Where to report your address change
You report an address change to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), not to your local government or police. Most states let you do this online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. A few states require you to appear in person. The fastest route is usually your state's DMV website — you can often complete the change in minutes without leaving home.
If you do not know your state's DMV website, search "[your state] DMV address change" or call 411 for the DMV phone number. Some states use different names: California calls it the Department of Motor Vehicles; New York calls it the Department of Motor Vehicles; Texas calls it the Department of Public Safety. The function is the same regardless of the name.
Key Takeaways
- Most states let you change your address online through the DMV website without visiting an office or paying a fee.
- You will need your driver's license number, current address, and new address to complete the change.
- Some states mail you a new license with your updated address; others update your record and mail a sticker to place on your current license.
- Address changes usually take effect within one to two weeks, though the physical license or sticker may arrive later.
- If you move before your new license arrives, contact the DMV with your forwarding address so mail reaches you.
What you need before you start
Gather your driver's license number and your new address before you begin. You will also need to know your current address as it appears on your license. If you are changing your address online, have your license in front of you so you can read the number and expiration date.
Some states ask for additional information: your Social Security number, date of birth, or the county where you currently live. A few states require proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days. Check your state's DMV website to see what documents you need before you start the process.
Online address changes
Most states offer online address changes through their DMV website. Go to your state's DMV site, look for "change address" or "update address," and enter your license number and personal information. The system will ask for your current address and your new address. Review the information carefully before you submit, because mistakes can delay mail or cause confusion with traffic tickets and vehicle registration.
After you submit online, you will usually see a confirmation number on the screen. Write it down or take a screenshot. Some states send a confirmation email; others do not. The address change usually takes effect immediately in the DMV's system, even though your physical license will not reflect the change until you receive a new one in the mail.
Changing your address by mail or in person
If your state does not offer online changes, you can mail a form to the DMV or visit an office in person. Download the address change form from your state's DMV website, fill it out, and mail it to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of your driver's license and proof of your new address if your state requires it. Mail delivery usually takes one to two weeks, and the DMV may take another one to two weeks to process your request.
If you visit a DMV office in person, bring your driver's license, proof of your new address (if required), and the completed form. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require an appointment. Check your state's website to see whether you need to book a time slot. Processing usually happens the same day if you visit in person, though you may wait in line.
What happens after you submit your change
Your address change takes effect in the DMV system within one to two weeks, whether you submitted it online, by mail, or in person. However, the physical license in your wallet will not change until you receive a new one in the mail. Some states mail you a completely new license with your updated address. Other states mail you a sticker to place over your old address on your current license.
The new license or sticker usually arrives within two to four weeks, though timing varies by state and by how busy the DMV is. Until it arrives, your old license is still valid for identification and driving. If you move again before the new license arrives, contact the DMV with your forwarding address so the mail reaches you.
If you need the change done quickly
If you need proof of your new address immediately, ask the DMV office for a printed confirmation or receipt when you submit your change in person. Some offices print a temporary address confirmation that you can use until your new license arrives. Online submissions usually generate a confirmation number you can screenshot or print.
If your state requires a new license to reflect your address and you cannot wait for the mail, visit a DMV office in person and ask whether they can issue a replacement license on the spot. Some states charge a small fee for a replacement license issued the same day. Others require you to wait for the mailed version. Call your local DMV office before you visit to ask what they can do.
Changing your address on your vehicle registration at the same time
Your vehicle registration is separate from your driver's license, and you may need to update both. Some states update your registration address automatically when you change your license address. Others require you to report the change separately to the DMV's vehicle registration section. Check your state's DMV website to see whether you need to take a separate step for registration.
If you need to update your registration address, you can usually do it online, by mail, or in person using the same methods as your license. Some states combine the two forms into one; others keep them separate. Your registration renewal notice will be mailed to your new address once the change takes effect, usually within two to four weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay a fee to change my address?
Most states do not charge a fee for an address change. A few states charge a small fee (usually under $10) if you request a replacement license with your new address printed on it. Online and mail-in changes are almost always free. Call your state DMV to confirm whether your state charges a fee.
What if I move before my new license arrives?
Contact your state DMV with your forwarding address as soon as you move. Provide your license number and the new address where mail should be sent. The DMV will update their mailing address so your new license reaches you. If the license was already mailed, the post office may forward it if you filed a change of address with them.
Can I change my address online if I have a commercial driver's license?
Most states allow commercial driver's license holders to change their address online through the same system as regular licenses. However, a few states require commercial license holders to visit an office in person. Check your state's DMV website or call to confirm whether online changes are available for your license type.
Do I need to change my address with the police or my city?
No. The DMV is the only agency you need to notify about a driver's license address change. You may want to update your address with your voter registration, insurance company, and bank separately, but those are not required for your license.
What if my new address is in a different state?
If you move to a different state, you will need to get a new driver's license from that state. You cannot simply change the address on your current license. Visit your new state's DMV office or website to learn how to get a license there. You may be able to surrender your old license and receive a new one the same day, or you may need to wait for it to arrive by mail.