Where to update your Ontario driver's license address
You can update your Ontario driver's license address in three ways: online through ServiceOntario, in person at a ServiceOntario office, or by mail. The online method is the fastest if you have a valid email address and your current license number. In-person updates take about 15 minutes and require no appointment at most locations. Mail is the slowest option and takes 10 to 15 business days after ServiceOntario receives your form.
ServiceOntario offices are located in most towns and cities across Ontario. You can find the nearest one by visiting the ServiceOntario website and entering your postal code. Some Service Ontario locations are inside government buildings, libraries, or Service Ontario kiosks in retail stores. Call ahead if you are unsure whether your local office handles driver's license updates, since some smaller locations do not.
Key Takeaways
- Online updates through ServiceOntario are free and take minutes if you have your license number and a valid email address.
- In-person updates at a ServiceOntario office require your current license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
- You do not need to pay a fee to update your address, but you will need to pay if you also request a replacement card.
- Your insurance company should be notified of your address change separately, as updating your license does not automatically update your policy.
- If you moved out of Ontario, you must get a license from your new province or country rather than updating your Ontario license.
Online address updates through ServiceOntario
The online method is available 24 hours a day and requires no visit to an office. Go to the ServiceOntario website, select "Update your address on your driver's license," and log in with your Ontario driver's license number and date of birth. You will need to enter your new address and confirm your email address. ServiceOntario will send a confirmation email within minutes.
Your license remains valid after an online update. The address change takes effect when ready in the system, even though your physical card still shows the old address. If you need a card with your new address printed on it, you can order a replacement for a fee of around $20 to $30, depending on the type of license. The replacement card arrives by mail in 10 to 15 business days.
Online updates work only if you have a valid email address and your license is not suspended or expired. If your license expired more than one year ago, you cannot update online and must visit a ServiceOntario office in person.
In-person updates at a ServiceOntario office
Bring your current Ontario driver's license and one piece of proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax assessment, or government letter addressed to you at your new address. The document must show your name and full address and be dated within the last three months.
Walk into any ServiceOntario office during business hours. No appointment is needed for address updates. Tell the staff member you want to update your address on your driver's license. They will verify your identity, check your proof of address, and process the update on the spot. The update takes effect when ready.
If you also want a replacement card with your new address printed on it, you will pay a fee at the time of your visit. If you only update the address in the system without ordering a new card, there is no charge. Your old card remains valid for driving and identification purposes.
Mail-in address updates
read the "Change of Address" form from the ServiceOntario website or pick one up at a ServiceOntario office. Fill in your name, license number, new address, and date of birth. Include a copy of one piece of proof of your new address — the same documents accepted in person work by mail. Do not send your original license.
Mail the completed form and proof of address to the address listed on the form. ServiceOntario processes mail-in requests in the order they are received. You should expect the address change to take effect 10 to 15 business days after ServiceOntario receives your form. You will not receive a confirmation letter; the change is complete when the timeframe has passed.
If you want a replacement card, include a cheque or money order for the replacement fee along with your form. The new card will arrive by mail after the address update is processed. Keep a copy of your form for your records in case you need to follow up.
What happens to your insurance after an address change
Updating your driver's license address does not automatically update your car insurance policy. You must contact your insurance company separately and tell them about your move. Your insurance rate may change based on your new location, even if you stay with the same insurer. Some areas have higher rates for theft, accidents, or weather-related claims, so your premium could go up or down.
Call your insurance company as soon as you move, or update your address through their online portal if they offer one. Have your policy number ready. The address change usually takes effect the same day or within one business day. If you do not update your address and you have a claim, your insurer may deny it if they discover the address mismatch during investigation.
If you moved out of Ontario
You cannot update your Ontario license if you have moved to another province or country. Instead, you must get a driver's license from your new location. Each province and country has its own licensing system and rules. Contact the licensing authority in your new location to find out what documents you need and whether your Ontario license can be exchanged for a local one.
If you still live in Ontario but moved from another province, you can update your address on your Ontario license using any of the three methods above. You do not need to exchange your out-of-province license unless it has expired or you want to update it for other reasons.
Proof of address documents ServiceOntario accepts
| Document Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Utility bill (hydro, gas, water) | Must show your name and full address, dated within three months |
| Lease agreement or rental contract | Must show your name, landlord name, property address, and be signed and dated |
| Mortgage statement or property tax assessment | Must show your name and full address, dated within three months |
| Government letter (CRA, ServiceOntario, etc.) | Must be addressed to you at your new address and dated within three months |
| Bank or credit card statement | Must show your name and full address, dated within three months |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to update my address if I only moved within Ontario?
Yes. Even if you moved to a different city or neighbourhood within Ontario, you should update your address on your driver's license. Your address is part of your identity verification, and some services or law enforcement may check it. Updating is free and takes minutes online.
Can I use a cell phone bill or internet bill as proof of address?
Cell phone and internet bills are not accepted by ServiceOntario as proof of address. Stick to utility bills (hydro, gas, water), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax assessments, or government letters. If you do not have any of these, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your address.
What if my name changed at the same time I moved?
You will need to update both your name and address. Online updates work only for address changes. For a name change, you must visit a ServiceOntario office in person and bring your current license plus legal proof of the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You can update both at the same visit.
How long does my old license stay valid after I update my address?
Your old license remains valid for driving and identification even after you update your address. The address in the system is what matters for official records. If you want a card with your new address printed on it, you can order a replacement for a fee, but it is not required.
What if ServiceOntario lost my mail-in form?
If you mailed your form and more than 15 business days have passed with no change, contact ServiceOntario by phone or visit an office in person with your license and proof of address. Bring a copy of your mailed form if you kept one. They can check whether your form was received and process the update on the spot if it was not.