Change of Address in California

Before you dip your toes in the sand in California, make sure to cross a few major items off your to-do list, including completing all of the required California DMV change of address documents. You must update your address with your local Department of Motor Vehicles if you move and bring a car with you, both in and out of state. This guarantees that the registration on your vehicle and your driving records are current. In California, you only have 10 days to notify the DMV of your address change, so you must act quickly.

How do i update my license with the CA DMV?

  • Online. Complete a change of address form for the California DMV.
  • Inquire about having a form for changing your address addressed to you. To make a request, call 1-800-777-0133, and you'll get your form within five days. Fill out the form and return it to the address mentioned at the top of the form.
  • Go to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Find a DMV office in your area and go in person to fill out a change of address form for the California DMV. You'll be given a card with a Change of Address Certificate that you'll need to fill out and keep alongside your driver's license in your wallet.
  • Download the Change of Address form. Fill out form DMV 14 and mail it to the address at the top of the page.

What is the cost of changing an address?

In California, changing your address is free.

What information do you need to update your driver's license or identification card address?

  • Your current driver's license number, as well as the date of issue
  • Your Social Security Number (SSN)
  • Documents proving your date of birth
  • Your old and new addresses must be verified (utility bills, pay stubs, etc.)

What information do you need to do to update your vehicle's registration address?

  • Your old and new addresses must be verified.
  • Your most recent proof of registration
  • The location of your trailer, coach, or vessel (if applicable)
Contact the California Department of Motor Vehicles directly at 1-800-777-0133 if you have any questions about altering your driver's license address and car registration when relocating to, from, or within the state of California.

Forms

DMV 14
  • Notice of Change of Address
Allows you to update your driver's license, registration and tags, and disability parking placards, as well as notify the California DMV of your new address

FAQs on Moving to California from Another State

Is it necessary to obtain a new driver's license?

Yes once you move to CA you must have a valid CA license to drive in the state.  You will also be required to surrender any license you hold in another state before being issued a CA license.

How do you get a CA license when you move to CA?

  • As a formerly out-of-state resident, you must directly apply for a California driver's license at the DMV. Make an appointment ahead of time, so you don't have to waste your time waiting in line.

How much does it cost?

Costs can vary based on the type of license you are aquiring, check out the list of California driver's license/identification card application fees ahead of time to see what you'll be charged.

Do you need a driving test?

  • If you pass the written and vision tests, you won't need to take a driving exam unless you're imigrating to California from another country or you have not had a license previously.

How many days to take your license and ID card?

Most often new cards are delivered within 10 days

Is it necessary to change the registration of your vehicle?

Yes it is unlawful to drive a car in CA with out of state registration if CA is your home state.

What do you need to bring to update your vehicle's registration?

  • All registered car owners must fill out and sign the REG 343 form (Application for Title or Registration).
  • Your last issued out-of-state title will be a change of registered owner and a California title request.
  • A letter from the last registration jurisdiction validates the vehicle's registration period or your most recently issued registration certificate or renewal notice for the current year.
  • Smog certification (if applicable)
  • Weight certification (if applicable)

What is the cost of registering your vehicle?

$60. However, there may be other charges.

How long does it take to get my new registration by mail?

      • It can take up to two weeks