How to Change Your Address With the South Carolina DMV

You can change your South Carolina driver's license or ID card address online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you cannot go online, mail-in takes 7 to 10 business days, and in-person is when ready but requires a trip to your local office.

South Carolina does not mail you a new card when you change your address online. Your license remains valid, and the DMV's records update within one business day. If you need a replacement card with your new address printed on it, you can order one online for $10 or get one in person at an office.

Key Takeaways

The South Carolina DMV's online address change tool is free and updates your record by the next business day without mailing a new card.
You can change your address online at scdmvonline.com using your driver's license or ID number and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
If you prefer mail or in-person service, bring proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works.
A replacement card with your new address printed on it costs $10 online or can be ordered at any DMV office.
Your current license stays valid after an address change; you do not need a new one unless you want the updated address printed on the card itself.

Changing Your Address Online

The South Carolina DMV's online system, scdmvonline.com, is the fastest route. Go to the site, select "Change Address," and enter your driver's license or ID number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The system confirms the change when ready and updates the DMV's records by the next business day.

You do not need to upload documents or pay a fee. Your current license remains valid at your old address — the DMV straightforward updates its internal records. If you want a card printed with your new address, you can order a replacement for $10 through the same online system or wait and order one at an office visit.

Changing Your Address by Mail

To change your address by mail, print the Form DL-43 from the DMV website or request it by phone at 803-896-5000. Fill in your current license number, new address, and sign the form. Include a copy of proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

Mail the completed form and proof to the South Carolina DMV, P.O. Box 1498, Blythewood, SC 29016. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days. Like the online method, this updates your record without mailing a new card. If you want a replacement card with your new address, include a check or money order for $10 made payable to "SCDMV."

Changing Your Address in Person

Visit any South Carolina DMV office with proof of your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. Bring your current driver's license or ID card.

The office staff will update your address on the spot, and your record changes when ready. There is no fee for the address change itself. If you want a replacement card printed with your new address, you can order one at the office for $10 and receive it by mail in 7 to 10 business days, or pay an extra $5 for expedited delivery.

What Counts as Proof of Your New Address

South Carolina accepts several documents as proof of address, and they must be dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common. A lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill also works. Bank statements, credit card statements, and government correspondence with your name and new address are acceptable too.

The document must show your full name and the complete new address. A post office change-of-address form does not count as proof. If you are moving into a new home and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your occupancy and move-in date.

Timelines and When Your Change Takes Effect

Online changes update within one business day. Mail-in changes take 7 to 10 business days from the date the DMV receives your form. In-person changes are when ready — your record updates while you wait.

Your current license remains valid at your old address during this entire process. You do not need to carry proof of the address change or a receipt. If you ordered a replacement card, it arrives by mail 7 to 10 business days after your request, or 5 to 7 business days with expedited delivery.

Replacing Your Card With Your New Address

A replacement card costs $10 and can be ordered online at scdmvonline.com, by mail with Form DL-43, or in person at any DMV office. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. If you need the card faster, expedited delivery costs an additional $5 and takes 5 to 7 business days.

You do not have to order a replacement card. Your current license is valid indefinitely at your old address, and the DMV's records show your new address. Many people straightforward update their address in the system and keep their old card until it expires or they need a replacement for another reason.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to get a new card when I move?

No. Your current license stays valid. The DMV updates its records with your new address, but the card itself does not change. You only need a replacement card if you want the new address printed on it.

What if I do not have a utility bill yet at my new address?

A lease agreement, mortgage statement, or signed letter from your landlord dated within the last 60 days works. If none of those are available, contact your local DMV office — they may accept other documents depending on your situation.

Can I change my address online if I have a commercial driver's license?

Yes, the online system works for both standard licenses and CDLs. Use the same process at scdmvonline.com with your license number and last four digits of your Social Security number.

How long does the online address change take?

The system confirms your change when ready, and the DMV updates its records by the next business day. You do not receive a confirmation email, but you can log back into scdmvonline.com to verify the change went through.

What if I move out of state?

You will need to get a driver's license or ID from your new state. Contact that state's DMV for their process. South Carolina's address change system only works for addresses within South Carolina.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.