Change your registration address through your state's DMV, either online, by mail, or in person

You need to update your car registration when you move to a new address. Most states let you do this online through their DMV website, which is the fastest route — usually taking a few minutes and costing $5 to $15. If your state doesn't offer online updates, you can mail a form to the DMV or visit a local office in person. The exact process, cost, and timeline depend on which state issued your registration.

The key difference from a full registration renewal is that you're only changing the address on file, not renewing the registration itself. You don't need a new inspection or emissions test. You do need your current registration card, your driver's license, and proof of your new address — typically a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states allow you to change your registration address online through the DMV website in minutes, with a fee of $5 to $15.
  • You'll need your current registration card, driver's license, and a recent document showing your new address — usually a utility bill or lease.
  • If you move to a different state, you must register your vehicle in that state within 30 to 60 days, which is a full re-registration, not just an address change.
  • Mail-in address changes typically take two to four weeks; in-person visits at a DMV office usually process the same day.
  • Some states charge a small fee for address changes; others include it in your next renewal or charge nothing.

Online address change through your state DMV

Start by visiting your state's DMV website and looking for a link labeled "change address," "update registration," or "manage my registration." Most states now offer this service online. You'll log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, or create an account if you don't have one. The form asks for your current registration number, your new address, and sometimes a phone number or email.

After you submit the form and pay the fee (usually $5 to $15 by credit or debit card), the DMV sends you a confirmation email with a receipt number. Your updated registration card arrives by mail within one to three weeks. During this time, your old registration card is still valid — you don't need to carry anything else. Keep the confirmation email or receipt number in case the DMV asks about the change later.

Not all states offer online address changes. If your state's DMV website doesn't have this option, you'll need to use the mail or in-person route. Check your state's DMV homepage under "registration services" or call the main DMV number to confirm whether online updates are available.

Mailing an address change form to the DMV

If you prefer to mail your address change, read the form from your state's DMV website. The form is usually called "process for Registration" or "Change of Address" and is free to read as a PDF. Fill in your current registration number, vehicle identification number (VIN), and new address. Sign and date the form, then mail it along with your current registration card and a copy of your proof of address to the address listed on the form.

Include a check or money order for the fee if your state charges one. Do not send cash. Mail the envelope to the address printed on the DMV form — this is usually a regional processing center, not a local office. Processing takes two to four weeks from the date the DMV receives it. Mail can be slow, so consider sending it certified mail if you need proof of delivery.

Keep a copy of everything you mail for your records. If you don't receive your updated registration card within five weeks, contact the DMV with your confirmation number or the date you mailed the form.

In-person address change at a DMV office

Visit your local DMV office with your current registration card, driver's license, and proof of your new address. Bring the original proof-of-address document or a certified copy — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works. Some offices also accept a government letter with your new address, such as a voter registration confirmation.

Check your state's DMV website for office hours and whether you need an appointment. Many states now require you to book a time slot online rather than walk in. If appointments are full, you may have to wait several days or visit a different office. The office staff will complete the address change on the spot, and you'll receive a temporary registration document or receipt. Your new registration card arrives by mail within one to three weeks.

In-person visits are useful if you're moving within the same state and want the change processed when ready, or if you're unsure whether you have the right documents. The staff can tell you on the spot if something is missing.

Moving to a different state requires full re-registration

If you move to a different state, you cannot straightforward change your address on your current registration. You must register your vehicle in the new state within 30 to 60 days of moving — the exact important date varies by state. This is a full re-registration, not an address change, and it involves a new title, new registration card, and often a new inspection or emissions test.

Start by contacting the DMV in your new state to learn what documents you'll need. Most states require your current title, proof of ownership, proof of insurance, proof of residency (your new address), and a completed registration process. Some states also require an emissions test or safety inspection before they'll issue a new registration. Fees for out-of-state registration typically range from $50 to $200, depending on the state and vehicle type.

You can usually start the process online or by mail before you move, but you'll need to visit a DMV office in person to complete it. After your new state issues a registration, notify your old state's DMV that you've moved. Some states ask you to surrender your old registration card; others handle this automatically.

What documents you need for an address change

The core documents are your current registration card, your driver's license, and proof of your new address. Proof of address must be an original document or certified copy dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank or credit card statement. Some states also accept a government letter, such as a voter registration confirmation or a letter from a government agency.

If you're changing the address online, you won't mail physical documents — you'll enter the information into the form. If you're mailing or visiting in person, bring the originals. Do not send your registration card or driver's license by mail unless the DMV specifically asks you to; keep these in your wallet. Make copies of everything you mail for your records.

If your name has changed since your registration was issued, bring a document proving the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you're updating the address for a vehicle registered to a business, bring the business registration or articles of incorporation.

Timeline and fees for address changes

Online address changes are the fastest: you'll have confirmation within minutes and your new card within one to three weeks. Mail-in changes take two to four weeks from the date the DMV receives your form, plus mail time on both ends — plan for four to six weeks total. In-person visits at a DMV office process the same day, and you'll receive a temporary document or receipt when ready; your new card arrives by mail within one to three weeks.

Fees vary by state. Some states charge $5 to $15 for an address change. Others include the fee in your next registration renewal or charge nothing at all. A few states charge more if you're changing the address for a commercial vehicle or a vehicle registered to a business. Check your state's DMV website or call the main DMV number to confirm the fee before you submit your form.

If you need your new registration card urgently, ask the DMV office whether they can issue a temporary registration or expedited card for an additional fee. Some states offer this service; others do not.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive my car while my address change is being processed?

Yes. Your old registration card remains valid during the address change process. You don't need to carry anything else or notify law enforcement. Drive normally until your new card arrives.

What if I move before I update my registration address?

Update your address as soon as possible after you move. Most states require you to notify the DMV within 10 to 30 days of moving. If you're pulled over before you update, you may receive a warning or citation for having an outdated registration. The fine varies by state but is usually $25 to $100.

Do I need to update my address if I move within the same city?

Yes. Even if you stay in the same city or county, you must update your registration address with the DMV. The address on your registration should match your current residence.

What if my proof of address document is older than 60 days?

Most DMVs will not accept proof of address older than 60 days. If your newest document is older, get a recent utility bill, bank statement, or lease in your name. If you can't obtain a recent document, contact your DMV office to ask what alternatives they accept — some may allow a letter from a landlord or government agency instead.

Do I need to change my address if I'm only moving temporarily?

If you're moving for more than 30 days, update your address. If you're moving for less than 30 days, you can wait. However, if you're moving to a different state permanently or for an extended period, you must register your vehicle in that state within 30 to 60 days, regardless of how long you plan to stay.