Your Complete Guide to California DMV Change of Address

Whether you’re moving to California from another state or changing cities within the state, you’ll need to update the address on your driver’s license. So how can you notify a change of address with the California DMV? Here’s how to do it. 

Sunny California is too pretty to stay in one place for long! It’s common for Californians to move cities once every few years and explore new horizons. When they do, they will most likely take their car along for the ride! What should you do to update your driver’s license with your new address? 

We break down that and more in this guide to changing your address with the California DMV.  

Is it important to notify the California DMV of a change of address?   

Yes, any change in residence needs to be officially recognized by the California DMV. It’s important for them to know where to reach you in case you have unpaid tickets, traffic violations, and more. Any delay in receiving these official notifications and coughing up fines can result in even heftier fines and jail time for you. Besides, the car insurance company will also need your updated address for any future communication. 

Also read: Why should I change the address on my driver’s license after I move?

Procedure to update California DMV address if moving within California 

Process 

 If you are moving from one address to another within the State of California, you will already have a California driver’s license. All you need to do is to update your DMV address either online, by mail, or in person.  

1. If you want to update it online, you can do so by visiting the official website of the California DMV and filling up the ‘Change of Address’ form. However, you cannot update your address online if: 

• You do not have a California Driver’s License 
• You don’t have a Social Security Number
• Have a commercial driver’s license issued by California DMV but you reside outside the state
• Your new address is outside the United States
• You have an Army/Fleet post office address

2. To update your address by mail, first download and complete the DMV14 form. Once filled, you can mail it to:

DMV CHANGE OF ADDRESS,

P.O. Box 942859,

Sacramento, CA 94259-0001

3. To update your address in person, fill in the DMV14 form and take it to the local DMV. It will take around 3 working days for them to update it in the system and for it to reflect on your record.

Documents required 

• Current driver’s license
• Proof of old residence (utility bills)
• Social security number
• Valid US passport or birth certificate (to prove your date of birth)

You may also need to update the new address on the vehicle registration, for which you’ll need:

• Most recent registration document
• Your address
• VIN
• Proof of residence

Time limit to update your address

You have to update the new address with the California DMV within 10 days.

Are there any fees for updating your address?

No, there are no fees to update your new address if you’re moving within California.  

Procedure to change address with California DMV if moving to California from another state  

Process 

 If you are moving from another state to California, you will have to apply for a new California driver’s license. You will also have to take a knowledge test, a vision test, and a driving test if required.

One important thing to remember that you cannot apply for a new California driver’s license online – you’ll have to do it in person at the local DMV.

Documents required 

• Identity proof (birth certificate, passport, or social security card)
• Social Security Number
• Proof of address (utility bills, credit card statements)

Time limit to change your address

You will need to change your address with the California DMV within 10 days of moving to the state.

Fees for a new California driver’s license

A new license will cost you between $30-85 depending on the License Class. For example, non-commercial class A and B licenses will cost you $39, while a commercial class license A or B will cost you $85.

Should you notify your car insurance company when you change your address?

If you’re moving within California, all you need to do is inform the auto insurance company about your new address. However, the company may be within its rights to revise your premiums based on the ZIP code – since traffic accidents, crime rates, and more vary based on neighborhoods.

If you’re moving to California from another state, it’s best to consult with your auto insurance company before moving. Insurance premiums can vary by a lot from state to state – you may end up paying a lot more in California! Check whether your current policy covers California’s minimum liability requirements for car insurance. If not, it’s best to shop for a better policy that offers a balance between coverage and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I change my address online with the California DMV?

Yes, you can update your address if you’re moving within California by visiting the official website of the California DMV and filling up the ‘Change of Address’ form. You will be ineligible to update your address online if: 

• You do not have a California Driver’s License 
• Have a commercial driver’s license issued by California DMV but you reside outside the state
• Your new address is outside the United States
• You don’t have a Social Security Number
• You have an Army/Fleet post office address

How long does it take the California DMV to update my address?

It takes at least 3 working days for the California DMV to update your new address in the system. Usually, a new license is not issued. However, you can apply for a replacement ID to be sent to your new address in a few weeks’ time.

What do I need to change the address on my California driver’s license?

The basic documents required to change the address on your license include:

• Current driver’s license
• Proof of old residence (utility bills)
• Social security number
• Valid US passport or birth certificate (to prove your date of birth)

Do you get a new driver’s license when you change your address with the California DMV?

No, a new driver’s license is not issued when you change your address. However, you can apply for a replacement ID which will reach you in a month’s time.

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