What Form You Need and Where to Get It

Washington's address change form is called the process for Washington Driver License/ID Card, form number DL 44. You do not fill out a separate address-only form — you use the same process you would use to renew or replace your license, but you mark it to show you are changing your address only.

You can get the form three ways: read it from the Washington Department of Licensing website (dol.wa.gov), pick up a printed copy at any licensing office, or fill it out on a computer at the office itself before you submit it. The form is free.

If you are changing your address and your license is also expiring soon, you can renew and change your address at the same time using this same form. If your license is not expiring for years, you still use DL 44 — you are not required to renew just to update your address.

Key Takeaways

  • The form you need is DL 44, the standard driver license process, available free from the Department of Licensing website or any licensing office.
  • You must provide your current Washington driver license or ID card number, your new address, and proof that you live there (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days).
  • You can submit the form by mail with copies of your documents, or in person at any licensing office — mail takes longer but costs less.
  • Processing time is typically two to three weeks by mail or same-day in person, though in-person visits may require an appointment depending on office location.
  • The fee for an address change is lower than a renewal or replacement, but varies slightly by whether you submit by mail or in person.

What Information and Documents the Form Requires

The DL 44 form asks for your full legal name, date of birth, current Washington driver license or ID card number, and your new address. You must fill in every field that applies to you — leaving blanks will delay processing or cause the form to be rejected.

You also need to bring or mail a document that proves you live at your new address. Washington accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail (such as a tax return or voter registration card) dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail with your name and new address on it is the easiest proof to provide.

If your name has changed since your current license was issued, you must also provide a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If your name matches your current license, you do not need this.

Submitting by Mail Versus In Person

You have two options for submitting your address change: mail the completed form and documents to the Department of Licensing, or visit a licensing office in person.

By mail: Make copies of both sides of your current driver license or ID card and your proof of residence. Mail the original form, the copies, and your proof of residence to the address listed on the form (currently the Department of Licensing in Olympia, though you should verify the current mailing address on dol.wa.gov). Do not mail your actual license or ID card. Processing takes two to three weeks. The fee is lower than in-person submission.

In person: Bring your completed form, your current driver license or ID card, and your proof of residence to any Washington licensing office. You can fill out the form at the office if you have not already. Processing is usually same-day or within a few days. The fee is slightly higher than mail submission. Many offices now require an appointment; check the office location on dol.wa.gov to book one.

Fees and Processing Time

The cost of an address change depends on how you submit it. As of the most recent update, address changes submitted by mail cost less than those submitted in person, but the exact amount varies and can change. Check the Department of Licensing website or call your local licensing office for the current fee before you submit.

If you are renewing your license at the same time you change your address, you will pay the renewal fee, not the address-change fee. Renewal fees also vary by license type and whether you choose a standard or enhanced license.

Processing time by mail is typically two to three weeks from the date the Department of Licensing receives your form. In-person submissions are usually processed the same day or within a few business days. If you need your new card urgently, in-person submission is faster.

What Happens After You Submit

Once the Department of Licensing processes your address change, they will mail your new driver license or ID card to your new address. You should receive it within the timeframe stated above. Your old card becomes invalid once the new one is issued, even if the old card has not yet expired.

If you submitted by mail and do not receive your new card within four weeks, contact the Department of Licensing to check the status. If you submitted in person, ask for a receipt showing your submission date — you can use this to track your card if needed.

If you move again before your new card arrives, do not open a second address-change request. Contact the Department of Licensing directly and provide your new address; they can redirect your card if it has not yet shipped.

Common Mistakes That Delay Processing

The most common reason for rejection is submitting a proof-of-residence document that is too old. Washington requires the document to be dated within 60 days of submission. A utility bill from four months ago will not work. Check the date on your document before you mail or submit it.

Another frequent error is submitting the form with blank fields or illegible handwriting. Fill in every applicable field clearly. If you are mailing the form, use black or blue ink and print or write in capital letters so the scanning equipment can read it.

Do not mail your actual driver license or ID card. The Department of Licensing only needs copies of both sides. Sending the original card can result in it being lost or damaged, and you will have to request a replacement.

If you are changing your address and your name has changed, make sure you include the certified copy of your name-change document. Submitting without it will delay processing while the department contacts you to request it.

If You Cannot Use the Standard Form

If you have a commercial driver license (CDL), you cannot use the standard DL 44 form for an address change. CDL holders must visit a licensing office in person and bring their CDL, proof of residence, and proof of medical certification. Contact your local office for specific requirements.

If you are a non-citizen without a Social Security number, you can still change your address, but you will need to bring additional documents proving your identity and legal presence in Washington. The Department of Licensing website lists the specific documents required; call ahead to confirm what you need to bring.

If your license is suspended or revoked, you can still change your address, but the address change will not restore your driving privileges. You must resolve the suspension or revocation separately through the appropriate court or agency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online?

Washington does not currently offer online address changes for driver licenses or ID cards. You must submit the form by mail or in person at a licensing office. Check dol.wa.gov occasionally, as online services are added periodically.

Do I need an appointment to go to a licensing office?

Many Washington licensing offices now require appointments, but not all. Check the specific office location on the Department of Licensing website to see if you need to book one. If appointments are required and none are available, you may be able to visit a different office nearby.

What if I moved out of state?

If you no longer live in Washington, you should not change your address on your Washington license. Instead, you should obtain a driver license or ID card from your new state. You can keep your Washington license as a form of ID, but it will show an out-of-state address and may cause confusion.

How long is my new card valid after an address change?

Your new card has the same expiration date as your old card. An address change does not extend the validity of your license. If your license is expiring soon, consider renewing it at the same time you change your address.

What if my proof of residence is in someone else's name?

Your proof of residence must show your name and your new address. If you live with a roommate or family member and the utility bill is in their name, ask them for a letter on their letterhead confirming that you live at that address, or use a different document such as a bank statement or lease that is in your name.