Where to update your address and what the DMV needs
You can update your address with the Oregon DMV online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. The online method is fastest — you go to the Oregon DMV website, log into your account, and change your address yourself in minutes. By mail, you send a completed form to the address listed on the DMV's website along with proof of your new address. In person, you walk into any DMV office with your ID and proof of address, and staff update it on the spot.
The DMV needs two things: your current driver's license or ID number, and proof that you actually live at the new address. Proof means a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days showing your name and new address. If you're updating the address on your vehicle registration at the same time, bring your registration card as well.
Your address change takes effect when ready online or in person. By mail, allow 7 to 10 business days after the DMV receives your form. You do not need to renew your license or registration to change your address — this is a separate transaction.
Key Takeaways
- The Oregon DMV online portal is the fastest way to update your address if you have an account set up.
- You must provide proof of your new address dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
- Updating your address does not require you to renew your license or registration early.
- In-person updates at a DMV office take effect when ready, while mail-in updates take 7 to 10 business days.
- Your vehicle registration address and driver's license address can be updated separately or together.
Updating online through your DMV account
Go to the Oregon DMV website and select the option to manage your driver's license or ID. You'll need to log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, or create an account if you don't have one. Once logged in, look for the address change option in your account settings.
Enter your new address exactly as it appears on your proof document — street number, street name, apartment or unit number if applicable, city, state, and ZIP code. Double-check for spelling errors, because the DMV will mail your renewed license to this address when it comes due. After you submit, you'll see a confirmation message. Your address is updated when ready in the DMV system, though you won't receive a new card unless your license or ID is due for renewal.
Updating by mail with form DMV 735
read or request form DMV 735 (Address Change) from the Oregon DMV website or by calling the DMV at 503-945-6353. Fill in your current name, driver's license number, and new address. Include a copy of your proof of address — do not send the original document, as the DMV will not return it.
Mail the completed form and proof to the address shown on the form itself, usually the DMV's central office in Salem. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you want written confirmation of the change. The DMV will process your form within 7 to 10 business days and mail you a confirmation letter to your new address.
Updating in person at a DMV office
Bring your current driver's license or ID card and your proof of address to any Oregon DMV office. You do not need an appointment for an address change — walk-in service is available. Hand both documents to the staff member at the counter.
The DMV will verify your information, update your address in the system, and give you a receipt showing the change took effect. You'll keep your current license card; the new address will appear on your next renewal. If you also need to update your vehicle registration address, you can do that at the same visit if you bring your registration card.
Updating your vehicle registration address separately
Your vehicle registration address and driver's license address do not have to match. If you only need to change the address on your registration, you can do that without changing your license address. Use form DMV 735 or the online portal, but specify that you're updating registration only.
If you're renewing your registration soon, you can change the address as part of that renewal instead of doing it separately. The DMV will ask for your new address when you renew, and you can update it then without paying an extra fee.
What happens if you don't update your address
The DMV will continue to mail your renewal notices and new license cards to your old address. If you move and don't update, you may miss renewal important date because the notice never reaches you. Driving on an expired license is illegal in Oregon, even if you didn't receive the renewal notice.
If your vehicle registration renewal notice goes to your old address and you miss the important date, your registration will expire and you cannot legally drive the vehicle. Updating your address before you move prevents these problems. If you've already moved and didn't update, contact the DMV right away to change your address and ask about your renewal status.
Proof of address documents the DMV accepts
The DMV accepts utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax statements, and government mail from federal, state, or local agencies. The document must show your name and your new address, and it must be dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or credit card statement with your name and address also works.
If you don't have a document in your name at your new address yet — for example, you just moved and utilities haven't been set up — contact the DMV before you visit. Staff can tell you what alternative documents they can accept, such as a signed lease with a move-in date or a utility company letter confirming your account setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update my address if my license is expired?
Yes. An expired license is still valid ID for an address change. You can update your address online, by mail, or in person even if your license has expired. However, you should renew your license soon after, because you cannot legally drive with an expired license.
Do I need to update my address before I move or after?
You can update before or after you move. Updating before you move is better because it ensures renewal notices go to your new address. If you've already moved, update as soon as possible to avoid missing renewal important date.
Will I get a new license card with my new address?
No. An address change alone does not trigger a new card. Your current license card remains valid. You'll receive a new card with your updated address when your license comes due for renewal, or if you request a replacement card for a fee.
How long does an address change take if I do it online?
Online address changes take effect when ready. Your new address is in the DMV system right away, though you won't see it on a physical card until your next renewal. Mail-in changes take 7 to 10 business days.
What if I move again before my license renews?
Update your address again with the DMV using the same method. You can change your address as many times as needed. Each update replaces the previous one in the system.