement card is optional — your current license remains legal and valid even with the old address printed on it. However, some people prefer to have the new address on the card for clarity when presenting ID to banks, landlords, or other organizations. If you are renewing your license anyway, the new card will include your current address at no extra charge.

Address changes and insurance or vehicle registration

Changing your driver's license address does not automatically update your vehicle registration or insurance records. You must notify your insurance company separately — most require you to update your address within a set time frame, often 30 days. Contact your insurer directly by phone, online, or through your agent.

Vehicle registration updates are handled through the Tennessee Department of Revenue, not TDOSHS. If you moved within Tennessee, you can update your registration online, by mail, or at a county clerk's office. If you moved from another state, you will need to register your vehicle in Tennessee as a new resident. These are separate processes from your driver's license address change.

What happens if you do not update your address

Tennessee law does not require you to update your driver's license address within a specific time frame, but there are practical consequences. If you are pulled over and your license shows an old address, an officer may question whether you still live there or whether the license is yours. This can complicate the traffic stop.

More importantly, if you receive a ticket, court notice, or other official mail, it will be sent to the address on your license. If you do not receive it, you may miss a court date or important date. Insurance companies and lenders also expect your ID address to match your current residence, and mismatches can raise red flags or delay transactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to update my address before my license expires?

No. Tennessee does not set a important date for updating your address. However, it is practical to do so soon after moving so that official mail reaches you and your ID matches your current residence.

What counts as proof of my new address?

Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail addressed to you. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and show your full name and new address.

If I change my address online, will I get a new card in the mail?

No. Online and mail address changes update the system only. Your physical card keeps the old address. If you want a new card printed with your new address, you must request and pay for a replacement card.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended or expired?

You can update your address in the system even if your license is suspended or expired. However, if your license is suspended, you cannot legally drive. Contact TDOSHS or a Driver Services office to understand the status of your license and what steps are needed to restore it.

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

Online changes take one to two business days. In-person changes are when ready. Mail takes two to three weeks. The physical card in your wallet does not change unless you request a replacement.