How to Change Your Address at the DMV in Virginia

Moving within Virginia comes with a long to‑do list, and updating your address with the Department of Motor Vehicles should be near the top. In Virginia, an accurate address is essential for your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and official notices about your driving record.

This guide explains how a Virginia DMV change of address works, what you’ll need, and what to do if something goes wrong, with a focus on how the process works specifically in Virginia.

Virginia DMV: Who Handles Address Changes?

In Virginia, this is typically handled by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (Virginia DMV). The same state agency manages:

• Driver’s licenses and ID cards
• Vehicle registrations (license plates)
• Vehicle titles
• Address changes for all of the above

That means you do not have to track down different offices for different tasks. If you’re changing your address in Virginia, you are working with the Virginia DMV, whether you do it online, by mail, or at a customer service center.

Many drivers in Virginia find that using the DMV’s online system is the fastest option, but it’s important to understand when you may still be required to appear in person (for example, if your license is expiring soon or you’re also changing your name).

To safely find the official site, search for “Virginia DMV online services” or “Virginia DMV change of address” and make sure the web address ends in .virginia.gov.

Why Updating Your Address With the Virginia DMV Matters

Depending on your county in Virginia, you might receive different local taxes, fees, and personal property bills tied to your vehicle. The address the DMV has on file affects:

• Your driver’s license and ID
  Law enforcement and state agencies use this address to identify you and send you important updates.

• Your vehicle registration and tax records
  Localities in Virginia rely on DMV registration records for personal property tax assessments and decals (where still used).

• Your vehicle title
  While your title may not always be reissued when you move, the address associated with your vehicle in the DMV system impacts future title transactions, such as selling or transferring the vehicle.

• Official notices and reminders
  In Virginia, this is typically handled by automated mailings and sometimes email, including:

  • Registration renewal reminders
  • License renewal notices
  • Notices of suspension, fines, or court actions
  • Emissions or safety inspection-related notices in certain areas

If the Virginia DMV doesn’t have your current address, you might miss renewal deadlines, ignore critical notices without realizing it, or face penalties for failing to respond to something you never saw. While this guide doesn’t provide legal advice, it’s generally safer to update your address as soon as you move so your DMV record, law enforcement records, and local tax authorities all have consistent information.

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

In Virginia, most address changes—especially those done online—require only basic information. However, if you go in person or your situation is complex (such as a name change combined with a move), you may need more documentation.

Common information you should have ready

Whether you file online, by mail, or in person, be prepared with:

• Your full legal name
• Virginia driver’s license or ID number
• Date of birth
• Last four digits of your Social Security number (often used to verify identity)
• New physical residence address in Virginia
• New mailing address, if different from your physical address
  (For example, a P.O. Box, business address, or family member’s address, if allowed by Virginia DMV rules.)

If you own or co‑own vehicles registered in Virginia:

• Vehicle information, such as:
  • License plate number
  • Vehicle identification number (VIN)
  • Year, make, and model (sometimes helpful to have)

Many drivers in Virginia find that having a Virginia DMV online services account login (if they’ve already created one) speeds things up.

Possible documents for in‑person visits

If you update your address in person, or if you’re combining it with other changes (like a name change or Real ID upgrade), you may be asked for:

• Proof of identity (for example, your current Virginia driver’s license or ID)
• Proof of Virginia residency, which could include items like:
  • A lease, mortgage statement, or deed
  • Utility bill or bank statement with your name and new address
  • Official government correspondence addressed to you at the new address

In Virginia, this is typically handled at a DMV customer service center, where staff may review your documents on the spot and determine what’s acceptable under current rules. If you’re unsure what’s valid, search the official Virginia DMV site for “residency documents” or “Real ID” requirements.

Why Virginia DMV address change requests get rejected

Address change requests can be delayed or rejected if:

• Information doesn’t match DMV records
  Name, date of birth, or Social Security number entries that don’t align with what DMV has on file can trigger a mismatch.

• The address can’t be validated
  For example, if:

  • The street name or number is entered incorrectly
  • The ZIP code doesn’t match the city or county in Virginia
  • The address is a type not allowed for a specific record (such as trying to use a P.O. Box as a physical residence when a street address is required)

• Required fields are left blank
  Online forms often reject submissions missing license numbers, full addresses, or confirmation checkboxes.

