How to Change Your Address at the DMV in Minnesota

Moving within Minnesota means updating your address with the state so your driver’s license, ID card, and vehicle records stay accurate. In Minnesota, this isn’t just about mail delivery—it affects your ability to prove residency, receive renewal notices, and keep your registration valid.

This guide walks through how a Minnesota DMV change of address works, what you’ll need, and how to fix common problems.

Minnesota State Verification: Who Handles What

In Minnesota, DMV services are handled through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS), specifically the Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) division.

In Minnesota, this is typically handled in two parts:

• Driver’s licenses and ID cards – handled by DVS driver services offices and many local deputy registrar offices
• Vehicle registration and titles – handled by deputy registrar offices (often called license centers or motor vehicle offices)

Depending on your county in Minnesota, these services might be in the same physical office or in different locations. That means:

• You may need to update your driver’s license/ID address and your vehicle registration address separately
• Not every office handles every service, so you should check that an office offers the service you need before you go

To avoid going to the wrong place, many drivers in Minnesota find it helpful to:

• Search the official Minnesota DPS–DVS website for “office locations” and confirm which office handles driver services vs. motor vehicle services
• Verify whether the office accepts in‑person address changes for licenses, IDs, and vehicle registrations

Why Updating Your Address in Minnesota Matters

In Minnesota, your address on file with DVS affects several key records:

• Driver’s license or ID card

  • Law enforcement and other agencies will see the address printed on your card.
  • Many Minnesota residents use this card to prove residency for voting, school enrollment, or insurance.

• Vehicle registration and title

  • Your registration card and renewal notices are mailed to the address on file.
  • Property tax statements and tab renewal reminders are tied to your address in the Minnesota system.

• Official notices

  • In Minnesota, this is typically handled through mail: DVS sends notices for suspensions, revocations, cancellations, and renewals.
  • If your address is outdated, you may miss critical legal notices, which can lead to problems even if you never received the letter.

Keeping your address current helps you:

• Receive renewal reminders for your license and tabs
• Avoid delayed or lost registration stickers and titles
• Ensure your record matches your real living situation in MN

What You’ll Need for a Minnesota DMV Change of Address

Requirements can vary slightly based on how you update (online, by mail, or in person), but in Minnesota you can generally expect to need:

Basic Information

Have this ready:

• Full legal name
• Date of birth
• Minnesota driver’s license or ID number
• Last four digits of your Social Security number (if requested for identity verification)
• Old address on file
• New Minnesota residential address
  • Apartment or lot number, if applicable
  • City, state (MN), and ZIP code

If you are updating vehicle records, you may also need:

• License plate number
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) (sometimes asked for verification)
• Current registration information (from your registration card)

Proof of Address or Identity

For many routine address changes in Minnesota, the system may simply update your record without requiring you to show documents, especially if you do it online and are not changing your license type.

However, you may be asked for:

• Proof of Minnesota residence, such as:

  • A current lease or rental agreement
  • A recent utility bill
  • A bank or credit card statement
  • A mortgage statement or property tax document

• Proof of identity, such as:

  • Your current Minnesota driver’s license or ID card
  • Other acceptable identity documents listed on the official DVS site

In Minnesota, this is typically handled more strictly if:

• You’re updating a REAL ID or Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL/EID)
• You’re changing both your name and address
• You’re a new resident switching an out-of-state license to Minnesota

Why Address Change Requests Get Rejected

In Minnesota, common reasons a DMV change of address request is rejected include:

• The new address is incomplete or invalid (missing apartment number, wrong ZIP, non‑deliverable rural route)
• The name and license/ID number don’t match the DVS record
• You’re not eligible for online updating (e.g., certain license types, expired license, or problem driver status)
• The address is outside Minnesota, but you’re trying to update a Minnesota license or registration without taking next steps for moving out‑of‑state
• For mailed requests, the form is unsigned or missing required information

To reduce problems, make sure your address:

• Matches USPS format as closely as possible
• Includes unit, lot, or apartment numbers
• Is the address where you actually live or principally garage your vehicle in Minnesota

Step-by-Step Options: How to Change Your Address in Minnesota

Processes occasionally change, so you should always confirm the latest steps on the official Minnesota DPS–DVS site. The sections below describe common approaches many drivers in Minnesota use.

