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Change of Address in California

Moved within California or just arrived? Update your license, registration, and title—then everything else. Here's exactly how, plus ask Sam.

Changing your address at the California DMV isn't optional. After a move you'll typically have 10–30 days to update your driver's license, vehicle registration, and title. Start with the steps below, then work through the rest-of-your-move checklist.

Ask Sam about your moveDMV.org's virtual assistant — instant, step-by-step help.

How to change your address in California

Changing Your Address in California

Whether you have recently moved to California or moved within the state, you need to change your address with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Changing your address with the CA DMV will update your information on your CA driver's license, ID card, vehicle registration, and vehicle title.

Change Your Address with the CA DMV

When you move within California, you must notify the CA Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days.

Changing your address on the CA DMV records is free, and you are not required to get new documents showing your new address.

When you renew your CA driver's license/ID card and vehicle registration, your renewed card will display your new address. See the “Renew Your CA License & Registration" section below for more information.

You can change the address on your California DMV records online, in person, or by mail.

Online

You cannot change your address online if you:

Don't have a California driver's license or ID card.
Don't have a Social Security number (SSN).
Have a California commercial driver's license (CDL), but you live in another state.
Have an army or fleet post office address.
Have a non-U.S. address.

If any of the above applies to you, you will need to change your address in person or by mail.

To change your address online, you need to first register for the CA DMV's online services.

Once you've registered, log in to begin the online address change. You'll need to provide your:

Old address.
New address.
Vehicle registration information, if you own a vehicle.

After 3 days, you can log back in to check your change of address status.

In Person

You can change your address in person by visiting your local CA DMV office with a completed Change of Address (Form DMV 14).

You can get the form online, in person at a California DMV office, or by calling the DMV at (800) 777-0133.

NOTE: If you request a form by phone, you will receive it in about 5 days.

By Mail

To change your address by mail, send a completed Change of Address (Form DMV 14) to the address listed on the form.

On a small piece of paper, write down your new address, sign and date it, then carry it with your CA driver's license or ID card. Do not tape or staple it to your card.

The rest of your move

Updating the DMV is step one. Here's everything else your old address is hiding on—we've linked our full guides where we have them.

Voter RegistrationRe-register or confirm your address carried over—especially across county or state lines.

Car InsuranceYour rate is partly ZIP-based, so a move can change it. Compare quotes.

Name ChangeMoved and changed your name? Update license, registration, and Social Security together.

New Resident GuideMoved to a new state? The full checklist for making it official.

Find a DMV OfficeLocations, hours, and appointments near your new home.

DMV FormsEvery change-of-address form, all in one place.

A few more to knock out—no DMV required:

✓USPS mail forwarding—set up a forward at moversguide.usps.com (lasts up to 12 months).

✓Banks & credit cards—statements, replacement cards, and fraud alerts.

✓Employer & IRS—update HR for your tax forms; file IRS Form 8822.

✓Subscriptions & deliveries—prescriptions, memberships, and auto-ship orders.

Moving can change your car insurance rate.

Rates are partly based on your ZIP code—compare quotes for your new address.

Compare rates ›

Change of Address FAQs

How long do I have to change my address with the DMV?

Most states give you 10 to 30 days after a move to update your driver's license and vehicle registration. The exact window and fees vary by state, so check your state's page for the specifics.

Can I change my address with the DMV online?

In many states, yes. Address changes for your license or registration can often be done online, by mail, or in person. A handful of states still require an in-person or mailed form, and REAL ID changes may need an office visit.

Do I need to update the address on my car title too?

Your vehicle registration address must be current; the title itself usually does not need reprinting for an address change, but your registration and insurance records do. Update registration when you update your license.

What else should I update after moving besides the DMV?

Set up USPS mail forwarding, notify your car insurer (your rate is ZIP-based), confirm your voter registration carried over, and update banks, your employer, the IRS (Form 8822), and any subscriptions or deliveries.

Is there a fee to change my address with the DMV?

Many states let you change your address for free, while others charge a small fee, especially if a new license or registration card is issued. Your state's page lists the exact cost.