• You’re trying to change someone else’s address
  Each driver or vehicle owner typically needs to authorize their own Virginia DMV change of address.

To reduce issues, double‑check spelling, apartment or unit numbers, and whether your mailing and residential addresses are correctly indicated.

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

In Virginia, you can usually update your address:

• Online (if eligible)
• In person at a DMV customer service center or DMV Select partner office
• By mail (in certain situations and using official forms)

A key point: in Virginia, a DMV change of address typically updates both your license record and vehicle registration records in the database. However, getting new physical cards or documents (like a printed license, ID, or registration card) may require additional steps or fees. To verify the most current rules or obtain a Virginia DMV change of address form for mail, use the search function on the official Virginia DMV website.

1. Online Virginia DMV Change of Address (If Eligible)

For many residents, the fastest way to handle a DMV change of address Virginia is online.

Basic steps (online)

1. Go to the official Virginia DMV site

   • Type the address manually or search for “Virginia DMV online services change of address.”
   • Confirm the URL ends in .virginia.gov to avoid impostor sites.

2. Sign in or verify your identity

   • Enter your driver’s license number or ID number.
   • Provide requested personal details (date of birth, last 4 of SSN, etc.).

3. Locate the address change option

   • Look for something like “Change Address,” “Update Address,” or “My DMV Record.”
   • In Virginia, this is typically handled through the same online portal that manages renewals and replacements.

4. Enter your new physical address

   • Carefully type your street address, apartment or unit number, city, state (VA), and ZIP code.
   • Confirm whether this is your residence address, mailing address, or both.

5. Update your mailing address if different

   • If you use a P.O. Box or other mailing address, enter that separately as directed.

6. Confirm the vehicles tied to your record

   • Many systems will show all vehicles registered under your name.
   • Select whether the address change should apply to:
     • Just your license/ID record, or
     • Your license and all listed vehicles

7. Review and submit

   • Verify that everything is accurate.
   • Submit your request and look for an on‑screen confirmation or reference number.

8. Decide whether you need a new physical license or registration card

   • Some residents in Virginia prefer to order a replacement license or ID with the new address printed, especially if they move between cities or counties.

Online systems in Virginia often allow you to print a confirmation page or save a PDF as proof that you submitted an address change, which can be helpful if records haven’t caught up yet.

2. In-Person Address Change at a Virginia DMV Office

If you’re not eligible for online service, don’t have reliable internet access, or are handling multiple changes at once (such as a name change plus address update), you may need to visit in person.

In Virginia, this is typically handled at:

• DMV Customer Service Centers
• Participating DMV Select offices (often in local government buildings)

When in-person may be required or strongly recommended

• You need to change your name and address together.
• You want to upgrade to a Real ID compliant license at the same time.
• Your license is expired or about to expire, and you plan to renew.
• The online system will not verify your identity or address.
• You’re a new Virginia resident converting an out-of-state license.

Basic steps (in person)

1. Find a nearby Virginia DMV location and hours

   • Search for “Virginia DMV locations” or “Virginia DMV office locator” on the official site.
   • Many offices in Virginia accept appointments for some services; check ahead.

2. Gather required documents

   • Current Virginia driver’s license or ID.
   • Any proof of identity/residency you may need if also upgrading, renewing, or changing your name.

3. Tell the clerk you need to update your address

   • Specify whether it’s for your driver’s license, ID, registration, or all.
   • In many cases, the clerk can update both license and registration records simultaneously.

4. Review and sign

   • You may be asked to sign an application or electronic pad confirming the new address.

5. Request new documents if desired

   • You may have the option to:
     • Order a replacement license with updated address.
     • Get an updated vehicle registration card printed.
   • The staff member can explain any fees or waiting periods, but you can also check the official Virginia DMV website for current fee schedules.

Many drivers in Virginia find that handling an address change and a license renewal in the same in‑person visit is efficient, especially if they are approaching their renewal date anyway.

3. Changing Your Address by Mail in Virginia

Depending on the current rules, you may be able to submit a Virginia DMV change of address form by mail. This is most useful if:

• You cannot use the online system.
• You are temporarily out of state but maintaining Virginia residency.
• You prefer paper forms.

Steps will generally look like this:

1. Find the official address change form

   • On the Virginia DMV website, search for “change of address form” or “address change application.”
   • Confirm the form is clearly labeled as a DMV document and that you are viewing the latest version.

