Change your Georgia driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a DDS office
Georgia lets you update your address without renewing your license. You can do this through the Department of Driver Services (DDS) website, by mail, or by visiting a DDS office in person. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you move to Georgia from another state, you'll need to get a Georgia license rather than just change an address.
Your address must match what the DDS has on file before you can register a vehicle or renew your license. If you've moved and haven't updated it, the DDS will mail renewal notices and vehicle registration documents to your old address, which can cause delays or missed important date.
Key Takeaways
- The DDS online portal lets you change your address in minutes at no cost, and the change takes effect when ready.
- You need your Georgia driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to change your address online.
- If you can't use the online method, you can mail a completed form or visit any DDS office with your current license and proof of your new address.
- Address changes do not renew your license — your expiration date stays the same, and you'll still need to renew when that date arrives.
- If you moved from out of state, you must obtain a Georgia license within 30 days; a straightforward address change won't work.
Changing your address online through the DDS website
Go to dds.georgia.gov and select "Change Address" from the main menu. You'll be asked to log in or create an account. Have your Georgia driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number ready. The system will verify your identity using this information.
Enter your new address exactly as you want it to appear on your license. Double-check the spelling and ZIP code — the DDS uses this address for all future mail. Once you submit, you'll receive a confirmation on screen. The change is effective when ready, though your physical license card still shows the old address until you renew it.
If the online system won't accept your information, it usually means the DDS records don't match what you entered. Call the DDS at 678-413-8400 to verify your information before trying again.
Mailing a form to update your address
read the Form DL 43 (process for Duplicate License) from the DDS website or pick one up at any DDS office. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Include a copy of your current Georgia driver's license (front and back) 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 form and documents to the address listed on the form. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after the DDS receives it. You won't get a new card; your old one remains valid until your license expires. Keep a copy of what you mail for your records.
Updating your address in person at a DDS office
Visit any DDS office with your current Georgia driver's license and one document showing your new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement from the last 60 days). Tell the staff member you want to change your address. They'll update your record on the spot, and the change takes effect when ready.
You don't need an appointment for an address change at most offices, but wait times vary. Check the DDS office locator on dds.georgia.gov to find the office nearest you and see current wait times. Bring your license and address proof — nothing else is required.
What counts as proof of your new address
The DDS accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. These include utility bills (electric, gas, water, or internet), a signed lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a government-issued document like a tax return or voter registration card. A piece of mail from a government agency also works.
The document must have your full name and the complete address you're registering. A utility bill in someone else's name won't work, even if you live there. If you're having trouble finding an acceptable document, call the DDS at 678-413-8400 to ask what they'll accept in your situation.
If you moved from another state to Georgia
You cannot straightforward change your address if you moved to Georgia from out of state. Georgia law requires you to obtain a Georgia driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency. You'll need to visit a DDS office, pass a vision test, and provide proof of your new Georgia address, proof of Social Security number, and proof of identity. Your out-of-state license remains valid during those 30 days, but after that it cannot be used to drive in Georgia.
Bring your current out-of-state license, one document showing your Georgia address (utility bill, lease, or similar), your Social Security card or a document with your Social Security number, and a document proving your identity (passport, military ID, or birth certificate). The DDS will issue you a new Georgia license on the spot or mail it to you within 7 to 10 business days, depending on the office.
Address changes and vehicle registration
Your vehicle registration is tied to the address on your driver's license. If you change your license address, your vehicle registration address updates automatically in the DDS system. You don't need to file a separate form or pay a fee. However, if you registered your vehicle under a different address, you should update your license first to avoid confusion when you renew your registration.
When you renew your vehicle registration, the DDS will mail the renewal notice to the address on your driver's license. If your license address is outdated, you might miss the renewal important date. Updating your license address before you renew your vehicle registration prevents this problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does changing my address renew my driver's license?
No. An address change does not renew your license or extend your expiration date. Your license expires on the same date it always did. You'll still need to renew your license when that date arrives. The address change only updates where the DDS sends mail to you.
How long does it take to change my address online?
The online process takes about 10 minutes. The change takes effect when ready once you submit it. You'll see a confirmation on screen, and your address is updated in the DDS system right away, even though your physical card still shows the old address.
What if I don't have a document showing my new address?
You need one document dated within the last 60 days with your name and address on it. If you can't find one, call the DDS at 678-413-8400 to ask what alternatives they accept. Some offices may accept a notarized statement of residency or a letter from a landlord or property manager in certain situations.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
Yes. You can change your address even if your license is suspended or revoked. The address change doesn't affect your suspension or revocation status. However, you cannot drive legally until your license is reinstated. Contact the DDS to learn what steps you need to take to reinstate your license.
Will changing my address affect my insurance?
Your insurance company may need to know about your address change, but updating your DDS address doesn't automatically notify them. Contact your insurance agent or company directly to report your move. Some insurers adjust your rates based on your new location, so it's important to tell them promptly.