Virginia DMV contact information and online services

The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) handles driver's licenses, vehicle registration, and title transfers. You can reach them by phone at 1-800-435-5133 (toll-free within Virginia) or 804-367-0538 (from outside the state). The main website is dmvnow.com, where you can complete many transactions without visiting an office.

Virginia's DMV operates a network of local offices across the state. You can find the office nearest you and check wait times on dmvnow.com before you go. Many transactions—including address changes for your driver's license and vehicle registration—can be done online or by mail, which often takes less time than an in-person visit.

Key Takeaways

  • Virginia allows you to change your driver's license address online through dmvnow.com without visiting an office or paying a fee.
  • Vehicle registration address changes can be completed online, by mail, or in person, and the process typically takes 5 to 10 business days.
  • You must update your address within a specific timeframe after moving; Virginia law requires notification within a reasonable time of a change of residence.
  • Virginia offers a Real ID-compliant driver's license and identification card, which requires proof of residency at your new address if you are renewing or updating your information.

Changing your driver's license address online

Virginia's online address change system is one of the fastest options available. Go to dmvnow.com, select "Change Address," and log in with your driver's license number and date of birth. You will need to provide your new address and confirm your current information. The change takes effect when ready in the DMV system, though your physical license will still show the old address until it expires and you renew it.

There is no fee for changing your address online. You do not need to visit an office, mail anything, or provide additional documents. If you prefer not to use the online system, you can also change your address by phone at 1-800-435-5133 or in person at any DMV office.

Updating your vehicle registration address

Vehicle registration address changes in Virginia can be done online, by mail, or at a DMV office. The online method is the quickest: visit dmvnow.com, select "Vehicle Services," and choose "Change Address." You will need your vehicle's license plate number and registration card. The change is processed within 5 to 10 business days, and you will receive a new registration card by mail at your new address.

If you prefer to mail the change, send a completed form to the address listed on your registration card, along with your current registration card. You can also visit a local DMV office with your registration card and proof of your new address. Virginia does not charge a fee for address changes on vehicle registration.

What documents prove your new address

Virginia accepts several documents as proof of your new address. Common options include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government-issued mail (such as a tax bill or voter registration card) dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and new address clearly.

If you are changing your driver's license address in person or renewing your license at the same time, bring one of these documents with you. For online address changes to your driver's license, you typically do not need to upload proof—the system accepts your self-reported address. However, if you are renewing your license or obtaining a Real ID card, proof of residency will be required.

Real ID compliance and address changes

Virginia's Real ID-compliant driver's license and identification card require proof of your current address. If you are renewing your license or upgrading to a Real ID card, you must bring proof of residency to the DMV office or upload it through dmvnow.com. A Real ID card is required for federal air travel and entry to federal buildings as of May 2025.

If you have already obtained a Real ID card and are only changing your address, you do not need to renew the card itself—just update your address through the methods described above. Your Real ID status remains valid even after an address change.

Timeline and what to expect after you submit

Online address changes to your driver's license take effect when ready in the DMV system. Your physical license will continue to show your old address until you renew it at the end of its validity period. Vehicle registration address changes processed online or by mail typically take 5 to 10 business days. You will receive your new registration card by mail at your new address.

If you submit your change in person at a DMV office, you may receive an updated registration card on the spot, depending on the office's equipment and workload. Check dmvnow.com for current wait times before you visit. If you have an outstanding ticket, suspension, or other issue on your driving record, address changes may be delayed until those matters are resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address before I can renew my registration?

No, but it is a good idea to do so before renewal. When you renew your registration, the DMV will mail your new registration card to the address on file. If that address is outdated, you may not receive your renewal notice or card. You can change your address anytime before or during the renewal process.

What if I move out of Virginia?

If you move to another state, you should notify the Virginia DMV and obtain a driver's license and vehicle registration in your new state. Virginia does not require you to formally surrender your Virginia license, but you should not use it once you have obtained a license in your new state. Contact the DMV in your new state for their specific requirements.

Can I change my address by phone?

Yes. Call 1-800-435-5133 and provide your driver's license number, date of birth, and new address. The agent will update your driver's license address over the phone. For vehicle registration, you can also call to ask about mailing in your change, though the online method is usually faster.

How long does my physical license show the old address?

Your physical driver's license will show your old address until you renew it. Renewal happens every eight years for standard licenses and every five years for Real ID cards. You can renew early if you want your new address on your physical card, though there is a fee for early renewal.

What if I never received my new registration card after changing my address?

Contact the Virginia DMV at 1-800-435-5133 to confirm your address change was processed and to verify the mailing address on file. If the card was lost in the mail, the DMV can issue a replacement. You can also check the status of your registration online at dmvnow.com using your license plate number.