How to Update Your Address on Your Georgia Driver's License

Where to change your address and what you'll need

You can update your address on your Georgia driver's license at any Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office, online through the DDS website, or by mail. The fastest route is the DDS website if you have a valid email address and a credit or debit card — you can complete the change in minutes without leaving home. If you prefer in-person service, walk-ins are accepted at any DDS location, though wait times vary by office and time of day.

For any method, you'll need your current driver's license number and your new address. If you're changing your address because you moved out of state or your license is expired, you'll face different requirements — those situations are covered in the sections below.

Key Takeaways

The DDS website lets you change your address online for a $20 fee if your license is valid and you have an email address.
In-person changes at a DDS office cost $20 and take about 15 to 30 minutes depending on wait time, with no appointment needed.
Mail-in address changes require a completed form, a copy of your license, and proof of your new address, and take two to four weeks.
If your license is expired or you moved out of state, you cannot use the online or mail-in address-only process and must renew instead.

Changing your address online through the DDS website

Go to the Georgia DDS website and select the option to update your address. You'll enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. Then you'll enter your new Georgia address and pay the $20 fee with a credit or debit card. The system will confirm your change when ready, and your updated license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days.

This method works only if your current license is valid (not expired) and you're staying in Georgia. You also need an email address to receive a confirmation. If your license expired more than two years ago, or if you're moving out of state, you'll need to renew your license instead of straightforward changing your address.

Changing your address in person at a DDS office

Visit any DDS office in Georgia with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. Bring the original document or a certified copy — a photo of the document usually is not accepted. You'll fill out a short form, pay $20, and receive your updated license by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

DDS offices are open Monday through Friday, typically 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours vary by location. You do not need an appointment. Arrive early in the day or mid-week if possible, as wait times can stretch past an hour during lunch hours or on Fridays. You can find your nearest office and current wait times on the DDS website.

Changing your address by mail

read the Form DL 43 (Address Change) from the Georgia DDS website. Fill it out completely, including your current license number, date of birth, and new address. Make a copy of the front and back of your current driver's license, and include proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days). Mail all three items to the address listed on the form.

Processing takes two to four weeks from the date DDS receives your envelope. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address. Keep a copy of everything you send in case the mail is lost. If you don't receive your updated license within five weeks, contact DDS to confirm they received your form.

What to do if your license is expired

If your Georgia driver's license expired more than 30 days ago, you cannot change your address alone — you must renew your license. The renewal process includes an address update, so you'll provide your new address as part of that process. Renewal costs $32 for a four-year license or $64 for an eight-year license, depending on your age and whether you want a REAL ID-compliant license.

You can renew online if your license expired within the last two years and you have a valid email address. If it expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person at a DDS office. Bring your expired license, proof of your new address, and proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return).

Changing your address if you moved out of state

If you moved to another state, you cannot update your Georgia address online or by mail. You must surrender your Georgia license and obtain a license in your new state. Each state has its own process, timeline, and fees — contact your new state's driver's license agency for their requirements.

If you're moving temporarily and plan to return to Georgia, you can keep your Georgia license and update the address to a Georgia address (a friend's, family member's, or a mail forwarding service). This keeps your license valid in Georgia. However, if you establish residency in another state, you are legally required to obtain that state's license within a set timeframe, usually 30 to 60 days.

Address changes for commercial driver's licenses (CDL)

If you hold a Georgia CDL, you must change your address in person at a DDS office — online and mail-in options are not available for commercial licenses. Bring your current CDL, proof of your new address, and a completed Form DL 43. The fee is $20, and your updated CDL will be mailed to your new address in 7 to 10 business days.

If your CDL is expired, you must renew it rather than straightforward changing your address. CDL renewal requires a medical examination and additional documentation beyond what a standard address change needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my updated license in the mail?

Georgia DDS mails updated licenses within 7 to 10 business days after your change is processed. Mail delivery to your address typically takes another 3 to 5 business days, so plan for 10 to 15 days total. If you don't receive it within three weeks, contact DDS with your confirmation number.

Can I use my old license with the new address before the updated one arrives?

No. Your old license with the old address is still your valid license until the updated one arrives. If you're stopped by police or asked for ID, you can explain that you've submitted an address change and show your confirmation if you have one, but the old address is what's officially on file.

What counts as proof of my new address?

A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail (tax notice, voter registration card, court document) dated within the last 60 days all work. The document must show your name and new address. A bank statement, credit card statement, or insurance bill usually is accepted too — ask the DDS office if you're unsure about a specific document.

Do I need to change my address if I'm only moving within Georgia temporarily?

No, but you should if you plan to stay at the new address for more than a few months. Your license address is your official residence for legal purposes, including voter registration and jury duty notices. If you move back before your updated license arrives, you can update it again at no extra cost.

What if I lost my driver's license and moved at the same time?

You'll need to report it lost and explore for a replacement, which includes providing your new address. This costs $20 for a replacement and is handled in person at a DDS office or online if your license is not expired. Bring proof of your new address and your Social Security number documentation.

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.