The California DMV mailing address for address changes

Send your address change to the California Department of Motor Vehicles at the address listed on the form you are using. The main mailing address for most DMV correspondence is:

California Department of Motor Vehicles PO Box 942869 Sacramento, CA 94229-2869

However, the specific address can vary depending on which form you submit and whether you are changing the address on your driver's license, vehicle registration, or both. Always check the instructions on the form itself — they will direct you to the correct mailing address for that particular transaction. Some forms have a different PO Box or street address printed on them.

If you are mailing documents, include a cover letter with your name, driver's license number, and vehicle identification number (VIN) if the change involves a vehicle. Use a method that allows you to track delivery, such as certified mail, because the DMV does not send confirmation receipts for mailed address changes.

Key Takeaways

  • The standard DMV mailing address in Sacramento is PO Box 942869, Sacramento, CA 94229-2869, but always verify the address on your specific form before mailing.
  • Different DMV forms may direct you to different addresses, so check the form instructions rather than assuming all correspondence goes to the same location.
  • Include your driver's license number and VIN (if applicable) in a cover letter with any mailed documents to help the DMV locate your record.
  • Use certified mail or another trackable method when mailing address changes, since the DMV does not provide written confirmation for mailed requests.

Online and in-person alternatives to mailing

The California DMV offers faster ways to change your address than mailing. You can update your driver's license address online through the DMV website if you have a valid California driver's license and a Social Security number. The online process takes a few minutes and you receive confirmation when ready.

For vehicle registration address changes, you can also use the online system if your vehicle is registered in California. Visit the official DMV website, log into your account, and follow the prompts to update your address. This method avoids mail delays and the risk of documents being lost in transit.

If you prefer to handle the change in person, visit any DMV field office in California. Bring your driver's license, proof of residency at your new address, and your vehicle registration if you are updating that as well. Field offices are open during regular business hours, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

What documents to include when mailing

If you choose to mail your address change, include the correct form for what you are updating. For a driver's license address change, use Form DL 43 (process for Duplicate or Corrected Driver's License or Identification Card). For vehicle registration, use Form REG 14 (process for Title or Registration). Both forms are available on the DMV website as PDFs that you can print and fill out by hand.

Along with the form, include proof of your new address. The DMV accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, or government-issued mail dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and new address clearly.

If you are updating both your driver's license and vehicle registration, you can mail both forms together in the same envelope. Include one proof of residency document — it will be used for both updates. Sign and date the forms before mailing, and keep a copy for your records.

Processing time for mailed address changes

Address changes submitted by mail typically take 2 to 4 weeks to process, depending on mail delivery time and current DMV workload. This timeline assumes the DMV receives your documents, processes them without errors, and updates their system. If documents are lost or delayed in the mail, processing takes longer.

The DMV does not send a confirmation letter when your address change is processed. To verify that your new address is on file, you can check your driver's license status online through the DMV website or call the DMV customer service line. Have your driver's license number ready when you call.

If you need your address changed quickly — for example, because you are moving and need updated documents soon — use the online system or visit a field office instead of mailing. Both methods update your address within hours or days rather than weeks.

Regional DMV offices and satellite locations

California has DMV field offices throughout the state where you can submit an address change in person. The main Sacramento office handles mailed correspondence, but you do not have to mail to Sacramento — you can visit any local DMV office near you. Use the office locator on the DMV website to find the nearest location, hours, and whether appointments are required.

Some smaller communities have DMV satellite offices with limited hours or services. Call ahead to confirm that the location you plan to visit handles address changes, since some satellite offices only handle specific transactions like license renewals or vehicle registrations.

If you live near the California-Nevada or California-Oregon border, you may also be able to use DMV services in neighboring states for certain transactions, though address changes must be handled through California DMV.

Common mistakes when mailing address changes

The most common error is sending documents to the wrong address. Some people mail to the main DMV office street address in Sacramento instead of the PO Box, which delays processing. Always use the address printed on the form you are submitting, not a general DMV address you find online.

Another frequent mistake is forgetting to sign the form or leaving required fields blank. The DMV will return incomplete forms without processing them, adding weeks to the timeline. Before mailing, review the form instructions line by line and make sure every required field is filled in and signed.

Sending proof of residency that is too old or does not clearly show your name and address also causes delays. Documents must be dated within the last 60 days and must be originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If the DMV cannot read your proof of residency, they will send the documents back and ask you to resubmit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address at a different DMV office than the one in Sacramento?

Yes. You can visit any California DMV field office in person to change your address. You do not have to go to Sacramento. Use the DMV office locator on the official website to find the nearest location to you. If you are mailing, however, you must use the address on your form, which is typically the Sacramento PO Box.

What if I move before my new address is processed?

Contact the DMV and provide both your old and new addresses. If you have already mailed an address change and then move again, call the DMV customer service line to update your address over the phone or visit a field office in person. Do not mail a second form — call first to see if the first one has been processed.

Do I need to change my address if I only moved within the same city?

Yes. Any change to your street address, apartment number, or ZIP code requires an address update with the DMV. This applies to both your driver's license and vehicle registration. The DMV uses your address on file for official notices, vehicle registration renewals, and citation delivery.

Can I change my address by phone or email?

The DMV does not accept address changes by phone or email. You can update your address online through the DMV website, in person at a field office, or by mailing the appropriate form. The online method is fastest and does not require you to leave home.

What if I do not have proof of residency for my new address?

You will need some form of proof dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new address. If you do not have a utility bill or lease agreement, other documents the DMV accepts include property tax bills, mortgage statements, government-issued mail, or a notarized letter from your landlord. Check the DMV website for the full list of acceptable documents.