What You Need to Do to Update Your Address

You can change your address on your California driver's license or ID card in person at a DMV office, by mail, or online through the DMV website if you meet certain conditions. The fastest method is online if your license or ID is not expired and you have a valid email address on file. If you cannot use the online option, you can visit a DMV office with proof of your new address, or mail a completed form with supporting documents.

Your address must match what the DMV has in their system for your driver's license or ID card to be valid. If you move and do not update your address, your license remains tied to your old location, which can cause problems if you are pulled over, need to renew your license, or use your ID for other purposes.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your address online at dmv.ca.gov if your license or ID is current and you have a valid email address registered with the DMV.
  • In-person changes at a DMV office require proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
  • Mail-in address changes require Form DL 43 or Form ID 43, a copy of your license or ID, and proof of your new address.
  • Online address changes are processed within one to two business days, while mail takes one to two weeks after the DMV receives your documents.
  • You do not need to pay a fee to change your address on an existing, valid license or ID card.

Changing Your Address Online

The online method is the quickest option if you are may be able to access. Go to dmv.ca.gov, select "Online Services," and choose the address change option. You will need your driver's license or ID number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. You must also have a valid email address on file with the DMV.

Your license or ID card cannot be expired, and you cannot have any holds or suspensions on your driving record. If you meet these conditions, you can complete the change in a few minutes. The DMV will send a confirmation email, and your address will be updated in their system within one to two business days. You do not receive a new card in the mail for an address-only change—your current card remains valid with the updated address in the DMV database.

Changing Your Address in Person at a DMV Office

Visit any DMV office with your current driver's license or ID card and proof of your new address. Proof of address must be an original document (not a copy) dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail addressed to you at your new location.

Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a Social Security card or tax return. If your name has changed since your license was issued, bring a document proving the legal change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. The DMV staff will update your address on the spot, and there is no fee. Your current license or ID remains valid, and the address change is recorded when ready in the DMV system.

Changing Your Address by Mail

Complete Form DL 43 (process for Duplicate or Corrected Driver's License or Identification Card) or Form ID 43, depending on whether you hold a driver's license or ID card. You can read these forms from dmv.ca.gov or pick one up at a DMV office. Fill out the form with your new address and sign it.

Include a copy of your current driver's license or ID card (front and back) and an original proof of your new address dated within the last 60 days. Mail the completed form, copy of your card, and proof of address to the DMV address listed on the form. Processing takes one to two weeks after the DMV receives your documents. There is no fee for an address change on a valid, current license or ID card.

What Counts as Proof of Your New Address

The DMV accepts original documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common proof. Other acceptable documents include a lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, vehicle registration, or official government mail such as a tax notice or voter registration card.

The document must be in your name and show your full street address, city, state, and ZIP code. A PO box is not accepted as a residential address for DMV purposes. If you have recently moved and do not yet have a document in your name at the new address, ask your utility company, landlord, or mortgage lender for a letter on official letterhead confirming your new address and move-in date.

Timeline and What Happens After You Submit Your Change

Online changes are processed within one to two business days. In-person changes are recorded when ready. Mail-in changes take one to two weeks from the date the DMV receives your documents, depending on mail delivery time and DMV processing volume.

Once your address is updated, it appears in the DMV database right away. You do not receive a new physical card for an address-only change—your current license or ID card is still valid. When you renew your license or ID in the future, the new card will be mailed to your updated address. If you need a replacement card with your new address printed on it before your renewal date, you can request a duplicate card, though there is a fee for that service.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not submit a photocopy of your proof of address document—the DMV requires an original. Do not use a PO box as your address; the DMV requires a physical street address. Do not assume your address has been changed without confirmation; check your online DMV account or wait for the confirmation email if you submitted the change online.

If you are mailing your change, do not forget to include a copy of both sides of your license or ID card. Do not send cash or checks through the mail; address changes are free, so you should not be paying anything. If you have an active suspension or hold on your driving record, you cannot change your address online—you must visit a DMV office or mail your request, and the address change will not clear the suspension.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get a new card with my new address printed on it?

No. An address-only change does not result in a new card. Your current license or ID card remains valid, and your new address is recorded in the DMV system. When you renew your license or ID at its expiration date, the new card will be mailed to your updated address and will show the new address on the front.

How long does it take to change my address by mail?

Mail-in changes typically take one to two weeks after the DMV receives your documents. This includes time for mail delivery to the DMV and their processing time. Online changes are faster—usually one to two business days. In-person changes are recorded when ready.

What if I do not have a utility bill or lease to prove my new address?

You can use other documents such as a mortgage statement, property tax bill, homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, vehicle registration, or official government mail. If you have just moved and do not have any documents in your name yet, contact your utility company, landlord, or mortgage lender and ask for a letter on official letterhead confirming your new address and move-in date.

Can I change my address online if my license is expired?

No. Online address changes require a current, valid license or ID card. If your license or ID is expired, you must visit a DMV office in person or mail your request using Form DL 43 or Form ID 43 with proof of your new address.

Is there a fee to change my address?

No. Changing your address on a valid, current driver's license or ID card is free. You only pay a fee if you request a duplicate card with your new address printed on it before your renewal date.