You can update your SC address online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office

South Carolina lets you change your driver's license or ID card address without getting a new card—you just notify the DMV of the change. The fastest way is online through the SC DMV website if you have a valid license or ID. If you cannot use the online system, you can mail a form or visit a DMV office in person. The address update itself is free, though some methods take longer than others.

Your new address becomes official once the DMV processes your request. You do not need to carry proof of the new address with you when ready, but if you are stopped by law enforcement, having something that shows your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement) can help avoid confusion. The DMV will mail you a new card with your updated address if you request one, though this costs extra.

Key Takeaways

  • The SC DMV online system at scdmvonline.com is the fastest way to update your address if your license or ID is current and not suspended.
  • Mailing Form DL-43 (Address Change) to the DMV takes one to two weeks and requires no fee, but you must include your driver's license number and signature.
  • Visiting an SC DMV office in person takes about 30 minutes and requires your current license or ID plus proof of your new address.
  • A replacement card showing your new address costs $10 and takes two to three weeks to arrive by mail; you do not have to order one unless you want it.

Updating your address online through the DMV website

Go to scdmvonline.com and select the address change option. You will need your driver's license or ID number, your date of birth, and your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity and ask you to enter your new address. Once you submit, the change is recorded when ready in the DMV database.

This method works only if your license or ID is valid and not suspended or revoked. If your license has expired or is suspended, you must use the mail or in-person method instead. The online system is available 24 hours a day, and you will receive a confirmation number when the update is complete.

Mailing an address change form to the DMV

read Form DL-43 (Address Change) from the SC DMV website or request it by phone at 803-896-5000. Fill in your current driver's license number, your new address, and sign the form. Mail it to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, P.O. Box 1498, Blythewood, SC 29016.

Processing by mail typically takes one to two weeks. There is no fee for the address change itself. Keep a copy of the form for your records. If you want a replacement card with your new address, you must request it separately and pay the $10 fee; otherwise, your old card remains valid, and only the DMV's records are updated.

Changing your address in person at a DMV office

Visit any SC DMV office with your current driver's license or ID and proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail showing your name and new address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

Bring the original document or a certified copy—a photocopy alone is not accepted. The DMV staff will verify your information, update your address in the system, and you can leave with your address changed when ready. If you want a replacement card, you can order it on the spot for $10, and it will be mailed to your new address within two to three weeks.

What proof of address the DMV accepts

The DMV accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. These include utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet), lease or rental agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, bank or credit card statements, insurance policies, and government correspondence. A driver's license or ID from another state is not accepted as proof of SC address.

If you do not have any of these documents, contact your local DMV office before you visit—staff can sometimes work with you on alternative forms of proof, though this varies by location. Bring the original document; photocopies are not accepted in person, though mailed forms do not require proof of address.

Getting a replacement card with your new address

A replacement card costs $10 and is optional. You do not have to order one just to update your address—your old card remains valid for driving, and the DMV's records will show your new address. However, if you want a card that displays your current address, you can request one online, by mail, or in person.

If you order online or by mail, include the $10 fee (check or money order) and specify that you want a replacement card. The new card will be mailed to your new address and arrives in two to three weeks. If you order in person at a DMV office, you can pay by cash, check, or card, and the card will still be mailed to you—you cannot pick it up the same day.

Timeline and what to expect after you notify the DMV

Online updates are processed when ready. Mail takes one to two weeks. In-person updates are when ready. Once your address is changed, the DMV database reflects the new address right away, even if you have not received a replacement card yet.

If you ordered a replacement card, expect it to arrive within two to three weeks. If you did not order one, your old card with the old address is still legal to use for driving. However, if you are stopped by police, having a document showing your current address (utility bill, lease, bank statement) can help clarify that you have moved and prevent confusion or a citation for providing false information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to get a new card when I change my address?

No. Updating your address with the DMV is free and does not require a new card. Your old card remains valid for driving. A replacement card showing your new address costs $10 and is optional.

What if my license is expired or suspended?

You cannot use the online system. You must mail Form DL-43 or visit a DMV office in person. If your license is suspended, contact the DMV to find out what must be resolved before you can renew it.

Can I change my address without going to the DMV office?

Yes. Use the online system at scdmvonline.com if your license is current, or mail Form DL-43 to the address listed on the form. Both methods avoid a trip to the office.

How long does it take to change my address by mail?

One to two weeks. Mail Form DL-43 to the DMV's Blythewood office. Keep a copy for your records in case you need to prove you submitted it.

What if I move again before my replacement card arrives?

Contact the DMV and update your address again. The replacement card will be mailed to your most recent address on file. You can also call 803-896-5000 to confirm where the card will be sent.