You can change your Tennessee driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a Driver Services Center

Tennessee lets you update your address without renewing your license early. The fastest route is the online system at tn.gov/safety/driverlicense, which takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you prefer not to use the website, you can mail a form to the Nashville Driver Services office or walk into any Driver Services Center with proof of your new address.

Your address change takes effect when ready online or within a few business days by mail. You do not need to surrender your current license or pay a fee. The address on your license must match your current residence — Tennessee law requires this for vehicle registration and insurance purposes.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change at tn.gov/safety/driverlicense is free and the fastest option, with no appointment needed.
  • You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and proof of your new address to change it online.
  • In-person changes at a Driver Services Center require a government-issued ID and a document showing your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Mail-in changes use form DL 43 and take longer but work if you cannot visit a center or use the website.
  • Your address must match your vehicle registration address, so update both if you have moved.

Changing your address online

The online system is open 24 hours and requires your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. You will also need to answer security questions based on your driving record and personal history. The system confirms your change when ready and sends a confirmation email.

After you complete the online change, your address updates in the Tennessee system right away. You do not receive a new physical license card — your current license remains valid with the old address printed on it until you renew. However, the address in the state database matches your new location, which is what matters for registration, insurance, and law enforcement records.

Changing your address in person at a Driver Services Center

Walk-ins are accepted at all Driver Services Centers across Tennessee. Bring your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A government-issued ID (passport, military ID, or state ID) also helps speed the process, though your driver's license usually counts.

The staff member will update your address in the system while you wait. You leave with the same license card, but your address is now changed in the state database. The process takes 10 to 15 minutes. Driver Services Centers are located in Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis, Chattanooga, and other major cities — check tn.gov/safety/driverlicense for hours and locations near you.

Changing your address by mail

Request form DL 43 (Address Change) from the Tennessee Driver Services office or read it from tn.gov/safety/driverlicense. Fill out the form with your name, driver's license number, and new address. Include a copy of one document showing your new address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement works. Do not send your original license.

Mail the completed form and address proof to the Nashville Driver Services office. The address is listed on the form itself. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after they receive your envelope. You will not receive a confirmation call or email, but your address will be updated in the state system. Keep a copy of what you mailed in case you need to follow up.

What counts as proof of your new address

Tennessee accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. Utility bills (electric, gas, water), lease agreements, mortgage statements, and bank statements all work. Insurance bills, property tax notices, and government mail also count. The document must be an original or certified copy — photos or screenshots are not accepted for in-person or mail changes, though the online system does not require physical proof.

If you moved into a new home but have not yet received mail there, ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your move-in date and address. Some Driver Services Centers will accept this if you also bring your lease. Call ahead to confirm what your local center will take.

Updating your vehicle registration after changing your license address

Your driver's license address and vehicle registration address should match. If you have moved, update your vehicle registration at the same time or shortly after. You can renew your vehicle registration online at tn.gov/revenue, by mail, or at your county clerk's office. You will need your current registration card, proof of insurance, and proof of your new address — the same documents work for both the license and registration.

If your registration and license address do not match, you may have problems with insurance claims or law enforcement stops. Some insurance companies will not process claims if the address on file does not match your license. Update both within 30 days of moving to avoid complications.

Timeline and what to expect

Online changes are when ready — your address updates in the state system as soon as you finish. In-person changes take 10 to 15 minutes and are effective when ready. Mail-in changes take 7 to 10 business days after the office receives your form, plus mail delivery time both ways, so plan for 2 to 3 weeks total.

You will not receive a new license card with your updated address unless you renew your license. Your current card remains valid and will show your old address until it expires. The address in the state database is what law enforcement and insurance companies see, so the printed address on your card does not matter for legal purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my address if I moved out of state?

No. If you moved to another state, you should get a driver's license from that state instead of updating your Tennessee address. You can keep your Tennessee license if you plan to return, but most states require you to get a local license within 30 to 60 days of moving there.

What if I do not have a document showing my new address?

If you just moved and have not received mail yet, ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on their letterhead with your move-in date and address. Some Driver Services Centers will accept this along with your lease. Call your local center first to confirm they will take it.

Will changing my address affect my driving record or points?

No. Changing your address does not touch your driving record, points, or license status. It only updates where the state sends mail and where law enforcement records show you live.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended or expired?

You can change your address online or by mail even if your license is suspended or expired. In-person changes at a Driver Services Center may be refused if your license status is not valid — call ahead to ask. The online system does not check license status, so that is your best option.

How long does my address change stay in the system?

Your address change is permanent until you change it again. When you renew your license, the address on your new card will show your current address on file. If you move again before renewal, update your address again through any of the three methods.