How to Change a Car Registration Address
If you move, it’s important to update your car registration as soon as you can. The DMV uses the address on file to send important items like registration stickers and renewal notices. If your address isn’t current, you might miss these documents—and that can lead to fines or even traffic tickets.
Fortunately, updating your car registration address is a quick and fairly straightforward process in most states. Many allow you to do it online in just a few minutes for a small fee.
If you’ve moved to a new state or have special circumstances, you may be required to update your information in person. Below, you’ll find common scenarios and methods for updating your car registration address.
When You Need to Update Your Car Registration Address
You must complete a DMV address change on your registration whenever you move—whether it’s across the state or just down the street. It’s also necessary if you relocate to a different state.
Even a move within the same neighborhood requires an update to your vehicle registration, title, and driver’s license. Renewal notices and decals should be sent to the address on file, so it’s important to keep it up to date.
If you don’t receive renewal documents because your address is outdated, you’re still responsible. Some states also enforce deadlines for reporting address changes.
How Long You Have to Update Your Address
Each state has its own rules about how quickly you must update your car registration after a move. Some don’t set a specific time limit, but others require you to notify the DMV within a set number of days.
For example, Vermont gives you 30 days, while other states may require notification in as little as 10 days. The typical window ranges from 10 to 60 days after moving.
Check your state’s guidelines so you don’t miss a deadline.
How to Change Your Car Registration Address Online
Many states offer an easy online process to update your vehicle registration address. Some, like Maryland, only allow online submissions. Learn more about that here.
Usually, all you need is your driver’s license number, vehicle registration number, and your new address. You won’t need to upload additional documents.
However, not all residents qualify for online changes. For example, in California, new residents without a California driver’s license must update their information in person. Learn more about that here.
How to Change Your Address In Person
If you’re not eligible for online updates, you can go to a DMV office to change your registration address. Bring your current registration, a valid driver’s license, and proof of your new address. A form and small fee may also be required.
In most cases, you won’t need additional documents. Scheduling an appointment can reduce your wait time. The update is usually free, though you might need to pay if you request new documents with your updated address.
How to Update Your Registration Address by Mail
Some states let you submit a change of address request by mail, but this is usually the slowest option. Keep in mind that mailing time in both directions can add delays, so start the process early.
Typically, you’ll need to provide your driver’s license or registration number, your new address, and payment. Send everything to your state’s DMV mailing address.
Some states also ask you to include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Processing can take up to two weeks.
Should You Renew Instead of Just Updating Your Address?
Wondering if you can update your address and renew your registration at the same time? In some cases, you can—but only if your address is already up to date before you begin.
In some states like Maryland, the rules vary by renewal method. If your address is outdated, you can’t renew online—but if you renew by mail, you can mark address corrections on the form.
In many states, you can handle both your address update and renewal during an in-person visit to a DMV office.
Fees for Changing Your Car Registration Address
The cost to update your address varies by state. In some places, there’s no fee to update your records. However, if you also need to update your driver’s license, you probably need to pay a replacement fee.
In Colorado, for instance, there’s no charge to update your registration address. Learn more about that process here. You can even print a new address label to apply to your license.
Always check your state’s DMV site for fees and whether you’re legally required to request updated documents.