Update Your Georgia Driver's License Address Online, by Mail, or In Person
Georgia allows you to change your address on your driver's license through three routes: online through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website, by mail, or in person at a DDS office. The online method is fastest — you can complete it in minutes without leaving home — but it works only if your address change is within Georgia. If you are moving out of state or need to update other information at the same time, you will need to visit a DDS office or mail in a form.
You do not need to renew your license to change your address. The address update is free, and your license card itself does not change. Georgia straightforward updates its records and mails you a new card with the updated address printed on it within 7 to 10 business days.
Key Takeaways
- Online address changes take minutes and work for moves within Georgia, but you must have a valid email address and access to your current license number.
- Mail-in updates require the DDS Form MV-44 (Address Change), a copy of your license, and proof of your new address; processing takes 2 to 3 weeks.
- In-person visits at any DDS office are fastest for out-of-state moves or if you need to update your name, vision status, or other details at the same time.
- You must update your address within 30 days of moving in Georgia; failure to do so can result in a citation.
- Your current license remains valid during the address change; the new card with your updated address arrives by mail.
Online Address Change Through the Georgia DDS Website
The Georgia DDS website offers an online address change tool that is the fastest option if you are staying within Georgia. Go to the DDS homepage, select "Change Address Online," and log in or create an account. You will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to verify your identity.
After you log in, enter your new Georgia address and confirm it. The system will ask you to review the information, then submit. You will receive a confirmation email when ready. Georgia will mail your new license card to the address you entered within 7 to 10 business days. Your old license remains valid until the new one arrives.
This method does not work if you are moving out of Georgia, if your name has changed, or if you need to update your vision status or other license restrictions. In those cases, you must visit a DDS office in person or mail in the required forms.
Mail-In Address Change Using Form MV-44
To change your address by mail, read or request the DDS Form MV-44 (Address Change) from the Georgia DDS website. You can print it at home or call your local DDS office to request a copy by mail. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign and date the form.
Include with your form a copy of your current driver's license (front and back) and one document that proves your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government-issued mail dated within the last 60 days. Do not send original documents; copies are sufficient.
Mail the completed form, license copy, and proof of address to the Georgia DDS address listed on the form. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date DDS receives your envelope. Your new license card will arrive by mail at your new address. Keep your old license until the new one arrives.
In-Person Address Change at a Georgia DDS Office
Visit any DDS office to change your address in person. Bring your current driver's license and one document proving your new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within 60 days). If you are moving out of Georgia, you must update in person; the online tool and mail-in form do not handle out-of-state moves.
DDS offices are located in most Georgia counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Georgia DDS website. Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times vary. Some offices offer appointment scheduling through the website, which can reduce your time in line.
The staff member will verify your identity, update your address in the system, and issue you a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while your new card is printed and mailed. Your permanent card arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
What Proof of Address Georgia Accepts
Georgia requires one document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new address. The following documents are accepted:
- Utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet)
- Lease agreement or rental contract
- Mortgage statement or property tax bill
- Government-issued mail (tax notice, voter registration, court document)
- Bank or credit card statement
- Insurance policy or bill
The document must show your full name and complete street address. A PO box alone is not sufficient. If you recently moved and have not yet received mail at your new address, bring a signed lease or mortgage document instead.
Timeline and What Happens After You Update
Your address change takes effect when ready in Georgia's system, whether you update online, by mail, or in person. However, your physical license card does not change until the new one is printed and mailed to you. This process takes 7 to 10 business days from the date DDS processes your request.
If you updated in person, you receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days. If you updated online or by mail, your old license remains valid and you can use it until the new card arrives. You do not need to return your old license; straightforward destroy it once the new one arrives.
Georgia law requires you to update your address within 30 days of moving. Driving with an outdated address on your license can result in a citation, even if the address change is pending. Update as soon as you move, not after you receive your new card.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not assume your address has been updated just because you changed it with your insurance company, bank, or employer. The DDS system is separate; you must update it directly through one of the three methods above. Insurance companies and banks do not automatically notify DDS of address changes.
Do not send original documents by mail. Send copies only. Original utility bills, leases, and ID documents can be lost in transit, and DDS does not return them. A photocopy or scan is sufficient proof.
Do not wait until after you move to update your address. Georgia requires the change within 30 days. If you know your move date in advance, you can update online or in person before you move, using your new address.
Do not discard your old license when ready after receiving the new one. Keep both for a few days to confirm the new card arrived correctly and has no errors. Once you are certain, destroy the old license by cutting it in half.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address online if I am moving out of Georgia?
No. The online tool works only for moves within Georgia. If you are relocating to another state, you must visit a DDS office in person or mail in Form MV-44. Out-of-state moves require verification that cannot be completed online.
How long does it take to receive my new license card after I update my address?
Georgia mails your new card within 7 to 10 business days from the date your request is processed. Online updates are processed when ready, so your card ships within a few days. Mail-in requests take 2 to 3 weeks to process, then another 7 to 10 days to arrive. In-person updates are processed the same day.
What if I move and do not update my address within 30 days?
Driving with an outdated address is a violation in Georgia. You can be cited by law enforcement, and your license may be suspended if you accumulate violations. Update your address as soon as you move, even if your new card has not arrived yet.
Do I need to bring my old license to update my address in person?
Yes. Bring your current driver's license and one document proving your new address. The DDS staff member will scan or photograph your old license as part of the update process.
Can I update my address and renew my license at the same time?
Yes. If your license is expiring soon, you can renew and update your address in a single visit to a DDS office. Bring your current license, proof of your new address, and any documents required for renewal (such as proof of residency if your license has expired). This is more efficient than making two separate trips.