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California DMV Change of Address

Moving somewhere in California? Before you cruise around the new neighborhood, add updating the California DMV change of address form to your moving to-do list. In some states, you have less than 30 days to update your driving records and/or vehicle registration with the Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV), so now’s the time to act!

But don’t worry — we’ve got your back. We’ve compiled everything you need to know about updating your driving records with your new residential or mailing address. You’ll be able to head out with the car keys from the day you officially call California home.

Where are you moving?

CALIFORNIA DRIVER’S LICENSE CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Do I need to notify the State of California?

Yes.

Will filling out an official U.S. Postal Service Change of Address Form update my driver’s license records?

No.

Will the State of California issue me a new driver’s license or ID card?

No.

Where can I complete my driver’s license change of address?

You’re in luck! You can easily complete your California DMV change of address online through California’s Change of Address System.

A fan of snail mail? You can also complete your change of address by mail here:

DMV Change of Address

PO Box 942859

Sacramento, CA 94259-0001

What will I need when I notify the DMV?

  • Your Notice of Change of Address Form
  • Your driver’s license number
  • Your Social Security card
  • Your date of birth
  • Your driver’s license issue date
  • Your (valid) e-mail address

When do I need to complete my driver’s license change of address?

Act fast — you’ll need to report your change of address within 10 days of your move.

CALIFORNIA VEHICLE REGISTRATION CHANGE OF ADDRESS INFORMATION

Do I need to notify the State of California?

Yes.

Will filling out an official U.S. Postal Service Change of Address Form update my vehicle registration records?

No.

Where can I complete my vehicle registration change of address?

You’ll be happy about this one: You can easily complete your California DMV change of address online through California’s Change of Address System.

Like to do things the old-fashioned way? You can send it by mail to:

DMV Change of Address

PO Box 942859

Sacramento, CA 94259-0001

What will I need when I notify the DMV?

  • Your Notice of Change of Address Form
  • Your most recent registration card
  • Your old and new address
  • Your plate/placard number
  • Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
  • The name of your leasing company, if the vehicle is leased

When do I need to complete my vehicle registration change of address?

Don’t sit on it — you’ll need to report your change of address within 10 days of your move.

CALIFORNIA DRIVER’S LICENSE CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Do I need to get a new driver’s license?

Yes.

Where can I get a new driver’s license?

You can get a new driver’s license at the California Department of Motor Vehicles. We hate to say it, but services are not available online.

Avoid the lines, and schedule an appointment online.

What will I need?

  • Your Driver’s License or Identification Card Application (you can also pick this up at the DMV)
  • Your Social Security card
  • Verification of your birth date and legal presence, see acceptable documents (Examples: Birth certificate or U.S. passport)
  • Your thumbprint
  • Your current driver’s license and/or ID card
  • Proof of residency

When do I need to get a new driver’s license?

Act fast — you’ll need to visit the California Department of Motor Vehicle office within 10 days of your move.

Do I need to take a driving test?

Nope, save your real driving skills for the road. You will, however, have to pass a vision exam and a traffic laws and sign test.

Is there a fee?

Ah, the age-old question. Costs vary. Visit the California Driver’s License fees page for more information.

CALIFORNIA VEHICLE REGISTRATION CHANGE OF ADDRESS INFORMATION

Do I need to register my vehicle?

Yes.

Where can I register my vehicle?

You’ll need to visit the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Sorry to say, but services are not available online.

Save yourself a bit of time, and schedule an appointment online.

What will I need?

When do I need to register my vehicle?

Don’t sit on it — you’ll need to register your vehicle within 20 days of your move.

Is there a fee?

We don’t fault you for asking. Costs vary. Visit the fees page for more information.

Is an emission test required?

Yes. Visit California’s Smog Information page for more information.

Is proof of liability insurance required?

Yes. Visit California’s Insurance Requirements page to learn more.

CALIFORNIA DRIVER’S LICENSE CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Do I need to notify the State of California?

No. When you receive a license from the state you’re moving to, California will automatically cancel your driver’s license.

CALIFORNIA VEHICLE REGISTRATION CHANGE OF ADDRESS INFORMATION

Do I need to notify the State of California?

Yes.

Will filling out an official U.S. Postal Service Change of Address Form update my vehicle registration records?

No.

Where can I complete my vehicle registration change of address?

Alas, services are not available online. You’ll need to complete your change of address by mail here:

DMV Registration

PO Box 942869

Sacramento, CA 94269-0001

What will I need?

  • Your Notice of Change of Address Form (make sure to mark the box labeled “check if registered outside of CA.”)
  • Your driver’s license number
  • Your old and new address
  • Your plate/placard number

When do I need to complete my change of address?

Act fast — you’ll need to complete your change of address within 10 days of moving.

Do I need to return my license plates?

Nope — go ahead and save them for the grandkids.

Contact information:

California Department of Motor Vehicles
1-800-777-0133