CA Change Address

Changing your address with the California DMV is necessary if you have moved to another address or your mailing address has changed for any reason. The reason the DMV must know of this change is to ensure that all your important DMV information, forms, driver’s license, and other documents or items are sent to the correct address, preventing you from encountering penalties of any kind. 4dmv.com can show you how and where to change your California DMV records address, so you too can get all your needed DMV items and documents within a reasonable time.

Notifying the DMV of Your Address Change

Notifying the DMV that you have had a change of address is really simple. You have three options for doing so:

  • By mail
  • In person
  • Online
Choosing the method that is most convenient for you is an opportunity that saves you time and allows you to make the necessary changes within a reasonable amount of time.

You have 10 days from the date you move or change your mailing address to alert the DMV. There are few restrictions on how you may change your California address with the DMV, as the choice is completely yours, unless you are a CDL licensed driver or have no access to your Social Security card, which will require that you report to the office in person.

  • If you change your address by mail or in person, you will need to complete the Notice of Change of Address, which can be downloaded from the California DMV site by calling either 1-800-777-0133 or 1-800-921-1117, or picking it up at the local DMV office.
  • There is no fee charged for a California address change, which allows you to complete the process with little time and no money.
  • If you choose to use the California address change online system, you will visit Change of Address. Once you are at the change of address page, you simply follow the simple on-screen instructions to complete the change at home.
Documentation for the Change

If you change your address in California from home, either by mail or online, you will be responsible for documenting the change yourself by putting the new address on a card with your license, as you are charged a $29 fee to get a new license with your new address if you aren’t renewing as you make these changes. If you change your address in-office, however, the California DMV representative will provide you with a Change of Address Certificate card that you must also carry with your license.

Records Changed Only—No Changed License

If you aren’t trying to get a new license with the new address on it, you won’t have to. The main point is to make sure that the correct address is on file with the DMV records, allowing them to send you what you need by mail, such as renewal notices, tickets, and fine notices, to the correct address. You won’t receive a new license every time you make such changes, however, you will have the opportunity to obtain a new license if you wish.

  • Make appointment with DMV.
  • Report in-person to California DMV field office.
  • Follow necessary steps for receiving duplicate license.
  • Pay $29 fee.
  • Obtain your interim card for 90 days while you wait for your new license to arrive in the mail.
If you wish to change your address on any other documents, including your registration, you will need to visit Change your Address to find out what documents are needed, what fees are applied, and how to go about doing so.