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 if you meet certain conditions. The online option is fastest if you're may be able to access — it takes minutes and costs nothing. In-person visits at a Driver Services office take about 30 minutes on average, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Mail-in changes take two to three weeks from the date TDOSHS receives your request.

Not all situations may have access to for online renewal. You can use the online method only if your license is not suspended, revoked, or cancelled, and if you're not changing your name or sex designation. If any of those explore, you must visit a Driver Services office in person or submit a paper form by mail.

Key Takeaways

  • Tennessee offers three address-change methods: online (fastest, if may be able to access), in person at a Driver Services office, or by mail.
  • Online changes work only if your license is valid and you're not changing your name or sex designation at the same time.
  • You'll need your current license number, Social Security number, and the new address to change your information.
  • In-person visits require your current license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days.
  • Mail-in requests take two to three weeks and require a completed form, a copy of your license, and proof of address.

Changing your address online

To change your address online, go to the TDOSHS website and select the address-change option. You'll enter your driver's license number, Social Security number, and new address. The system will verify your information and, if everything matches their records, process the change when ready. You won't receive a new physical license — your current one remains valid with the old address printed on it, but TDOSHS records will show your new address for mail and official purposes.

This method works best if you need the change recorded quickly for insurance, voter registration, or other documents that rely on TDOSHS records rather than the card itself. If you need a new license card with the updated address printed on it, you'll have to visit a Driver Services office or submit a mail-in renewal request.

Changing your address in person at a Driver Services office

Visit any Driver Services office with your current Tennessee driver's license and proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. The office will update your record and issue a new license card with your new address on the spot. The fee is $19.50 for a standard replacement license.

To find the nearest office and check current wait times, use the TDOSHS office locator on their website. Some offices are busier than others — visiting early in the morning or mid-week often means shorter waits. Bring your Social Security number as well, since staff will verify it against your process.

Changing your address by mail

Request a mail-in form from TDOSHS or read it from their website. The form is called the process for Duplicate License (Form DL 43). Fill it out completely, sign it, and mail it along with a photocopy of your current license and proof of your new address. Mail everything to the address listed on the form — typically the TDOSHS headquarters in Nashville, though regional offices may accept mail as well.

Include a check or money order for $19.50 made payable to the State of Tennessee. TDOSHS will process your request and mail your new license to the address you provided. The entire process usually takes two to three weeks from the date they receive your envelope. If you need the change faster, in-person or online is better.

What proof of address TDOSHS accepts

Your proof of address must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and new address. 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
  • Government mail (tax notice, voter registration card, court document)
  • Insurance policy or declaration page

If you're moving and don't yet have a document in your name at the new address, ask your landlord, utility company, or bank for a letter on their letterhead confirming your new address and move-in date. Some will provide this at no cost. A notarized letter from someone who lives with you at the new address can also work in a pinch, though TDOSHS prefers official documents.

Timing: when your address change takes effect

If you change your address online, the update is when ready in TDOSHS records. If you change it in person, the new license is issued on the spot and your old one is surrendered. If you mail in your request, the new license is mailed to you and becomes valid when it arrives.

For insurance purposes, notify your auto insurance company of your address change as soon as you move. Some insurers update automatically if they pull your license information, but most require you to call or log into your account. Your rates may change based on your new location — urban areas often cost more than rural ones, and some ZIP codes have higher accident or theft rates. Don't wait for your new license to arrive; tell your insurer the day you move.

Changing your address if your license is suspended or revoked

If your license is suspended, revoked, or cancelled, you cannot change your address online or by mail. You must visit a Driver Services office in person. Bring your current license (or the notice of suspension if you no longer have the card), proof of your new address, and any documents required to lift the suspension — such as proof of SR22 insurance, payment of outstanding fines, or completion of a required course.

The office staff will update your address and address any issues with your license status at the same time. If your suspension is active, they cannot issue a new license, but they will record your new address in the system. Once your suspension is lifted, you can request a new license card by mail or in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get a new license card when I change my address online?

No. Online changes update TDOSHS records only. Your current license card remains valid and keeps the old address printed on it. If you need a new card with the updated address, visit a Driver Services office or mail in a replacement request.

What if I move before my new license arrives in the mail?

Contact TDOSHS when ready with your updated address. If your new license is already in the mail system, it may be returned to TDOSHS as undeliverable. Call the Driver Services office or visit the website to request that your new license be mailed to your current address instead.

Can I change my address if I'm out of state?

Yes, you can change your address online or by mail from anywhere. If you're moving out of Tennessee permanently, you'll eventually need to get a license from your new state, but you can update your Tennessee address first if you need to.

Does changing my address affect my insurance rates?

It may. Insurance rates depend partly on where you live — your new ZIP code, city, and neighborhood all factor into the quote. Tell your insurance company about your move right away so they can recalculate your rate. Some moves lower your premium; others raise it.

How long does TDOSHS keep my old address on file?

Once you update your address, TDOSHS replaces the old one in their active records. However, they may retain historical records for administrative purposes. For practical purposes, your new address is the one they use for all official correspondence and license-related documents.