Where to report your address change

You report an address change to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency — the same office that issued your registration. Most states now let you do this online through their DMV website, by mail, or in person at a local office. A few states require you to appear in person, so check your state's DMV site first to see which methods are available to you.

The speed matters because your registration documents and renewal notices will go to your old address if you do not update it. If you move and do not report the change, you may miss renewal important date or receive tickets for expired registration without knowing it.

You do not need to re-register your vehicle or get new plates in most cases — you are just updating the address on file. Some states will send you updated registration documents by mail once the change is processed; others will straightforward note it in their system.

Key Takeaways

  • Contact your state DMV through their website, by phone, or in person to find out whether you can change your address online, by mail, or must visit an office.
  • Have your current registration document and driver's license ready, and know your old and new addresses.
  • Processing times range from a few days to several weeks depending on whether you use online, mail, or in-person methods.
  • Update your address as soon as you move to avoid missing renewal notices and registration-related mail.
  • Some states charge a small fee for address changes; others do it at no cost.

What you need before you start

Gather your current vehicle registration document and your driver's license. You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN), which appears on your registration and on the dashboard of your car. You will also need both your old address (the one currently on file) and your new address.

If you have moved recently but have not yet updated your driver's license address, that is separate from your vehicle registration — you will need to handle both. Some states let you do both at once online; others require separate transactions. Check your state DMV website to see whether updating your driver's license address affects your registration process.

Online address changes

Most states now offer online address changes through their DMV website. Log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, or create an account if you do not have one. You will enter your VIN, current address, and new address, then submit the form. Some states ask you to upload a photo of your registration document or driver's license to verify your identity.

Online changes usually process within a few days to a week. You will receive a confirmation email, and your registration documents may be reissued and mailed to your new address, or the change may be recorded in the system without new documents being sent. Check your state's DMV site to see what to expect after you submit.

Not all states offer online address changes, and some limit them to certain vehicle types or registration statuses. If your state does not offer this option, you will need to use mail or in-person methods.

Mailing in your address change

If you prefer to mail your change, visit your state DMV website and read the address change form — it is usually called something like "Change of Address" or "Registration Update." Fill it out with your VIN, old address, new address, and signature. Include a copy of your registration document and driver's license (front and back).

Mail the form and documents to the address listed on your state's DMV website. Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks, depending on how busy your state's DMV is. Keep a copy of everything you send for your records.

Some states accept address changes by mail without requiring copies of your documents — check your state's specific instructions before you send anything. A few states charge a small fee for mailed address changes; most do not.

In-person address changes at a DMV office

If you visit a DMV office in person, bring your current registration document, driver's license, and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and new address on it. Some offices accept a bank statement or insurance document as well — call ahead to confirm what your local office accepts.

In-person changes are usually processed on the spot or within a few days. You may receive updated registration documents when ready, or they may be mailed to you. Ask the staff member what to expect before you leave.

Wait times at DMV offices vary widely. Some offices have online appointment systems that let you book a time slot; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check your state's DMV website to see whether your local office takes appointments and whether you can book one online.

What happens after you report the change

Once your address change is processed, your registration file is updated. Any future renewal notices, registration documents, or DMV mail will go to your new address. If your registration is set to renew soon, the renewal notice will be mailed to your new address — as long as the change is processed before the notice is sent.

If you moved partway through a registration period and your renewal is coming up, update your address as soon as possible. If the renewal notice goes to your old address and you do not receive it, you may miss the important date without realizing it.

Keep your updated registration document in your vehicle once you receive it. If you were not issued new documents, the change is still recorded in the DMV system, and a police officer can verify it if you are stopped.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to get new license plates when I change my address?

No. An address change does not require new plates. Your plates stay the same; only the address on file with the DMV is updated. Some states may reissue your registration card or document, but your plates remain valid.

What if I moved to a different state?

If you moved out of state, you will need to register your vehicle in your new state rather than straightforward changing your address. This is a separate process that involves getting new plates and a new registration. Contact your new state's DMV for their registration requirements and timeline.

How long does an address change take?

Online changes usually process within a few days to a week. Mailed changes take two to four weeks. In-person changes at a DMV office may be processed when ready or within a few days, depending on the office. Check your state's DMV website for specific timelines.

What if I did not receive my renewal notice at my new address?

Contact your state DMV to confirm your address is updated in their system. If the renewal notice was already mailed to your old address before your change was processed, ask the DMV whether you can renew online or by phone. Do not let your registration expire — contact the DMV right away.

Is there a fee to change my address?

Most states do not charge a fee for address changes. A few states charge a small fee (usually under $10) for mailed or in-person changes. Check your state's DMV website or call their customer service line to confirm whether there is a fee in your state.