1. Online Address Change (If Eligible)

In Minnesota, DVS offers various online services that may include address updates for some drivers and vehicle owners. You’ll typically access these through the Minnesota DPS–DVS online services portal.

If you’re eligible, you may be able to:

• Update your address in the driver record
• Update your address for vehicle registration records

Depending on the exact service available at the time you apply, an online Minnesota DMV change of address may or may not automatically issue a new license or registration card. Sometimes:

• Your record is updated, but your physical license/ID or registration still shows your old address until you renew or request a duplicate.
• For vehicles, your next renewal notice or new registration card will go to your new address.

Typical Online Steps

1. Go to the official Minnesota DPS–DVS online services page

   • You can usually find this by searching online for “Minnesota DVS online services.”

2. Select the appropriate service

   • Look for options related to driver’s license/ID or vehicle registration.
   • Some portals specifically mention address or personal information updates.

3. Log in or verify your identity

   • Enter your Minnesota driver’s license or ID number.
   • Provide your full name, date of birth, and possibly the last four digits of your Social Security number.

4. Enter your new address

   • Provide your full Minnesota residential address.
   • Add any apartment, lot, or unit number exactly as it appears on your lease or mail.

5. Review and submit

   • Double‑check for spelling and number errors.
   • Confirm the change and submit any required electronic signature.

6. Save or print your confirmation

   • Many online systems generate a confirmation page or email. Keep this until you see that your address has updated and mail begins arriving correctly.

In Minnesota, many drivers find that online updating is the fastest way to ensure renewal notices and future mailings go to the correct place, especially during winter or when offices are busy.

2. In‑Person Address Change

In-person updating is sometimes required, especially if:

• You’re renewing a license or ID and changing your address at the same time
• You’re moving to a REAL ID or Enhanced license/ID and updating your address
• Your license or registration has expired, been suspended, or has other issues
• Your online Minnesota DMV change of address attempt was rejected

In Minnesota, this is typically handled at:

• Driver’s license and ID card offices (for driver-related updates)
• Deputy registrar (motor vehicle) offices (for registration and title records)

Depending on your county in Minnesota, a single office may handle both driver and vehicle transactions; other times you may need to visit two different counters or locations.

How to Update Your Address In Person

1. Find the right office

   • Use the office locator on the official Minnesota DPS–DVS website to confirm:
     • Whether the office handles driver’s license/ID services
     • Whether it handles motor vehicle registration and titles
     • Office hours and whether appointments are required or recommended

2. Gather your documents

   • Your current Minnesota driver’s license or ID card
   • Current vehicle registration card (if updating your vehicle records too)
   • Any documents that may be required to prove your new Minnesota residence or identity, especially for REAL ID or enhanced credentials.

3. Visit the office

   • Take a number or check in for your appointment.
   • Let the clerk know you want to update your address, and clarify whether you:
     • Need a replacement (duplicate) license/ID with the new address printed
     • Are also updating your vehicle registration address

4. Complete any required forms

   • You may be asked to complete a Minnesota DMV change of address form or a more general driver’s license or registration form that includes address change fields.

5. Submit and pay any applicable fees

   • Minnesota may charge a fee if you request a duplicate license, ID, or registration card with the new address.
   • If you are only updating the record without printing a new card, any fee structure may differ; always confirm with the office.

6. Receive your temporary or receipt

   • For licenses, you may receive a temporary paper license while your new card is produced and mailed to your updated address.
   • For vehicle registrations, you may receive a new card or updated documents, or they may be mailed.

In Minnesota, many drivers find that combining an address change with a scheduled renewal (for their license or tabs) is the most efficient way to handle both at once.

3. Address Change by Mail (If Available)

In some cases, Minnesota may allow address changes by mail, especially for vehicle registrations or when you are already returning a form, such as a renewal notice. Availability and requirements can change, so you should check the instructions on any form or notice you receive.

A mailed address change might involve:

• Completing a specific change of address area on your renewal notice
• Filling out a Minnesota DMV change of address form (if provided by DVS)
• Mailing it to the address printed on the form or notice

Typical steps:

1. Review your renewal notice or official DVS form carefully

   • Look for any section titled “Change of Address” or similar.
   • Follow the exact instructions printed.

2. Enter your new address clearly

   • Print legibly with dark ink.
   • Include all required details, such as apartment number or PO box (if allowed) and ZIP code.

