The cost to change your address on a driver's license varies by state, and most states charge between $0 and $25 for the transaction
Some states include an address change in your regular renewal fee and charge nothing extra. Others charge a separate fee that ranges from $5 to $25 depending on the state and whether you're renewing at the same time. A few states—including California, Florida, and New York—charge nothing at all for an address-only change. The fastest way to find your state's exact fee is to visit your state's DMV website directly, because fees change and vary by transaction type.
If you're renewing your license at the same time you change your address, you'll pay the full renewal fee, which typically ranges from $20 to $100 depending on your state and license class. An address-only change is usually cheaper than a full renewal, so if your license is not expiring soon, changing the address separately may save you money.
Key Takeaways
- Most states charge $0 to $25 for an address-only change, but some charge nothing and others bundle it into renewal fees.
- Changing your address during a renewal costs the full renewal fee, which is typically $20 to $100 depending on your state.
- Your state's DMV website lists the exact fee for your situation before you submit payment.
- Some states allow address changes online or by mail at no cost, while others require an in-person visit and charge a processing fee.
How fees differ between address-only changes and renewals
An address-only change is a transaction where you update your address without renewing your license. This is the cheapest option if your license is still valid. Most states charge $5 to $15 for this, though some charge nothing. You typically submit a form, proof of residency, and your current license, and the DMV mails you an updated license with the new address.
A renewal with address change happens when your license is expiring or has expired. You pay the full renewal fee—which covers the new license card itself—and the address change is included at no extra cost. Renewal fees are higher because you're getting a new physical license, not just a mailed update. If your license expires in the next few months, it may make sense to renew and change the address together rather than pay twice.
Some states offer a duplicate license with address change, which costs more than an address-only change but less than a renewal. This option is useful if you need the updated license quickly and your current license is still valid. Duplicate fees typically range from $10 to $20.
State-by-state fee examples
| State | Address-Only Change Fee | Renewal Fee (for reference) | How to Submit |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $0 | $39 | Online, mail, or in person |
| Florida | $0 | $48 | Online or in person |
| New York | $0 | $65 | Online or in person |
| Texas | $11 | $33 | Online, mail, or in person |
| Ohio | $5 | $27 | In person or by mail |
| Pennsylvania | $0 | $42 | In person or by mail |
| Illinois | $5 | $30 | Online, mail, or in person |
| Georgia | $20 | $32 | In person |
These fees are current as of 2024 but change periodically. Always check your state DMV's official website before submitting payment, because fees listed here may have been updated since publication.
What documents you need to bring or submit
Most states require proof of your new address when you change it on your license. Acceptable documents typically include a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and new address. The document usually must be dated within the last 60 days, though this varies by state.
You'll also need to bring or submit your current driver's license and a completed address-change form. Some states have a specific form (like California's DL 43 or Texas's DL 43), while others use a general renewal or change form. Your state's DMV website will tell you which form to use and whether you can fill it out online before you go in.
If you're changing your address by mail, you'll mail the form, a copy of your proof of residency, and your current license to the address listed on the DMV website. Some states require the documents to be notarized; check your state's requirements before mailing anything.
Online versus in-person address changes and their costs
Many states now allow address changes online at no extra cost. California, Florida, New York, and Texas all offer online address changes through their DMV portals. You log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, enter your new address, and pay the fee (if any) by credit card. The updated license arrives by mail in 7 to 14 days. Online changes are the fastest and cheapest option when available.
In-person changes at a DMV office usually cost the same as online changes, but you get your updated license when ready or within a few days. Some states charge a small processing fee for in-person transactions—typically $2 to $5—on top of the address-change fee. If you need the updated license right away for a bank account or insurance update, an in-person visit may be worth the extra fee.
Mail-in address changes are free or low-cost in most states, but they take 2 to 4 weeks. You'll need to include proof of residency and your current license. Some states require notarization, which adds a small cost ($5 to $15) if you don't have a notary available.
When you might pay more than the standard fee
If you need a rush or expedited license, you'll pay an additional fee on top of the address-change fee. Rush processing typically costs $10 to $25 and gets your license to you in 3 to 5 business days instead of 7 to 14. Not all states offer this option, and it's usually only available for in-person transactions or certain online services.
If your license has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you may be charged a duplicate or replacement fee instead of an address-change fee. This is typically $10 to $20 and is higher than a standard address change because you're getting a new card. If you're changing your address at the same time, the fee covers both.
Some states charge extra if you need a REAL ID-compliant license or if you're upgrading your license class (for example, from a standard license to a commercial license). These upgrades are separate from an address change and will increase your total cost. Check whether your current license is already REAL ID-compliant before paying for an upgrade.
How to find your state's exact fee before you pay
Visit your state's official DMV website and search for "address change fee" or "change of address." The website will show you the fee for your specific situation—address-only, renewal, or duplicate. Most state DMV sites have a fee schedule that breaks down costs by transaction type.
If you can't find the fee online, call your state DMV's customer service line. Have your driver's license number ready and tell them whether you're doing an address-only change or a renewal. They can tell you the exact fee and which documents you need before you make a trip to an office or submit payment online.
Some states offer a fee calculator on their DMV website where you enter your license type and transaction type, and it shows you the total cost. This is the most reliable way to know what you'll pay before you commit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address for free?
Yes, in California, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania, address-only changes are free. In most other states, the fee is $5 to $15. If you're renewing your license at the same time, the address change is included in the renewal fee at no extra cost.
What if I move before my license arrives?
Contact your state DMV and provide your new address. Some states allow you to update your address online even after you've submitted a change request. If the license is already in the mail, you may be able to have it forwarded or reissued to your new address. Call your DMV to ask about your options.
Do I have to change my address on my license if I move?
Most states require you to update your address within 10 to 30 days of moving. Driving with an outdated address can result in a fine, though it's usually not enforced unless you're pulled over. It's best to change it promptly to avoid issues with traffic stops or insurance claims.
Is the fee the same if I change my address online versus in person?
Usually yes, but some states charge a small in-person processing fee ($2 to $5) on top of the address-change fee. Online changes are often the same price or slightly cheaper. Check your state's DMV website to compare.
What if I need my updated license for a bank account or insurance?
If you need it quickly, pay for rush processing (if available) or go in person to get an updated license the same day or within a few days. Mail-in changes take 2 to 4 weeks, so they won't work if you need the updated address when ready. Some banks and insurance companies will accept a change-of-address form or utility bill as proof while you wait for your new license.