You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at the DMV

California lets you update your driver's license address without renewing the entire license. The fastest route is the DMV's online system if your address change is within California and your license is not suspended or revoked. If you need to change your address and renew your license at the same time — because your license is expiring soon — you can do both in one transaction. The DMV processes address changes within 7 to 10 business days if you go online, and the same timeframe applies if you mail the form.

You do not need to visit a DMV office for an address change alone. However, if your license was issued outside California, if you have a commercial driver's license (CDL), or if your address is changing to a PO box, you will need to go in person or use mail.

Key Takeaways

  • The DMV's online address change tool is the fastest method and works only if your California license is valid and not suspended.
  • You can mail Form DL 43 (Change of Address) to the DMV with a copy of your ID and proof of your new address, and the change takes 7 to 10 business days.
  • If you are changing your address and your license expires within 60 days, you can renew and change your address together in one visit or online transaction.
  • Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days showing your new address.
  • If you have a CDL or your license was issued outside California, you must visit a DMV office or mail your request — the online tool will not work.

Changing your address online through the DMV website

Go to the DMV's official website and select "Change Address" under the driver's license section. You will need your California driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will ask you to enter your new address and confirm it. Once you submit, the DMV sends you a confirmation email.

This method works only if your license is valid, not suspended, and was issued in California. If your license expired more than five years ago, the online tool will reject your request and you will need to renew instead. The address change itself is free, and you do not receive a new physical card — your current license remains valid at your old address until it expires or you renew it.

Mailing Form DL 43 to the DMV

read Form DL 43 (Change of Address) from the DMV website or pick one up at any DMV office. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Attach a copy of your driver's license (front and back) and one document proving your new address. Mail the form to the DMV address listed on the form itself — the address varies by region, so check the form before you send it.

Processing takes 7 to 10 business days from the date the DMV receives your envelope. You do not need to include payment. Like the online method, you will not receive a new card; your existing license remains valid. If you are moving out of state, this form does not work — you will need to explore for a new license in your new state.

What counts as proof of your new address

The DMV accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, or government mail (tax notice, voter registration, court document) all work. A bank statement or credit card statement does not count. A letter from your employer or school with your address on it does not count either.

If you cannot get a document in your name at your new address within 60 days — for example, if you just moved and utilities have not been set up yet — you can use a notarized statement from someone who lives with you, or a lease signed by both you and your landlord. The document must be an original or certified copy, not a photo or screenshot.

Changing your address when your license is expiring soon

If your license expires within 60 days and you need to change your address, you can renew and update your address in the same transaction. Online, select "Renew and Change Address" instead of "Change Address Only." By mail, use Form DL 44 (Driver's License process) instead of Form DL 43, and include both your proof of address and the renewal fee (currently $39 for a standard four-year renewal, though this amount changes periodically).

Renewing and changing your address together takes the same 7 to 10 business days as an address change alone. You will receive a new physical card in the mail at your new address. If your license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew by mail — you must visit a DMV office in person.

When you must visit a DMV office in person

If your California driver's license is suspended or revoked, the online tool will not work and you cannot use the mail method either. You must visit a DMV office. The same applies if your license was issued outside California, if you hold a CDL, or if you are changing your address to a PO box (which requires verification that you do not have a residential address).

If your license expired more than five years ago and you want to renew at the same time, you also need to go in person. Make an appointment through the DMV website before you visit — walk-ins are accepted but wait times are longer. Bring your current license, proof of your new address, and any other documents the DMV lists for your specific situation.

What happens to your old address after you change it

Once the DMV processes your address change, your old address is removed from the system. Any mail the DMV sends you — renewal notices, replacement cards, or notices about violations — will go to your new address. If you are concerned about mail going to your old address, contact the new resident or the property manager and ask them to forward DMV mail to you.

Your driver's license itself does not change. The physical card still shows your old address until you renew your license. Law enforcement and businesses can see your current address in the DMV system, but the card in your wallet will not reflect the change until you get a new one. This is normal and does not affect the validity of your license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my address on my license if I move within California?

Yes. California law requires you to notify the DMV of an address change within 10 days of moving. However, the DMV does not penalize you if you do not report it when ready. Your license remains valid even if the address is outdated, but it is best to update it so the DMV has your correct address for renewal notices and official mail.

What if I moved and did not get a document with my new address yet?

Wait until you have a utility bill, lease, or government mail dated within the last 60 days showing your new address. If you need to change your address urgently and cannot wait, visit a DMV office with a notarized statement from someone who lives with you confirming your address. This counts as proof.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended?

No, the online tool and mail method will not work if your license is suspended. You must visit a DMV office in person. Bring your current license, proof of your new address, and any documents related to why your license is suspended (such as proof that you paid a traffic fine or completed a required course).

How long does it take to get a new card with my new address?

If you are only changing your address, you do not get a new card — your current card remains valid. If you renew your license at the same time, the new card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. The card will show your new address.

What if I move out of California?

You cannot change your California address to an out-of-state address using the DMV's address change process. You must explore for a driver's license in your new state. Once you have a valid license from that state, you can surrender your California license to avoid duplicate licenses.