2. Fill out the form completely

   • Provide your full legal name.
   • Include driver’s license or ID number.
   • List current address and new address.
   • Add vehicle information if the form requests it.

3. Sign and date the form

   • Unsigned forms may be rejected.

4. Mail to the correct Virginia DMV address

   • Use the mailing address listed on the form or on the DMV website.
   • Consider using a trackable mailing service if timing is important.

5. Allow time for processing

   • Processing times can vary; watch your mail and online DMV account to see when the change appears.

If you’re unsure whether mail is currently accepted for address updates, search the official site or contact the DMV directly using contact options listed on the Virginia DMV website (not third‑party sources).

What Happens After You Submit Your Address Change?

After you submit a Virginia DMV change of address—online, by mail, or in person—several things usually happen behind the scenes.

Database update

In Virginia, this is typically handled by updating your driver record and any vehicle records in the DMV system. The updated address then appears when:

• Law enforcement runs your license or plate.
• DMV staff access your record.
• Local tax authorities rely on DMV data for vehicle assessments.

Confirmation and documentation

Depending on how you updated your address, you may receive:

• On-screen confirmation if done online, sometimes with a confirmation number.
• Printed receipt if done in person.
• Mail confirmation or updated documents, such as:
  • A replacement driver’s license or ID (if you requested one).
  • An updated vehicle registration card.
  • Future renewal notices mailed to the new address.

Exact timeframes for receiving new cards, stickers, or mail can vary by volume and location in Virginia. If you need proof of your address change quickly, consider:

• Printing online confirmations.
• Keeping in-person receipts in your glove box or wallet.
• Verifying that your new address shows in your online DMV account.

Address on license vs. registration

Depending on Virginia’s current practices, updating your address in the DMV system may not automatically print a new physical driver’s license or registration card. Instead:

• Your record is updated immediately, but:
  • You may need to order a replacement license to see the new address on the card.
  • You may need to print or request a fresh registration card if you want updated paperwork in your vehicle.

To confirm your options, use the Virginia DMV website’s search bar to look up “replacement license” or “replacement registration.”

Special Situations for Address Changes in Virginia

Life in Virginia can be complex, and some address change scenarios need extra attention.

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) holders

If you hold a CDL in Virginia, federal and state rules can be stricter:

• You may be required to appear in person for some profile changes.
• Address changes may need to align with your medical certification records and employer information.
• Some endorsements or hazmat clearances may require careful coordination to avoid issues.

Check the Virginia DMV site for CDL‑specific guidance, or search “Virginia CDL address change” to find official instructions.

Active-duty military and families

In a state with major installations like Norfolk, Quantico, and Fort Belvoir, many drivers in Virginia are active‑duty service members or military spouses. Consider:

• Whether you are claiming Virginia as your legal residence or just stationed here.
• Whether your mailing address (such as a P.O. Box on base) is different from where you physically live.
• How a Virginia DMV address change interacts with home-of-record rules, out-of-state plates, or military exemptions.

The Virginia DMV website often has sections specifically for military personnel and dependents, which can clarify when you must update addresses and how that affects registration and taxes.

College students

Many college students in Virginia move between campus addresses and family homes:

• Decide whether your permanent address is your family’s home or your campus housing.
• Ensure that the address on file is where you can reliably receive DMV mail and legal notices, especially over summer or winter breaks.
• If your car is registered in your name and you primarily keep it at school (for example, in Charlottesville, Blacksburg, or Harrisonburg), keep in mind how local parking permits and residence rules might interact with your address choice.

New residents moving into Virginia from another state

If you’ve moved into Virginia from another state, simply changing addresses on your old state DMV records is not enough. You’ll generally need to:

• Obtain a Virginia driver’s license (if required by residency rules).
• Title and register your vehicle in Virginia.
• Then set your Virginia address on those new records.

Search the Virginia DMV site for “new resident” to review timelines, testing requirements, and any inspections that may apply.

P.O. Boxes, rural routes, and non-standard addresses

In rural parts of Virginia, addresses can be more complex:

• The DMV may require a physical residence address for your driver’s license record, even if your mail is delivered to a P.O. Box.
• If you use a rural route, box number, or non-traditional street address, ensure it matches how it appears in official USPS records.
• Some residents in Virginia find it helpful to list both:
  • A physical address (for residency and law enforcement use), and
  • A mailing address (for safe and reliable delivery).