3. Mail the form

   • Use the address listed on the notice or form.
   • Consider using a traceable mailing method if time‑sensitive.

4. Watch for updated mail

   • Monitor your new address to ensure you receive updated registration, license documents, or future renewal notices.

If the mailed request does not appear to go through, you may need to follow up online or in person.

Do License and Registration Update Together in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, updating your address for:

• Driver’s license or ID
• Vehicle registration and title

is often treated as separate actions, even if both records are held in the DVS system.

• Updating the address on your license or ID does not always automatically update your vehicle registration address.
• Updating your vehicle registration address does not always update the address on your driver record.

When you move inside Minnesota, it’s wise to check:

• That your driver’s license/ID record shows your correct address
• That each vehicle you own has the correct registration address

Many drivers in Minnesota find it helpful to keep a simple checklist:

After You Submit Your Minnesota Address Change

Once you submit your address change—online, in person, or by mail—here is what usually happens.

Confirmation

• Online: You may see an on‑screen confirmation and/or receive an email. Save or print it.
• In person: You will typically receive a receipt for your transaction.
• By mail: You may not receive an immediate confirmation, so watch for future mail sent to your new address.

In Minnesota, this is typically handled by updating your electronic record first; the physical card or title may follow later if you ordered a new one.

New Card, Sticker, or Documents

Depending on what you did:

• Driver’s license/ID:

  • If you requested a duplicate card with your new address, the state will process and mail it to the new address on file.
  • If you only updated the record, your physical card might still show the old address until your next renewal or replacement.

• Vehicle registration:

  • If your update was combined with a tab renewal, you should receive updated registration documents and tabs at your new address.
  • If you only updated the address, the next card or renewal notice will go to the new address.

Timing

Processing times can vary by season and workload. Rural areas in Minnesota and addresses in more remote parts of MN may experience slightly longer mail delivery times, so you may want to:

• Keep your confirmation until you receive the new card or notice
• Check your address in the online system, if available, to verify it’s correct

Special Situations for Minnesota Address Changes

Certain groups in Minnesota have extra considerations when changing their address.

Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDL)

CDL holders in Minnesota must keep their driving and medical records accurate.

• CDL address changes are often more restricted and may not be fully handled online.
• You may be required to update in person at a DVS office that processes CDL transactions.
• If you use your CDL for interstate commerce, your address must reflect where you actually reside and receive important notices.

Because CDL rules can be more complex, Minnesota drivers with commercial licenses should check CDL‑specific guidance on the official DVS website or ask at a CDL‑serving office before making changes.

Military Members

If you are active‑duty military with a Minnesota license:

• You may be stationed outside Minnesota but still hold a Minnesota license or registration.
• When changing addresses, consider:
  • Whether the new address is a temporary duty station or your permanent legal residence.
  • Whether your vehicle remains garaged in Minnesota or in another state.

In Minnesota, this is typically handled by reviewing whether you’re retaining Minnesota as your home state for licensing and tax purposes. It may be safest to:

• Contact DVS and explain your military status and location.
• Ask how best to keep your records compliant while serving out of state.

College Students

If you are a Minnesota resident attending school in-state or out-of-state:

• You may split time between a campus address and a family home.
• You can only have one official address on your Minnesota license and registration.

Students in Minnesota often choose to:

• Use the address where they primarily live and receive important mail during the year.
• Confirm with their insurance company how a campus address affects their policy.

New Residents to Minnesota (Moving from Another State)

If you’ve moved to Minnesota from another state:

• You generally cannot simply “change the address” on your old out‑of‑state license.
• Instead, you typically need to:
  • Apply for a Minnesota driver’s license or ID, and
  • Transfer your vehicle registration and title to Minnesota, if you bring a car with you.

In Minnesota, this is typically handled at driver services offices and deputy registrars that process out‑of‑state transfers. Address change is built into that new application, so your Minnesota records will start with your new MN address.

PO Boxes and Rural Routes

In some parts of Minnesota, especially rural areas, residents rely on:

• PO Boxes, or
• Rural route addresses

Key points:

• DVS often requires a physical residential address for your driver record, even if your mailing address is a PO Box.
• Many Minnesotans list:
  • A physical (residential) address for their legal record, and
  • A mailing address (such as a PO Box) to actually receive mail.

Depending on your county in Minnesota, offices may ask you to list both if they differ. Check that both are clearly indicated and not swapped by mistake.

