Georgia DMV address changes happen online, by mail, or in person — and the fastest route depends on your license type

The Georgia Department of Driver Services lets you change your address without renewing your license. You can do it through their website in minutes, mail in a form, or visit a local office. The method you choose depends on whether you have a standard license, a Real ID, a commercial license, or an ID card — and whether you need the change reflected when ready or can wait for mail processing.

Georgia does not charge a fee for address changes. Your new address takes effect right away if you update online, or within 7 to 10 business days if you mail the form or visit an office in person.

Key Takeaways

  • The Georgia DDS website is the fastest method — you can change your address in under five minutes if you have your license number and date of birth.
  • You do not need to renew your license to change your address, and there is no fee for the change.
  • If you cannot use the online system, you can mail Form DL 43 or visit any Georgia DDS office with your current license and proof of your new address.
  • Your new address appears on your license when ready online, but physical mail showing the change takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive.
  • If you have a Real ID or commercial license, you may have additional requirements — check the DDS website before you start.

Changing your address online through the Georgia DDS website

Go to dds.georgia.gov and select "Change Address" from the main menu. You will need your current Georgia driver's license or ID card number, your date of birth, and your new address. The system will verify your identity and process the change in real time.

Once you complete the online form, your address change is recorded when ready in the Georgia system. You will receive a confirmation email. A physical card showing your new address will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days — you do not need to do anything else to receive it.

The online system works for standard driver's licenses and ID cards. If you hold a Real ID, a commercial driver's license (CDL), or a hazmat endorsement, check the DDS website first to confirm whether your license type can be updated online or requires a visit to an office.

Mailing a form to update your address

read or request Form DL 43 (process for Georgia Driver's License or ID Card) from the Georgia DDS website. You only need to fill in the address section — do not submit the entire form. Include your current license number and sign the form.

Mail the completed form to the address listed on the DDS website. Include a copy of proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days from the date the office receives your envelope.

Keep a copy of what you mail for your records. If you do not receive your updated card within two weeks, contact the DDS to confirm they received your form.

Visiting a Georgia DDS office in person

Bring your current Georgia driver's license or ID card and one document proving your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day.

The office staff will update your address on the spot. Your new address takes effect when ready in the system, and you will receive your updated card by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Some offices can issue a temporary address verification letter if you need proof of the change before your card arrives.

Find your nearest Georgia DDS office on their website by entering your city or zip code. Office hours and services vary, so check before you go — some locations handle address changes, while others handle only renewals or testing.

What counts as proof of your new address

Georgia accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. These include utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, bank or credit card statements, and government mail from federal, state, or local agencies.

Apartment lease agreements work even if they are not yet dated — bring the signed copy. If your name does not appear on a utility bill or lease (for example, if a spouse's name is on it), bring that document plus a second form of ID showing your name. A driver's license from another state counts as a second form of ID.

Do not bring a post office change-of-address form — the DDS does not accept it as proof of residence. If you have just moved and do not yet have a document in your name at the new address, call your local DDS office to ask about alternatives.

Real ID and commercial license address changes

If you hold a Real ID (marked with a gold or silver star), you can change your address online or by mail using the same methods as a standard license. However, if your Real ID is expiring within 60 days, you may need to renew it instead of just changing the address — check the DDS website or call your local office to confirm.

If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), address changes must be done in person at a Georgia DDS office. Bring your CDL, proof of your new address, and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. The office will update your address and mail you a new card within 7 to 10 business days.

Hazmat endorsements and other special endorsements follow the same rules as CDLs — they require an in-person visit. If you are unsure whether your license type can be changed online, call the DDS before you start.

Timeline and what to expect after you submit your change

Your address change takes effect in the Georgia system when ready if you update online, or within one business day if you visit an office or mail a form. However, your physical card with the new address is printed and mailed separately and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

During this waiting period, your old card is still valid — you can use it for identification. If you need proof that your address has been changed before your new card arrives, visit a DDS office and ask for a temporary address verification letter. Some offices issue these on the spot at no charge.

If your new card does not arrive within 14 business days, contact the Georgia DDS. Have your confirmation email or receipt ready, along with your license number and date of birth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address if I move to a new city in Georgia?

You are not legally required to change your address when ready, but you should do it within a reasonable time. If you are stopped by police or pulled over, an out-of-date address can cause confusion. For insurance and vehicle registration purposes, your address should match your driver's license.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

No. Your license must be valid to change your address online or by mail. If your license is expired, you will need to renew it first. Visit a Georgia DDS office with your expired license, proof of your new address, and the required documents for renewal.

What if I moved out of state — do I still need to notify Georgia?

If you no longer live in Georgia, you should obtain a driver's license in your new state instead of changing your Georgia address. Once you have a valid license in your new state, you can let your Georgia license expire. If you still need your Georgia license for any reason, you can update the address to your new state address online or by mail.

How long does it take to get my new card if I change my address online?

Your address change is recorded when ready in the Georgia system, but your physical card is mailed separately and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. If you need proof of the address change before your card arrives, visit a DDS office and ask for a temporary verification letter.

Can I change my address without visiting an office or going online?

Yes. You can mail Form DL 43 with proof of your new address to the Georgia DDS. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days from the date they receive your envelope. Include a copy of a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.