Where the Great Falls DMV is located and what it handles

Great Falls has one full-service Montana Department of Motor Vehicles office located at 2201 Central Avenue, Great Falls, MT 59401. This office handles driver's licenses, vehicle registration, title transfers, and address changes for residents in and around Great Falls and Cascade County.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on state holidays. You do not need an appointment for most transactions, but wait times vary depending on the day and time you visit. Mornings and early afternoons tend to be less crowded than late afternoon.

If you need to change your address on your driver's license or vehicle registration, this is the office where you can do it in person. You can also handle these transactions by mail or online through the Montana DMV website, depending on which document you need to update.

Key Takeaways

  • The Great Falls DMV office is at 2201 Central Avenue and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • You can change your address on your driver's license or vehicle registration at this office without an appointment, though wait times vary by time of day.
  • Address changes can also be completed by mail or online through the Montana DMV website for some transaction types.
  • Bring a valid form of identification and proof of your new address when you visit in person.

What documents to bring for an address change in person

If you are changing your address on your driver's license, bring your current license and a document that shows your new address. Acceptable proof of address includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and new address dated within the last 60 days.

For a vehicle registration address change, bring your current registration card, proof of ownership (title or registration), and the same proof of your new address. If someone else owns the vehicle, you may need written permission from the owner or their signature on the process.

Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized. The DMV will ask for it during processing. If you have changed your name since your last license was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

How to change your address by mail or online

Montana allows address changes by mail for both driver's licenses and vehicle registrations. To change your address by mail, read the appropriate form from the Montana DMV website, fill it out completely, and mail it with your current license or registration card and proof of your new address to the Great Falls office.

For driver's license address changes, you can also update your address online through the Montana DMV website if your license is not expired and you have not had any violations or suspensions. The online process takes about 10 minutes and costs less than an in-person visit.

Vehicle registration address changes can sometimes be completed online as well, depending on your vehicle type and registration status. Check the Montana DMV website to see which transactions are available online, or call the Great Falls office at (406) 444-3933 to ask whether your specific situation qualifies.

Fees and processing times for address changes

Address changes on a driver's license cost $10 if you do it in person or by mail. If you change your address online, the fee is $8. Processing by mail typically takes 10 to 15 business days from the date the office receives your paperwork.

Vehicle registration address changes cost $5 and can be processed in person the same day. By mail, allow 10 to 15 business days. If you change your registration online, the fee is $5 and the change takes effect when ready.

If you need your new license or registration card before the standard processing time, you can request expedited service at the Great Falls office for an additional fee, though this is not available for mail-in requests.

What to expect when you visit the Great Falls DMV office

When you arrive, look for the ticket dispenser near the entrance. Take a number and wait for your turn to be called. The office uses a digital queue system, so your number will appear on overhead screens when it is your turn.

A staff member will review your documents, confirm your new address, and process your request. If everything is in order, the transaction usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. If documents are missing or incomplete, staff will tell you what you need to bring back.

Payment is accepted in cash, check, or card. You will receive a receipt showing your transaction was completed. For a driver's license address change, your new card will be mailed to you within 10 business days. For registration, you can receive your updated card when ready or have it mailed.

Alternatives if you cannot visit the Great Falls office

If you live outside Great Falls but in Montana, you can visit any Montana DMV office to change your address. There are offices in Billings, Missoula, Bozeman, and other cities. The process and fees are the same statewide.

If you cannot visit an office in person, mail-in and online options are usually faster and less expensive than driving to Great Falls. The Montana DMV website has downloadable forms and step-by-step instructions for both methods.

If you have questions before you visit or submit paperwork by mail, call the Great Falls office at (406) 444-3933. Staff can tell you whether your documents will be accepted and answer questions about fees or processing time for your specific situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address at the Great Falls DMV without my current license or registration card?

No. You must bring your current license or registration card to prove you are the person requesting the change. If your card is lost or stolen, contact the Great Falls office first to report it and get a replacement before you can change your address.

How long does it take to get my new license card after I change my address?

If you change your address in person at the Great Falls office, your new license card will be mailed to your new address within 10 business days. If you change it by mail, allow an additional 10 to 15 business days for the office to receive and process your paperwork.

What if my proof of address is older than 60 days?

The DMV requires proof of address dated within the last 60 days. If your document is older, bring a second form of proof — such as a recent utility bill or lease agreement — or contact the Great Falls office to ask about other acceptable documents for your situation.

Can I change my vehicle registration address if I still owe money on the loan?

Yes. Your loan status does not affect your ability to change your address. Bring your current registration, proof of ownership, and proof of your new address. If the lender's name appears on the title, you may need written permission from them, so check with the Great Falls office first.