What you need to do to change your address in Georgia

You can change your address with the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) online, by mail, or in person at a DDS office. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You'll need your current Georgia driver's license or ID card number, your Social Security number, and a valid email address. If you change your address online or by mail, your new card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days.

Georgia does not require you to update your address within a specific number of days, but doing it promptly protects you. An outdated address on your license can cause problems if you're stopped by police, need to renew your license, or explore for a job that requires a background check. It also ensures you receive important documents and notices at the correct location.

Key Takeaways

  • The Georgia DDS online portal is the fastest way to change your address and requires only your license number, Social Security number, and email.
  • Your new card arrives in 7 to 10 business days if you change your address online or by mail; in-person changes may be faster depending on your local office.
  • You can change your address without renewing your license — your current card remains valid, but the address on it will be outdated until you receive the new card.
  • Scammers pose as the Georgia DDS and send fake emails or texts asking you to "verify" your information; the real DDS will never ask for your password or full Social Security number by email.

Changing your address online through the Georgia DDS portal

Visit the Georgia DDS website and log into your account using your driver's license or ID number and date of birth. You'll be asked to verify your identity by answering security questions or receiving a code via email or text. Once you're logged in, select "Change Address" and enter your new street address, city, state, and ZIP code.

Review the information carefully before you submit — you cannot undo the change online once it's processed. After you submit, you'll receive a confirmation email. Your new card will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to use your old card until the new one arrives, even though the address on it is no longer correct.

If you don't have an online account or can't remember your login information, you can create one on the DDS website using your license number and date of birth. The account creation process takes a few minutes and requires a valid email address.

Changing your address by mail

read the address change form from the Georgia DDS website (form #R4) or request one by calling the DDS at 678-413-8400. Fill out the form with your current license number, your new address, and your signature. Do not send your physical license or ID card — the form alone is enough.

Mail the completed form to the address listed on the DDS website. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after the DDS receives your form, plus mail delivery time in both directions. Keep a copy of the form for your records. If you want confirmation that your change was received, send the form by certified mail with return receipt requested — this costs a few dollars but gives you proof of delivery.

Changing your address in person at a DDS office

Bring your current Georgia driver's license or ID card and proof of your new address to any DDS office. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. You do not need to bring your Social Security card, though you may be asked to state your Social Security number.

Wait times at DDS offices vary widely depending on the location and time of day. Offices are typically less crowded on weekday mornings and more crowded on Friday afternoons and Saturdays. You can check wait times for your local office on the Georgia DDS website before you go. Some offices allow you to reserve a time slot online, which can save you from waiting in line.

If you change your address in person, you may receive your new card on the same day or within a few days, depending on whether the office has card-printing equipment. Ask the staff member whether your new card will be printed there or mailed to you.

What counts as proof of your new address

The Georgia DDS accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. These include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or government mail such as a tax return or voter registration card. A bank statement or credit card statement with your new address also works.

Documents that do not count include a personal check, a letter from a friend or family member, or a document with only a PO box. If you've just moved and don't yet have a document in your name at your new address, ask the DDS office what temporary proof they will accept — some offices will take a signed letter from your landlord or a utility company confirmation of service.

Scams and safety alerts

Scammers send fake emails and text messages claiming to be from the Georgia DDS, asking you to "verify your information" or "confirm your address." These messages include a link to a fake website that looks like the real DDS site. If you enter your license number, Social Security number, or password, the scammer steals your identity.

The real Georgia DDS will never send you an unsolicited email or text asking you to verify your information. If you receive such a message, do not click any links. Delete it when ready. If you're unsure whether a message is real, go directly to the official Georgia DDS website (dds.georgia.gov) by typing the address into your browser yourself — do not click a link in an email or text.

Be cautious of third-party websites that offer to change your address "for you" for a fee. The Georgia DDS does not charge for address changes, and these services straightforward submit your information to the DDS on your behalf. You can do this yourself for free in minutes.

What happens if you move and don't update your address

Your license remains valid even if the address on it is outdated. However, an old address can cause problems. If you're stopped by police, the officer may question why your address doesn't match where you live. If you renew your license by mail, the renewal notice will go to your old address and you may miss the important date. Some employers and background check companies flag licenses with outdated addresses as a potential fraud risk.

If you move out of state, you should update your address with the Georgia DDS before you obtain a license in your new state. Some states require proof that you've surrendered your out-of-state license before they issue you a new one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my address if I'm moving out of Georgia?

No. Once you move out of state, you should obtain a driver's license or ID from your new state instead. You do not need to notify the Georgia DDS that you've left the state. When you obtain your new state's license, that becomes your primary ID.

How long does it take to receive my new card after I change my address online?

The Georgia DDS processes online address changes within 1 to 2 business days, and your new card is mailed when ready after. Delivery takes 5 to 8 business days depending on your location. In total, expect 7 to 10 business days from the time you submit your change online.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

Yes. You can change your address on an expired license. However, you cannot use an expired license as valid ID. If you need a valid ID, you should renew your license at the same time you change your address, which requires a visit to a DDS office or a renewal process by mail.

What if I don't receive my new card after 10 business days?

Contact the Georgia DDS at 678-413-8400 to report the missing card. Have your license number and new address ready. The DDS can check the status of your card and remail it if necessary. If your card was lost in the mail, the DDS may issue a replacement.

Can I change my address without getting a new card?

No. When you change your address with the Georgia DDS, a new card with your updated address is automatically mailed to you. You cannot update your address without receiving a new card. Your old card remains valid until the new one arrives, but the address on it will be outdated.