You can change your Georgia driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a DDS office

Georgia allows you to update your address on your driver's license without renewing the entire license. 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 a form to DDS or visit a local office in person. The address change itself is free, though some methods require you to pay a small fee if you want a replacement card mailed to you.

Your address must match what the state has on file for your vehicle registration and insurance. If you've moved recently, updating your license address should happen within a reasonable timeframe — Georgia law does not set a specific important date, but your insurance company may require it, and law enforcement can cite you for providing false information if stopped.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method through the Georgia DDS website is the fastest and requires only your driver's license number, date of birth, and new address.
  • If you want a replacement card mailed to you, there is a fee (currently $20 for a standard card), but the address change itself costs nothing.
  • You can also mail Form DL-43 to the DDS address processing center, though this takes two to three weeks.
  • Visiting a DDS office in person lets you update your address when ready and receive a new card on the spot if you pay the replacement fee.
  • Your insurance company should be notified of your address change separately — updating your license does not automatically notify them.

Changing your address online through the DDS website

Go to dds.georgia.gov and look for the "Change of Address" option under the driver's license section. You will need your current Georgia driver's license number, your date of birth, and your new address. The system will verify your identity using information already in the DDS database.

Once you submit the change online, your address is updated in the state system when ready. However, you will still be carrying a license card with your old address printed on it. If you want a new card with the updated address, you can request one during the online process for a $20 fee, and it will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. If you do not request a replacement card, your license remains valid with the old address printed on it, but the state's records will show your current address.

Mailing a change of address form to DDS

read or request Form DL-43 (process for Replacement Driver's License) from the DDS website or any DDS office. Fill in your current license number, new address, and sign the form. Mail it to the address listed on the form — currently the DDS address processing center in Atlanta.

Processing by mail takes two to three weeks. You do not need to include payment unless you want a replacement card; if you do, include a check or money order for $20 made payable to the Georgia Department of Driver Services. Your new card will be mailed to the address you provide on the form.

Updating your address in person at a DDS office

Visit any DDS office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or other official document showing your name and current address dated within the last 60 days.

The office will update your address in the system when ready. If you want a replacement card printed on the spot, you pay $20 and walk out with a new card the same day. If you do not want a replacement card, the address change is free and takes about 10 minutes. DDS offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours; some locations have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Check the DDS website for office locations and hours near you.

What counts as proof of your new address

DDS accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. Common examples include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a government notice addressed to you. A letter from your employer or school with your name and address also works.

You do not need to bring the original document — a photocopy or printed email is acceptable. If you are changing your address online, you do not need to provide proof; the system verifies your identity using existing state records.

Updating your insurance and vehicle registration after changing your license address

Changing your driver's license address does not automatically update your auto insurance or vehicle registration. Contact your insurance company separately and provide your new address. Most insurers allow you to update this online, by phone, or through their mobile app.

For vehicle registration, you will need to update your address with the Georgia Department of Revenue when you renew your registration or when you move, depending on your state's rules. If you have recently moved, check whether Georgia requires you to update your registration address when ready or only at your next renewal. Your insurance company can tell you what address they have on file and what the state requires.

Timeline and what to expect after you submit your change

If you change your address online, the update appears in the state system within minutes. If you request a replacement card, it ships within 7 to 10 business days. If you visit an office in person and pay for a replacement card, you receive it when ready. If you mail a form, allow two to three weeks for processing.

Once your address is updated in the DDS system, you can use that updated information when dealing with law enforcement or other state agencies, even if your physical card still shows the old address. However, it is a good idea to carry proof of your new address (such as a utility bill) if you are stopped by police, so you can show that your address has changed if questioned.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to get a replacement card with my new address, or can I keep my old card?

You can keep your old card. The address change updates the state's records, and your license remains valid. A replacement card is optional and costs $20. Many people update the address in the system but keep their old card until it expires or they need a new one for another reason.

What if I move again before my replacement card arrives?

Contact DDS and provide your new address. If your replacement card has not yet shipped, they can redirect it. If it has already shipped, you can pick it up at a DDS office or request that it be held for you. Call the DDS customer service line or visit your local office to update your address again.

Can I change my address online if I have a commercial driver's license (CDL)?

CDL address changes must be done in person at a DDS office or by mail. The online method is available only for standard driver's licenses. Bring your CDL and proof of your new address to any DDS office, or mail Form DL-43 with your CDL number.

What happens if I do not update my address on my license?

Your license remains valid and you can continue to drive. However, if you are stopped by police and your address does not match where you are living, you may be asked to explain the discrepancy. It is not illegal to have an outdated address on your license, but keeping it current is a good practice for insurance and legal purposes.

Does changing my driver's license address update my vehicle registration automatically?

No. You must contact the Georgia Department of Revenue separately to update your vehicle registration address. Your insurance company must also be notified separately. The three systems — driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance — do not communicate with each other.