Update your address online, by mail, or in person at a DDS office

Georgia lets you change your driver's license address without getting a new license, as long as you're not moving out of state. You can do this online through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website, by mail with a form and proof of your new address, or by visiting a DDS office in person. The online method is fastest — it takes a few minutes and costs nothing. Mail and in-person visits also cost nothing but take longer to process.

You don't have to update your address when ready, but doing it soon keeps your license current for voting, jury duty notices, and vehicle registration. If you move and don't update your address, your license is still valid for driving, but official mail from the state will go to your old address.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method through the Georgia DDS website is free and takes minutes, but requires a valid email address and Social Security number to verify your identity.
  • If you mail your request, you'll need Form DL 43 (Address Change), a copy of your current license, and one document proving your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • In-person visits at any DDS office require your current license and one proof-of-address document; no appointment is needed but wait times vary by location.
  • Processing times are when ready for online changes, one to two weeks for mail, and same-day for in-person visits.

Changing your address online through the DDS website

Go to the Georgia DDS website and select the option to change your address. You'll need your current driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to log in. Enter your new address and confirm it matches your proof-of-address document. The system will ask you to verify your email address — Georgia will send a confirmation email to that address.

Once you submit the change online, it takes effect when ready in the DDS system. Your physical license still shows the old address, but your record is updated for voting registration, jury duty, and state correspondence. You can request a replacement license with the new address printed on it, but that costs money and requires a separate transaction.

Mailing a change-of-address form to DDS

read Form DL 43 (Address Change) from the Georgia DDS website or request it by phone at 678-413-8400. Fill in your current license number, new address, and sign the form. Include a photocopy of your current driver's license (front and back) and one document that proves your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.

Mail the completed form, license copy, and proof-of-address document to the address listed on the form. Processing takes one to two weeks. You'll receive a confirmation letter at your new address once the change is recorded. Like the online method, your physical license will still show the old address unless you order a replacement.

Visiting a DDS office in person

Find your nearest DDS office on the Georgia DDS website and go during business hours — no appointment is required. Bring your current driver's license and one proof-of-address document (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or recent government mail). A DDS employee will verify your information and process the change on the spot.

Your address is updated in the system when ready. Processing is same-day, and you'll receive a confirmation receipt before you leave. Like the other methods, your physical license retains the old address unless you pay for a replacement. Wait times at DDS offices vary; visiting early in the week or early in the day typically means shorter lines.

What documents count as proof of your new address

Georgia accepts utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank or credit card statements, and government mail — all dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and the new address. A bill addressed to "Resident" or a roommate's name won't work. If you just moved and don't have a bill in your name yet, a signed lease with your name and new address is usually the fastest option.

If you're moving to a new address but haven't received any mail there yet, call the DDS at 678-413-8400 to ask what documents they'll accept in your situation. Some offices have flexibility for people in transition, such as those moving into a new home before utilities are activated.

When to update your address and what happens if you don't

Update your address as soon as you move, or within a reasonable time after. There's no legal important date in Georgia, but delaying creates problems: jury duty notices, voter registration updates, and vehicle registration renewals will go to your old address. If you're pulled over, your license will show an address you no longer live at, which can complicate interactions with police.

Your driver's license remains valid for driving even if the address is outdated. However, if you're registering a vehicle or renewing your registration, the DMV will use the address on file with DDS. Keeping your address current prevents mail from being sent to a place you no longer check.

Replacing your license with the new address printed on it

Updating your address in the system doesn't print a new license — your current card still shows the old address. If you want a replacement license with the new address printed on it, you'll need to request a duplicate license through the DDS website, by mail, or in person. This costs money (the fee varies) and takes additional processing time.

For most purposes, having your address updated in the DDS system is enough. You only need a replacement license if you want the physical card to match your current address, such as for ID purposes or to avoid confusion when showing your license. Check the Georgia DDS website for current replacement license fees and processing times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to update my address if I'm moving out of state?

No. If you're moving out of Georgia, you'll need to get a driver's license from your new state instead. You cannot straightforward change the address on a Georgia license to an out-of-state address. Contact your new state's DMV to learn their process for getting a license.

How long does it take to process an address change by mail?

Mail processing typically takes one to two weeks from the date DDS receives your form. Mail delivery itself can add several days on each end, so allow three to four weeks total from when you mail the form to when you receive confirmation. Online changes are when ready, and in-person changes are same-day.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

Yes. You can update your address on an expired license through any of the three methods. However, if your license has been expired for more than a certain period, you may need to renew it as well, which involves additional steps and fees. Contact DDS at 678-413-8400 to confirm what you'll need to do.

What if I don't have a utility bill or lease to prove my new address?

Bank statements, mortgage statements, and recent government mail (from the IRS, Social Security, or other agencies) all count as proof if they show your name and new address and are dated within 60 days. If none of these are available, call DDS at 678-413-8400 to ask about alternatives for your specific situation.

Will my old license still work for driving after I change my address?

Yes. Your license remains valid for driving regardless of whether the address on it matches where you actually live. The address is just information on the card; it doesn't affect your driving privileges. However, updating your address in the system ensures official mail reaches you and keeps your record current.