Most states do not require a moving permit from the DMV
The DMV does not issue moving permits in most U.S. states. If you are moving and have heard about a "moving permit," you may be thinking of one of two different things: a commercial moving company license (which the state regulates but you do not need as a resident), or a parking permit for moving day (which your city or county issues, not the DMV).
If you are relocating your household and need to update your driver's license or vehicle registration, that is a change-of-address transaction at the DMV — not a permit. If you are hiring a moving company, they handle their own licensing. If you need to reserve a loading zone on a city street, your city's parking or transportation department issues that permit.
The confusion often arises because moving involves multiple agencies. Understanding which agency handles which part of your move saves time and prevents you from showing up at the wrong office.
Key Takeaways
- The DMV does not issue moving permits; it handles driver's license and vehicle registration changes when you relocate.
- If you need to reserve street parking or a loading zone for moving day, contact your city or county parking department, not the DMV.
- Moving companies are licensed by the state, but you do not need a permit to hire one; the company's license is their responsibility.
- Some cities require advance notice or a permit if you plan to block a street or sidewalk during your move, so check with local code enforcement first.
Updating your address at the DMV after a move
When you move to a new address, you must notify the DMV within a set timeframe — usually 10 to 30 days, depending on your state. This is not a permit; it is a required change-of-address update for your driver's license and vehicle registration.
You can update your address online in most states, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. Some states charge a small fee (typically $5 to $15) to reissue your license with the new address, while others do it at no cost. You will need your current license, proof of residency at the new address (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of identity.
This update is separate from any moving logistics. The DMV is straightforward keeping its records current so your license and registration match where you actually live.
Parking permits and loading zones for moving day
If you are moving within a city and need to park a moving truck or reserve street space for loading, you need a moving day parking permit from your city or county — not from the DMV. Many cities require this permit if you plan to occupy a parking space longer than the standard time limit or block a loading zone.
Contact your city's parking department, transportation department, or code enforcement office to request a moving permit. Some cities allow you to reserve a space online or by phone; others require you to visit in person. The permit is usually free or costs $10 to $25, and you typically request it a few days to a week before your move.
Without this permit, you risk a parking ticket or having your moving truck towed. If you are moving into an apartment building, ask your landlord or building management whether they have a process for reserving loading zones — many buildings have their own arrangements with the city.
Commercial moving company licensing
If you hire a professional moving company, that company must be licensed by your state's transportation or commerce department — not the DMV. The moving company handles all licensing requirements; you do not need to obtain anything yourself.
Before hiring a mover, you can verify their license through your state's transportation department or the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) database if they operate across state lines. A legitimate moving company will provide their license number and insurance information without being asked.
You do not need a permit to hire a moving company. The company's license proves they meet state safety and insurance standards. If a moving company tells you that you need to obtain a permit from the DMV or any state agency before they can move you, that is a red flag — they are either confused or not legitimate.
What happens if you move without updating the DMV
Failing to update your address at the DMV within the required timeframe can result in fines ranging from $25 to $100, depending on your state. More importantly, your license and registration will not match your actual residence, which can complicate traffic stops, vehicle sales, and insurance claims.
If you receive a ticket or are pulled over and your license shows an old address, you may face additional questions from law enforcement. Insurance companies may also deny claims if your address on file does not match where the vehicle was actually located at the time of an incident.
Updating your address is straightforward and usually takes less than 15 minutes online or at a DMV office. Doing it promptly prevents these complications.
State-by-state differences in address update rules
While all states require you to update your address at the DMV, the timeline and process vary. Some states give you 10 days; others allow 30 days. Some states let you update online; others require a visit to an office or a mailed form.
A few states charge a fee to reissue your license with a new address; most do not. Some states allow you to update your registration separately from your license; others require both at the same time.
Check your state's DMV website for the specific important date and process in your state. The rules do not change based on how far you are moving or whether you are moving within the state or from out of state — the requirement is the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit from the DMV to move?
No. The DMV does not issue moving permits. You need to update your driver's license and vehicle registration address at the DMV, but that is a change-of-address update, not a permit. If you need a permit for parking or a loading zone on moving day, you get that from your city or county, not the DMV.
What if I hire a moving company — do they need a permit from me?
No. The moving company is licensed by your state, and they handle all their own licensing and permits. You do not need to obtain anything for them. You can verify their license through your state's transportation department or the FMCSA database if they move across state lines.
How long do I have to update my address at the DMV after moving?
The timeline varies by state, typically between 10 and 30 days. Check your state's DMV website for the exact important date. Updating late can result in fines and may complicate insurance claims or traffic stops if your license does not match your actual address.
Can I update my DMV address online?
Most states allow online address updates for your driver's license and registration, though a few still require a visit to an office or a mailed form. Check your state's DMV website to see which methods are available in your state.
What if my city requires a permit to block a street during my move?
Contact your city's parking department or code enforcement office. They will tell you whether a permit is required, how far in advance to request it, and what it costs. Many cities allow you to request one online or by phone a few days before your move.