You can change your Georgia address online, by mail, or in person at a DDS office
Georgia allows you to update your driver's license address without getting a new license, as long as you're not changing your name or correcting information that was wrong on the original. The fastest method is online through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website, which takes about 10 minutes. If you prefer not to go online, you can mail in a form or visit a local DDS office in person.
Your address change becomes official once DDS processes it. You don't need to carry proof of the change while you wait — your old license remains valid during processing. However, if you're moving out of state or need a replacement license for any reason, you'll want to complete the address change first so your new card reflects the correct location.
Key Takeaways
- The online method through the Georgia DDS website is the fastest option and requires only your driver's license number, date of birth, and new address.
- You can also mail Form MV-42 (Address Change) to the DDS address processing center with a copy of your license and proof of your new address.
- In-person address changes at any DDS office take a few minutes and require your current license and one document showing your new address.
- Your old license stays valid while your change is being processed; you don't need to request a replacement unless your card is damaged or expiring soon.
- Processing times vary: online changes typically show up within one to two weeks, while mail submissions may take three to four weeks.
Changing your address online through the DDS website
Visit the Georgia DDS website and look for the "Address Change" option in the online services section. You'll need your current driver's license number, your date of birth, and your new Georgia address. The system will ask you to confirm your identity by answering security questions based on your DDS records.
Once you submit the form, you'll receive a confirmation number. Write this down or take a screenshot — you may need it if you want to check the status of your change later. Most online submissions process within one to two weeks, though DDS does not provide a specific tracking system, so you won't receive a notification when it's complete. Your license will still show your old address until the change appears in the system.
Mailing in an address change form
read or request Form MV-42 (Address Change) from the Georgia DDS website or by calling 678-413-8400. Fill out the form completely with your current license number, full name, and new address. You'll need to include a photocopy of the front and back of your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days all work.
Mail the completed form and documents to the DDS address processing center. The mailing address is listed on the form itself. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you want confirmation of receipt, though this is optional. Processing by mail typically takes three to four weeks. Do not send cash or money orders; address changes have no fee.
Changing your address in person at a DDS office
Visit any Georgia DDS office with your current driver's license and one document showing your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. You do not need an appointment for an address change, though wait times vary by location and time of day.
The DDS employee will update your address in the system when ready. Your license will still show the old address, but your record in the system will reflect the new one. If you need a replacement license with your new address printed on it, you can request one at the same visit, though this requires a new photo and costs the standard license replacement fee (currently $32 for a regular license, though fees can change).
What documents count as proof of your new address
Georgia DDS 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, property tax bills, and bank or credit card statements all work. Government mail such as tax documents or voter registration cards also count. The document must be an original or certified copy — photocopies of photocopies are not accepted.
If you've just moved and don't yet have a document in your name at the new address, you can use a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead stating your name, the property address, and your move-in date. Some DDS offices also accept a utility company letter confirming your new service address. Call your local DDS office ahead of time if you're unsure whether your specific document will work.
Processing times and what to expect
Online address changes typically process within one to two weeks. Mail submissions take three to four weeks from the date DDS receives them. In-person changes are processed when ready in the system, though your physical license card will not be updated unless you request a replacement. There is no way to track an online or mail submission in real time; DDS does not send email or text notifications when changes are complete.
Your old license remains valid and legal to use while your address change is being processed. You do not need to carry proof of the pending change. If you're stopped by law enforcement, your license is still valid even though it shows an outdated address. However, if you're moving out of state, renewing your license, or need a replacement for any reason, complete the address change first so your new card reflects the correct location.
When you need a replacement license instead of just an address change
An address change alone is free and does not require a new photo or license card. However, if your license is damaged, lost, stolen, or expiring within the next year, you'll need to request a replacement license rather than just updating your address. A replacement license costs $32 for a regular license (fees vary for commercial licenses and other types) and requires a new photo taken at the DDS office.
If you're moving out of state, you do not need to update your Georgia address before leaving. However, you will need to obtain a driver's license from your new state within the timeframe that state requires — typically 30 to 60 days after establishing residency. Your Georgia license remains valid for identification purposes even after you move, but you cannot legally drive with an out-of-state address on your license if you're now a resident of another state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get a new license photo when I change my address?
No. An address change does not require a new photo. Your existing license photo remains valid. You only need a new photo if you request a replacement license card, which is optional unless your license is damaged, lost, or expiring soon.
What if I moved but don't have a document showing my new address yet?
A signed letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead stating your name, the address, and move-in date works at most DDS offices. Some offices also accept a utility company letter confirming your new service address. Call your local DDS office ahead of time to confirm they'll accept your specific document.
How long does it take to see my address change in the system?
Online changes typically process within one to two weeks. Mail submissions take three to four weeks. In-person changes are processed when ready in the DDS system, though your physical license card will still show your old address unless you request a replacement.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
Yes, you can change your address on an expired license. However, if your license expired more than a few years ago, DDS may require you to renew it instead of just updating the address. Call 678-413-8400 to confirm what you need to do with your specific license.
What if I'm moving out of Georgia?
You do not need to update your Georgia address before moving. However, you will need to obtain a driver's license from your new state within the timeframe that state requires, typically 30 to 60 days after establishing residency. Your Georgia license remains valid for identification but cannot be used as your legal driving license once you become a resident of another state.