How to Update Your Address on a Florida Driver's License

Update your address with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles within 10 days of moving

Florida law requires you to notify the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) of a new address within 10 days of moving. You do not need to renew your license or get a new card — you can update the address on file while keeping your current license valid. The fastest route is online through the DHSMV website if you have a valid email address and a recent Florida driver's license. If you cannot use the online system, you can update in person at any Florida driver's license office or by mail.

The address you provide becomes the official record tied to your license. This matters for traffic citations, vehicle registration, insurance claims, and any legal documents that reference your license. Getting it wrong or waiting too long can cause mail from the state to go to an old address, which can delay renewal notices or create problems if you are cited.

Key Takeaways

You have 10 days from your move date to update your address with DHSMV, though updating sooner prevents mail delays.
The online method through the DHSMV website is fastest and requires only your license number, date of birth, and a valid email address.
In-person updates at any Florida driver's license office take minutes and require your current license and proof of your new address.
Mail-in updates require a completed form and proof of address sent to the DHSMV, and take two to three weeks to process.
Your license card itself does not change — only the address in the state's system is updated.

Update your address online through the DHSMV website

The online method is available 24 hours a day and takes about five minutes. Go to the DHSMV website and select the option to update your address. You will need your current Florida driver's license number, your date of birth, and a valid email address. The system will send a confirmation email to the address you provide — you must click the link in that email to complete the update.

Online updates work only if your license is valid and not suspended. If your license has expired or been suspended, you must update in person or by mail. The online system also cannot process changes if your name has changed since your license was issued — in that case, go to a driver's license office with proof of the name change.

Update your address in person at a Florida driver's license office

Walk-in updates are available at any Florida driver's license office during business hours. Bring your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable address proof includes a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. The office will update your record on the spot, and the change takes effect when ready.

In-person updates are the best choice if your license is expired, suspended, or if you need the change recorded the same day. Wait times vary by location and time of day — calling ahead or checking the DHSMV website for your local office's hours can help you plan. Some offices are busier than others, so visiting early in the day or mid-week often means shorter waits.

Update your address by mail

Complete the Address Change form (Form HSMV 14010) and mail it to the DHSMV with proof of your new address. The form is available on the DHSMV website as a PDF you can print and fill out by hand. Include one document showing your new address dated within the last 60 days — the same documents accepted in person work by mail.

Mail the completed form and address proof to the DHSMV address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the DHSMV receives your envelope. Because mail delivery times vary, send your update as soon as you move rather than waiting until day 10. Keep a copy of what you mail in case you need to follow up.

What counts as proof of your new address

The DHSMV accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. Utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, and government mail all work. A letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead with your name and address also counts. Avoid using documents with only a partial address or documents older than 60 days.

If you are moving to a new address that does not yet have mail service or if you are living temporarily with someone else, call the DHSMV at 1-844-DL-HELP-1 (1-844-354-3571) to ask about alternatives. The office may accept a signed statement from your landlord or a lease agreement even if it is not dated within 60 days, depending on your situation.

What happens if you miss the 10-day important date

Missing the important date does not automatically suspend your license or create a fine. However, the DHSMV may issue a citation if you are stopped by law enforcement and your address on file does not match where you actually live. More commonly, missing the important date causes practical problems: renewal notices and other state mail go to your old address, and you may miss important important date without knowing it.

If you have already moved and have not updated your address, do it now. The 10-day window has passed, but updating when ready prevents future problems. If you have received a citation for failing to update your address, contact the court listed on the citation to discuss your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get a new license card when I change my address?

No. Your current license card remains valid. Only the address in the DHSMV system changes. You keep the same card and license number. The new address appears in the state's records but not on the physical card you carry.

Can I update my address if my license is expired?

You cannot use the online system if your license is expired. You must go to a driver's license office in person or mail in the address change form. Bring your expired license and proof of your new address to the office, or mail both documents with the address change form.

What if I move again before my update is processed?

If you are updating by mail and move again before the DHSMV processes your first change, submit a second address change with your new address. The DHSMV will process the most recent update. If you are updating online or in person, the change takes effect when ready, so you can update again right away if you move.

How do I know if my address update went through?

If you updated online, check your email for the confirmation message. If you updated in person, the office will confirm the change before you leave. If you mailed the form, the DHSMV does not send a confirmation — wait two to three weeks and then check your address online through the DHSMV website or call 1-844-354-3571 to verify.

Does updating my address affect my vehicle registration?

No. Your driver's license address and vehicle registration address are separate records. Updating your license address does not change your registration. You must update your vehicle registration separately with the DHSMV if you want the registration address to match your new home address.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.