How to Change Your Address With the South Carolina DMV

What You Need to Do to Change Your Address in South Carolina

The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles handles address changes for driver's licenses and vehicle registrations separately, and each has its own process. You can change your driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. Vehicle registration address changes must be done by mail or in person — there is no online option for that transaction. Both processes are free, and you do not need to renew your license or registration to change the address on file.

South Carolina does not require you to update your address within a specific number of days, but doing so promptly prevents mail from going to an old address and keeps your records current with law enforcement. If you move and do not update, tickets or registration renewal notices will still go to your previous address.

Key Takeaways

Driver's license address changes can be completed online through the SC DMV website, which is the fastest option and requires no documents.
Vehicle registration address changes require either a mailed form or an in-person visit; you will need your current registration card and proof of your new address.
Proof of address for registration changes can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
If you change your address online for your license, your vehicle registration address will not update automatically — you must handle that separately.

Changing Your Driver's License Address Online

The online method is available through the SC DMV website and takes about five minutes. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. Log into the DMV portal, select the address change option, enter your information, and submit. You will receive a confirmation email, and your new address takes effect when ready in the DMV system.

The online option works only if your license is not suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license status is not current, you must visit a DMV office or mail in a form instead. You do not receive a new physical license card when you change your address online — your current card remains valid with the old address printed on it until you renew.

Changing Your Driver's License Address by Mail or In Person

If you cannot use the online method, you can mail a completed form or visit a DMV office. Request form DL-43 (Address Change) from the SC DMV website or pick one up at any DMV office. Fill in your current license number, new address, and sign the form. Mail it to the address listed on the form along with a copy of proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days works.

Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks. If you visit an office in person, bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address. The address change is processed on the spot, though your physical card will still show the old address until your next renewal. Most DMV offices do not require an appointment for address changes, but some locations accept appointments online — check your local office's website first.

Changing Your Vehicle Registration Address

Vehicle registration address changes cannot be done online. You have two options: mail in a form or visit a DMV office in person. To change by mail, contact the SC DMV or read form MV-40 (process for Registration/Permit) from the website. Complete the form with your vehicle information, new address, and current registration number. Mail it with a copy of your current registration card and proof of your new address (same documents accepted as for driver's license changes).

Mail processing takes two to three weeks. When your updated registration arrives, it will show your new address. You do not need to renew your registration to change the address — the expiration date stays the same. If you visit a DMV office, bring your current registration card, proof of your new address, and your vehicle's title or a copy of it. The office will process the change and issue you an updated registration card on the same day.

What Counts as Proof of Your New Address

The SC DMV accepts several documents as proof of address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name dated within the last 60 days is the most common. A lease agreement or mortgage statement also works. Government mail — such as a tax document, voter registration card, or court notice — counts if it is dated within the last 60 days and shows your new address.

Documents must show your full name and the complete new address. A bank statement or credit card statement is not accepted. If you are moving and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name at the new address, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on official letterhead confirming your move-in date and new address. Some DMV offices will accept this in place of a standard document.

Visiting a South Carolina DMV Office

South Carolina has DMV offices in most counties. You can find the location nearest you, hours, and contact information on the SC DMV website. Some offices are busier than others — visiting early in the day or mid-week often means shorter wait times. A few locations now offer online appointment scheduling, which reserves your place in line and can cut your wait significantly.

Bring your current license or registration card, proof of your new address, and any other documents the office requests. For driver's license changes, bring your license. For registration changes, bring your registration card and vehicle title or a copy. If you are changing both, bring all documents for both transactions — you can complete both in one visit, though they are processed separately.

If You Have a Commercial Driver's License

Commercial driver's license (CDL) holders cannot change their address online. You must visit a DMV office in person with your current CDL, proof of your new address, and your vehicle title if you are also updating a commercial vehicle registration. The office will process the address change and issue you an updated CDL card on the same day. Processing takes about 15 minutes if the office is not busy.

If you hold a CDL and a regular driver's license, you must update both separately — changing one does not change the other. Ask the DMV staff to process both while you are there to avoid a second visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address if I move?

South Carolina does not legally require you to update your address within a set timeframe, but you should do so to may support you receive mail from the DMV, law enforcement, and the court system. If you are pulled over, an officer will see your old address on your license. Renewal notices and registration documents will go to your previous address if you do not update.

Will my physical license card show my new address?

No. Your physical card will continue to show your old address until you renew your license at the end of its validity period. The DMV system will have your new address on file, and that is what law enforcement sees when they scan your license. You do not need a new card just to update your address.

Can I change my address at the same time as renewing my license?

Yes. If your license is expiring soon, you can renew and change your address together. You can do this online if your license is current, or in person at a DMV office. Doing both at once means your new card will show your new address, so you will not have to carry a card with outdated information.

What if I move out of state?

If you move to another state, you will eventually need to obtain a driver's license from that state. South Carolina does not require you to surrender your SC license, but most states require you to get a local license within 30 to 60 days of moving. Check the DMV website of your new state for their requirements. You can keep your SC vehicle registration if you own the vehicle and it is registered in your name, though some states require you to re-register vehicles within a certain period.

How long does it take to receive an updated registration card by mail?

Processing typically takes two to three weeks from the date the SC DMV receives your form. Mail delivery adds another few days on each end. If you need the updated card faster, visit a DMV office in person — they will issue it the same day.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.