Where to Change Your Address in Virginia
The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles handles address changes for driver's licenses, learner's permits, and vehicle registration. You can update your address online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. The online method is the fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you cannot use the online system, you can mail a form or visit a local office, though mail processing typically takes two to three weeks.
Virginia does not require you to update your address when ready after you move, but doing so prevents mail from going to your old address and keeps your license current with your actual residence. If you are pulled over and your license shows an outdated address, you may face questions, though it is not a violation on its own.
Key Takeaways
- You can change your address online through the Virginia DMV website in about 10 minutes without paying a fee.
- The online system works for driver's licenses, learner's permits, and vehicle registration — all from one account.
- If you mail your change, include a completed form and proof of your new address, and expect processing to take two to three weeks.
- In-person visits at a DMV office require an appointment booked through the Virginia DMV website; walk-ins are not accepted.
- You will need your driver's license number or Social Security number to start an online change, plus a valid email address to receive confirmation.
Changing Your Address Online
The Virginia DMV online system is the simplest route for most people. Go to dmvnow.com, select "Change of Address," and log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, or your Social Security number. You will need a valid email address where the DMV can send your confirmation.
Enter your new address exactly as it appears on your proof of residency — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works. The system will confirm your change when ready and send you an email receipt. Your updated license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. There is no fee for this service.
The online system updates your driver's license, learner's permit (if you hold one), and all vehicle registrations tied to your account in a single transaction. You do not need to make separate changes for each document.
Changing Your Address by Mail
If you cannot use the online system, you can mail a change-of-address form to the Virginia DMV. read the form from dmvnow.com or request one by calling the DMV customer service line. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and include a copy of your proof of residency — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
Mail the form and proof to the address listed on the DMV website for your region. Processing by mail takes two to three weeks, and you will not receive a confirmation email. Your updated license will arrive separately by mail. Include a return address on your envelope so the DMV can contact you if there is a problem with your submission.
Do not send original documents — send copies only. The DMV will not return your proof of residency, so keep the original for your records.
Changing Your Address in Person at a DMV Office
Virginia DMV offices require appointments; you cannot walk in. Book an appointment through dmvnow.com by selecting your nearest office and choosing an available time slot. Appointments typically fill up one to two weeks in advance, so plan ahead if you need to visit soon.
Bring your current driver's license or learner's permit and proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The DMV staff will update your address on the spot, and your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. There is no fee for an address change.
If you are also renewing your license or making other changes at the same time, the visit may take longer. Check the DMV website before your appointment to see if you need additional documents for other services.
What Counts as Proof of Your New Address
Virginia accepts several documents as proof of residency. The document must show your name, your new address, and be dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, a property tax bill, or an insurance policy.
Government-issued mail such as a tax return or voter registration card does not count as proof of residency for a DMV address change. If you recently moved and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, contact the DMV to ask about alternative documents — some offices will accept a signed letter from your landlord or a notarized statement of residency.
Updating Your Vehicle Registration Address
When you change your driver's license address online, your vehicle registration address updates automatically if the registration is linked to your DMV account. You will not need to take a separate step. Your new registration card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
If you own multiple vehicles, all registrations tied to your account will update at the same time. If you recently purchased a vehicle and the registration is not yet in your name, or if you are unsure whether your registration is linked to your account, contact the DMV before changing your address online.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not enter your address differently than it appears on your proof of residency. The DMV system matches your entry against the document you submit, and mismatches can delay processing. If your proof shows "123 Main Street Apartment 4B," enter it exactly that way — do not abbreviate or rearrange.
Do not send original documents by mail. Send copies only; originals will not be returned. Do not wait until your license expires to change your address — update it as soon as you move so your license remains valid at your current location. Do not assume your vehicle registration updated if you changed your license address; check your account on dmvnow.com to confirm both documents show your new address.
If you are moving out of state, you do not need to update your Virginia address before you leave. However, you will need to obtain a driver's license in your new state within the timeframe that state requires — typically 30 to 60 days after establishing residency.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to receive my new license after I change my address?
Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you submit your change, whether you change it online, by mail, or in person. The DMV does not issue licenses on the spot for address changes. Your current license remains valid until the new one arrives.
Can I change my address if I do not have a utility bill yet?
If you recently moved and do not have a utility bill or lease in your name, contact the DMV to ask about alternatives. Some offices accept a signed letter from your landlord, a notarized statement of residency, or other documents. Call the DMV customer service line or visit an office with an appointment to discuss your specific situation.
What if I move and do not update my address — will I get a ticket?
Driving with an outdated address on your license is not a traffic violation. However, if you are pulled over, the officer may ask why your address does not match your residence. Updating your address prevents confusion and ensures important DMV mail reaches you.
Do I need to change my address separately for my vehicle registration?
No. When you change your driver's license address online through dmvnow.com, your vehicle registration updates automatically. If you change your address by mail or in person, both documents update together. You do not need to file separate forms.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
Yes. You can change your address even if your license is suspended or revoked. The address change does not affect the status of your license. Update your address so the DMV can contact you about reinstating your license or other matters.