What you need to do to change your address on your ID

To change the address on your driver's license or state ID card, you visit your state's DMV office in person, bring proof of your new address, and submit a form. The DMV will issue you a new card with the updated address printed on it. You do not need to pass a test or take a new photo unless your state requires it as part of their standard ID renewal process.

The exact documents you need and the fee you pay depend on which state you live in. Some states charge nothing for an address change; others charge $10 to $30. Some states mail your new card; others hand it to you the same day. The one constant is that you must appear in person — you cannot change your address online or by mail in any state.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DMV office in person with proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
  • Bring your current driver's license or ID card and fill out the address change form, which varies by state but is usually free or costs under $30.
  • Some states issue your new card on the spot; others mail it within one to two weeks, so plan accordingly if you need it for travel or identification.
  • If you moved out of state, you will need to get a new license from your new state's DMV rather than straightforward updating your address.

Documents you need to bring

Bring your current driver's license or state ID card. You will also need one document that proves your new address. The DMV accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, and government mail — anything with your name and current address printed on it. Most states require the document to be dated within the last 30 to 60 days, so a recent bill works better than an old one.

If you do not have a document in your name yet, some states will accept a letter from your landlord or a notarized statement confirming your address. Call your local DMV office before you go to ask what they will accept in your situation, because rules vary by state and sometimes by individual office.

Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a Social Security card or tax return. Some states also ask for proof of citizenship or legal residency if you are not a U.S. citizen, though a valid driver's license usually satisfies this.

The form you fill out and what it costs

Every state has an address change form, though the name and number differ. California calls it the DL 43; New York calls it the MV-232; Texas calls it the DL-43. You can read most forms from your state's DMV website before you go, or you can fill one out at the office. The form asks for your current address, your new address, and your signature.

The fee ranges from free to $30 depending on your state. Some states charge nothing for an address change but charge a small fee if you also want a new photo or a replacement card. A few states charge a fee only if you are renewing your license at the same time. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to know the exact cost.

How long it takes and when you get your new card

If your state issues cards on site, you will walk out with your new ID the same day. If your state mails cards, expect to wait one to three weeks. During that time, your old card with the old address is still valid for identification purposes, so you can use it if you need to prove who you are.

Some states send your new card to the address you provided; others mail it to the address on file from your previous transaction. Ask the DMV clerk before you leave which address they are mailing to, so you know where to expect it.

If you moved to a different state

You cannot straightforward change the address on your current license. You must get a new driver's license or ID card from your new state's DMV. Most states require you to surrender your old license when you explore for the new one, though some let you keep it.

Your new state may have different requirements — different documents, different fees, different rules about vision tests or written tests. Some states require you to pass a written test even if you already have a valid license from another state. Check your new state's DMV website to see what you need before you go.

Scams and safety alerts

Do not pay anyone online to change your address for you. The DMV does not have an official online service for address changes, and any website claiming to be an official DMV portal is likely a scam. Scammers charge $50 to $200 to submit a form that you can submit yourself for free or a small fee.

If you receive an email or text saying your license has expired or your address is invalid and asking you to click a link, do not click it. The DMV does not contact people by email or text about address changes. Go directly to your state's official DMV website by typing the address into your browser yourself, or call the DMV phone number listed on your current license.

Be cautious about sharing your Social Security number or license number over the phone unless you initiated the call to the DMV's official number. Scammers sometimes call pretending to be from the DMV and ask for personal information.

What to do if you have moved multiple times

If you have moved several times since your license was issued, you only need to update it to your current address. The DMV does not require you to list every address you have lived at — only the one you live at now. Bring proof of your current address and follow the same process as anyone else.

If you have moved recently and are not sure whether your address change has been processed, call your local DMV office or check your state's DMV website. Some states let you look up your license information online to confirm what address is on file.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online?

No state allows you to change your address online. You must visit a DMV office in person. Some states let you renew your license online if it is not expiring soon, but address changes always require an in-person visit.

Do I need a new photo when I change my address?

No. An address change does not require a new photo. Your new card will use the photo from your current license. If you want a new photo, you can usually request one, but it may cost extra or require you to renew your license early.

What if I do not have a utility bill or lease in my name yet?

Call your local DMV office and ask what documents they will accept. Many offices accept a notarized letter from your landlord, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement. Some accept mail from a government agency addressed to you at your new address.

Can I change my address at a different DMV office than the one in my county?

Most states let you visit any DMV office, but some require you to go to the office that serves your county or region. Call ahead or check your state's website to confirm. If you can go to any office, choose one that is convenient for you.

What happens if I move before my new card arrives?

If your new card is mailed to an address you no longer live at, contact the DMV when ready. They may be able to reissue it to your new address or hold it for you to pick up at an office. Do not ignore mail from the DMV, as it may contain your new card or important information.