You can change your California driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at the DMV
The fastest way to update your address on a California driver's license is through the DMV's online system at dmv.ca.gov. You'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address. The change takes effect when ready, though your physical card won't update until your next renewal.
If you prefer not to go online, you can mail a completed form to the DMV or visit a local office in person. Each method takes different amounts of time and requires different documents, so the right choice depends on how soon you need the change recorded and whether you need a new card printed.
California requires you to notify the DMV of an address change within 10 days of moving. This is a legal requirement, not optional, even if you're not renewing your license yet. Failing to report the change can result in fines and may cause problems if you're pulled over or need to renew your registration.
Key Takeaways
- The DMV's online system at dmv.ca.gov is the fastest way to change your address and takes effect when ready.
- You must notify the DMV of an address change within 10 days of moving, whether or not you're renewing your license.
- Mailing a form (DL 43) takes one to two weeks; visiting a DMV office in person is fastest if you want a new card printed the same day.
- Your physical license card won't show the new address until your next renewal, but the DMV's records update right away.
- You'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and proof of your new address for any method.
Changing your address online through the DMV website
Go to dmv.ca.gov and select "Change Address" from the main menu. You'll be asked to enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and then prompt you to enter your new address.
Once you submit the change online, it's recorded in the DMV system when ready. You'll receive a confirmation email. Your driver's license itself won't be reprinted with the new address unless you request a replacement card or wait until your next renewal, but law enforcement and other agencies can see the updated address in the system right away.
The online method works only if your license is current and you haven't changed your name. If either of those is not true, you'll need to use the mail or in-person method instead.
Mailing a form to update your address
read or request the process for Duplicate or Replacement Driver's License or Identification Card (Form DL 43) from the DMV website. Fill out the form with your new address and mail it to the DMV address listed on the form. Include a copy of proof of your new address—a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days all work.
Processing by mail typically takes one to two weeks. You don't need to include your current license, and you won't receive a new card unless you specifically request one on the form. If you do request a replacement card, the DMV will mail it to your new address.
Keep a copy of what you mail for your records. The DMV does not always send confirmation, so having proof of what you submitted protects you if there's a question later about whether the change went through.
Visiting a DMV office in person
Bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address to any DMV office. Proof can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. You can also bring a bank statement, insurance policy, or official mail from a government agency if it shows your name and new address.
Tell the DMV representative you want to change your address. If you also want a new card printed with the updated address, ask for a replacement at the same time. A new card printed in person is usually ready the same day or within a few days, depending on the office's workload.
Visiting in person is the fastest way to get a new card with your updated address on it, but it requires a trip to the DMV. Check wait times at your local office on the DMV website before you go—some offices have much shorter waits than others, and you may be able to make an appointment online.
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), lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail all work. Bank statements, insurance policies, and official mail from a government agency also count if they're recent enough and show both your name and address.
You cannot use a piece of mail addressed to "Resident" or "Current Occupant," and you cannot use a post office change-of-address form. If you're moving to a new address but don't yet have a document in your name at that address, ask your landlord, property manager, or a family member who lives there to provide a notarized letter confirming your residency, along with a copy of their proof of address.
Updating your address if your license is expired or suspended
If your license is expired, you cannot use the online method to change your address. You'll need to mail the DL 43 form or visit a DMV office in person. Bring your expired license and proof of your new address.
If your license is suspended or revoked, the address change process is the same, but the DMV will not issue a new card until the suspension or revocation is lifted. You can still update your address in the system so that official records are correct, but you won't be able to drive legally until the suspension ends.
Timeline and what to expect after you change your address
| Method | Time to Update DMV Records | New Card Printed | What You Need |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online at dmv.ca.gov | when ready | Not until next renewal | License number, last 4 SSN digits, email |
| Mail Form DL 43 | 1–2 weeks | Only if requested on form | Form, proof of address, copy for your records |
| Visit DMV office | Same day | Same day or within days if requested | Current license, proof of address |
Once your address is updated in the DMV system, you don't need to do anything else. Your vehicle registration will still be valid at your old address until you renew it. When you renew your registration, update the address then as well—registration and driver's license addresses don't have to match, but keeping them the same prevents confusion.
If you move again, repeat the process within 10 days of your new move. There's no limit to how many times you can change your address, and the DMV doesn't charge a fee for address changes made online or by mail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my driver's license address if I already changed my vehicle registration address?
Yes. Your driver's license and vehicle registration are separate records, and the DMV requires you to update your license address within 10 days of moving, regardless of whether you've already updated your registration. Not doing so can result in fines.
What if I don't have a utility bill or lease at my new address yet?
Ask your landlord, property manager, or a family member living at the address to provide a notarized letter confirming you live there, along with a copy of their proof of address. Some DMV offices also accept a signed affidavit of residency if you explain the situation.
Will my old license still work if I change my address online but don't get a new card?
Yes. Your old card remains valid for driving and identification purposes. The DMV's records will show your new address, but the card itself won't update until you renew your license or request a replacement.
How much does it cost to change my address?
There is no fee to change your address online or by mail. If you visit a DMV office and request a replacement card with the new address printed on it, the fee is typically around $30, but confirm the current fee at your local office.
Can I change my address if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, as long as your driver's license is valid. The address change process is the same. If your license is expiring soon, you may need to renew it at the same time, which has different requirements depending on your immigration status.