Whether you’ve moved down the block or across the country, your new Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) — or RMV (Registry of Motor Vehicles), BMV (Bureau of Motor Vehicles), or DOT (Department of Transportation) in some states — will almost certainly require you to notify them of your address change.
It’s understandable that adding “find out how to update my driver’s license” to your moving to-do list isn’t appealing. However, with this DMV change of address guide, you’ll have all the information you need.
It’s critical not to put off changing your driver’s license address. Most states have stringent deadlines for entering your current information into their systems. We’ll go over how that procedure works based on where you’re relocating from and where you’re going.
Is a new driver’s license required once you relocate?
It depends on where you’re relocating whether or not you’ll need a new driver’s license. Let’s look at the differences between in-state and out-of-state moves.
If I move in-state, do I need a new driver’s license?
With an in-state move, different states have different requirements for getting a replacement driver’s license. At the very least, every state requires you to change your address with the DMV, which may or may not result in a new driver’s license. This permits the DMV to properly register your vehicle and guarantees that you receive critical correspondence (such as future registration reminders) at your new location. What’s the good news? The majority of DMVs let you to make this adjustment online.
If I relocate to a new state, do I need a new driver’s license?
The issue is very different if you relocated to a new state. You might be thinking, “Can you live in one state and have a driver’s license in another?” to save time on the front end of your relocation.
Although there are rare exceptions, the answer is usually no (college students, for example, might be off the hook). In general, your new state’s DMV will require you to obtain a local driver’s license and re-register your vehicle with them within a particular time frame (usually 30, 60, or 90 days).
Locating your nearest DMV and establishing how much time you have to alter your license is a top priority, whether you moved down the street or to a new state. Here are some pointers on how to achieve both.
Where can you find your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)?
Each state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (or RMV, BMV, or DOT) is a government agency. Instead of having a state-wide DMV, each county in Hawaii has its own.
The local DMV is in charge of issuing driver’s licenses and car registrations, as well as ensuring that they are current. You may thank them for the bright sticker that you replace every year on your license plate.
Gather the necessary papers as well as personal information.
You may still have one question now that you know when to renew your driver’s license. How do you go about changing your driver’s license address? The type of change you need to make to your driver’s license will determine how to update it.
If you’ve recently relocated inside your state, check your state’s DMV website to see if you may complete your DMV change of address online. Typically, this entails completing an online form.
However, if you need to go to the DMV, be sure you have all of the necessary paperwork. To guarantee a smooth and successful visit, bring the following items:
Personal identification documents: To expedite the process, bring your social security card and passport with you. Bring your legal name change document (e.g., your married license) with you if the name on your driver’s license differs from the name on your card (e.g., since you’re married and took your partner’s last name).
Documents pertaining to residency: At least two documents verifying your residency in the state are usually required. Bills or statements from reliable companies are your best bet (e.g., auto insurance bills, mortgage statements). Ensure that these documents include your entire name as well as your current address.
Insurance documentation: Before issuing you a new license, some states need proof that your car is insured to the state’s requirements. Bring your insurance cards or some other form of evidence of coverage.
State-by-state documentation needs can differ. Before your DMV appointment, do a quick Google check to make sure you have all of the appropriate documentation.
You may be required to fill out additional documentation while visiting the DMV, such as a driver’s license application or a change of address form. You should have no trouble filling in the appropriate fields with the above materials.
What to Expect When You Visit the DMV
In terms of operations and efficiency, DMVs have come a long way. DMV visits are shorter now that more services are available online and appointments can be scheduled.
If you’re concerned about extended wait times, making an appointment is the best option. This allows you to bypass the first-come, first-served portion of the process, reducing your wait time. It’s still a good idea to arrive a few minutes early for your appointment because some DMVs have unique sections for different transactions, and you’ll want to be sure you’re standing or sitting in the proper place.
Be prepared for some testing if you’re getting a new license. This could involve the following:
Examination of vision
A written driver’s examination
A driving test behind the wheel
Many state DMVs offer practice exams online so you can brush up on the rules of the road if you’re anxious about a future test.
A charge is frequently associated with obtaining a new license. The majority of states charge between $20 and $40 for new licenses, however this varies. You should be able to find out how much the new license will cost you by searching online or calling your local DMV. Pay attention to the sorts of payments that your DMV allows (e.g., cash, check, credit card).
You may need to take additional measures to obtain a new driver’s license after relocating.
Calling your auto insurance company is the final step in the process. Remember how we said you might have to produce proof of insurance at the DMV? To make that happen, you’ll need to contact your insurance provider. After all, you don’t want to be caught driving without insurance. You can utilize our instructions to getting coverage without a license if you don’t have a license in your new state yet.
If you call your insurer, they should be able to change your policy to reflect your new address. If you moved within the state, this should be a straightforward modification, although it may have a minor impact on your rate.
If you’ve relocated, ask your insurer if your insurance can be transferred to your new home state. If they are unable to do so, you will need to find a new insurance provider and obtain a policy that will cover your vehicle in your new home state.
If you need to visit the DMV in person to receive a new license, bring your proof of insurance with you.
The food that was delivered
Moving is stressful enough, and adding upgrading your driver’s license to the mix may be much more so. However, it is beneficial to take care of it as soon as possible:
You may need to declare your change of address as soon as feasible if you moved within the state.
If you’ve recently moved to a new state, you’ll need to receive a replacement driver’s license within 30–90 days.
This process is significantly easier now that you can get information, update your license, and schedule appointments online.