Follow the address format guidelines on the DMV’s online form or paper application.

Changing your name and address at the same time

If you’ve recently married, divorced, or legally changed your name and moved:

• In Virginia, this is typically handled best with an in-person visit, since:
  • You may need to show court or marriage documents.
  • You may choose to update to a Real ID compliant credential at the same time.
• Plan ahead:
  • Update your name with the Social Security Administration first (as recommended by many DMVs).
  • Bring all relevant documentation, as described on the official Virginia DMV site under “Name change” or “Real ID.”

Troubleshooting: When Your Virginia DMV Address Change Doesn’t Go Through

Things don’t always go smoothly. Here’s what to do if your Virginia DMV change of address runs into problems.

Online address change rejected

If the online system will not accept your new address:

• Check for typos

  • Confirm the spelling of your street name, city, and ZIP code.
  • Make sure “VA” is selected as the state where required.

• Try an alternate format

  • Use the version of your address that appears on official USPS mail.
  • Remove punctuation or special characters if the form rejects them.

• Verify identity details

  • Ensure your name, date of birth, and SSN fragments match what DMV has on file.
  • If you’ve recently changed your name, the online system may still have your old name.

If it still fails, many drivers in Virginia find that visiting a DMV office—or calling the DMV via the number listed on the official site—resolves the issue more quickly than repeated online attempts.

Submitted, but not updated in the system

If you submitted an address change but your records still show the old address:

• Give it some processing time, especially if you submitted by mail.
• Log back into your online DMV account (if you have one) to check what address appears there.
• If it has been a reasonable amount of time and still shows the old address:
  • Contact the Virginia DMV using official contact channels.
  • Have your confirmation number, if any, and the date you submitted the request.

Depending on your county in Virginia, your local tax office may also rely on DMV data. If they are still sending bills to the old address, you may need to follow up with both the DMV and the local tax office.

Rejected request (in person or by mail)

If an in-person or mailed request is rejected:

• Read any notice carefully

  • Look for a specific reason: missing signature, incomplete form, invalid document, etc.

• Correct and resubmit

  • Provide any missing information or documents.
  • If documents were not accepted as residency proof, check the Virginia DMV’s list of acceptable documents and choose a different one.

• Verify you used the correct form

  • Make sure you downloaded or received the current official Virginia DMV change of address form.

License updated but registration didn’t (or vice versa)

Sometimes, a driver discovers:

• Their driver’s license record has the new address, but
• Their vehicle registration still shows the old address, or the other way around.

In that case:

1. Check your online DMV profile, if available:

   • Confirm what address is listed for each vehicle.
   • Some systems allow you to update vehicle address separately.

2. Contact or visit the DMV:

   • Explain clearly: “My driver’s license address is updated, but my registration address is still old.”
   • Ask if you need to:
     • Submit a separate request for vehicles, or
     • Order updated registration cards.

In Virginia, this is typically handled by the same DMV database, but separate “modules” for license and vehicle records sometimes need individual updates.

You’ve moved out of Virginia

If you move out of Virginia permanently:

• You’ll usually need to get a driver’s license in your new state and register your vehicles there, based on the laws of that state.
• You may still need to:
  • Cancel or update your Virginia vehicle registration.
  • Return Virginia license plates if required by DMV guidance.
  • Update your address with any Virginia agencies that may still send you notices (for instance, regarding tolls or unresolved tickets).

To learn the exact steps, search the official Virginia DMV site for “moving out of state” or “out-of-state resident” and follow the listed instructions. This helps prevent surprises like future tax bills or penalty notices being sent to your old Virginia address.

Quick Reference: Virginia Address Change Options

A short comparison can help you choose the best method for your situation.

Keeping your DMV address current in Virginia keeps you in the loop on renewals, notices, and any issues that might affect your driving record or your vehicles. Whether you handle your DMV change of address Virginia online, visit a DMV customer service center, or mail in a form, take a moment to:

• Update both your driver’s license/ID record and your vehicle registration records.
• Check that your physical and mailing addresses are entered correctly.
• Verify that your changes have gone through using your online account or updated documents.

When in doubt, go to the official Virginia DMV website (ending in .virginia.gov) and search terms like “change of address,” “replacement license,” or “Virginia DMV change of address form” for the latest, detailed instructions.