Changing Both Name and Address

If you are changing both your name and address (for example, after marriage or divorce):

• Minnesota usually requires supporting documents for the name change, like:

  • A marriage certificate
  • A divorce decree
  • A court order

• Because name changes tend to require original documents and in‑person verification, you may need to visit a DVS office instead of using online services.

In Minnesota, many people choose to combine:

• Name change,
• Address change, and
• License renewal or REAL ID/EDL upgrade

in a single in‑person visit, to avoid multiple trips.

Troubleshooting: When Your Minnesota Address Change Doesn’t Go Through

Even when you follow the rules, issues can come up. Here’s how to handle common problems with a DMV change of address Minnesota residents may encounter.

1. Online Address Change Rejected

If the online system will not accept your address change:

• Check your entries carefully

  • Verify your license/ID number, date of birth, and name exactly as shown on your card.
  • Confirm that your new address is complete and valid (use USPS lookup if needed).

• Review eligibility

  • You may be ineligible for online changes if:
    • Your license is expired or suspended
    • You hold certain CDL or specialty licenses
    • You are switching to a REAL ID or Enhanced license

• Try a different browser or device

  • Technical issues sometimes prevent submissions.

If it still fails, many drivers in Minnesota find it fastest to visit a DVS office or deputy registrar in person with their documents.

2. Submitted, But Not Updated

If you submitted a change (online or by mail) but your address isn’t showing as updated:

• Wait a reasonable period for processing and mail delivery.
• Check your record again if there is an online lookup option for your license or vehicle registration.
• If enough time has passed and it’s still wrong:
  • Bring your confirmation or receipt to a DVS or deputy registrar office.
  • Explain the situation and ask them to verify your address in the system.

In Minnesota, this is typically handled by staff reviewing your electronic record and manually correcting any issues.

3. Rejected Request

If DVS explicitly rejects your address change:

• Read any letter or email carefully
  • It may explain:
    • Which field was incorrect
    • Whether they need more documentation
    • Whether you must appear in person

Common fixes:

• Provide additional documentation of residency or identity
• Correct typos in your address (like wrong ZIP or missing apartment number)
• Resolve underlying issues (such as a suspended license) before reapplying

Depending on your county in Minnesota, local offices may be able to explain the specific reason for rejection more clearly than a generic notice.

4. License Updated, But Registration Didn’t (or Vice Versa)

This is common when address updates are treated separately.

If your license/ID address is correct, but your registration documents still show the old address:

• Contact or visit a deputy registrar/motor vehicle office.
• Ask them to confirm and update your vehicle record, and request new registration documents if needed.

If your registration address is correct, but your license/ID still shows the old address:

• Visit a driver’s license/ID office or check whether you can:
  • Update online, and/or
  • Order a duplicate license/ID with the new address.

For a complete fix, many residents in Minnesota make sure both records are updated before their next renewal or major transaction.

5. Moved Out of Minnesota

If you moved out of Minnesota to another state:

• Typically, you will:

  • Obtain a new driver’s license in your new state, and
  • Register your vehicles there following that state’s rules.

• Your Minnesota license and registration will no longer be your primary credentials. You generally do not maintain a Minnesota address change solely for records if you have fully relocated.

However, you may still receive Minnesota-related mail (like final tax statements or notices) for a short time. If you suspect Minnesota DVS still has your old address:

• Contact them and explain that you have moved out of state and now hold a different state’s license/registration.
• Ask if any additional steps are recommended to close out or update your Minnesota record.

How to Safely Find Official Minnesota DVS Information

Because rules, forms, and eligibility for online services can change, it’s important to get your final instructions from official sources.

You can safely find current information by:

• Going to the official Minnesota state website (look for “.gov” in the address).
• Searching within that site for terms like:
  • “Minnesota DVS change of address”
  • “Driver and Vehicle Services online services”
  • “DVS office locations”

A commonly used official entry point is:

• Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services:
  https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs

From there, navigate to drivers, vehicles, or online services depending on what you need to update.

Keeping your address up to date with Minnesota DVS helps ensure your license, ID, and vehicle records match where you actually live and receive mail. Whether you choose to update online, in person, or by mail, confirm that both your driver’s record and each vehicle’s registration reflect your new Minnesota address. If anything seems off, bring your confirmation and visit or contact DVS so they can correct your record before your next renewal or important notice.