Updating Your Address with the D.C. DMV

In the District of Columbia, residents are legally required to update their address with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DC DMV) within 60 calendar days of moving. This requirement applies to all individuals holding a D.C. driver's license, learner’s permit, identification card, or vehicle registration.

Who Needs to Update Their Address

You must notify the DC DMV of your address change if you are:

• A holder of a valid D.C. driver’s license or identification card
• A vehicle owner with a D.C. registration
• A new resident who recently moved into D.C.
• Someone who has changed addresses within the city

Failing to update your address can result in missed notices regarding license renewals, traffic violations, and other important correspondence.

Ways to Update Your Address

Online

The most convenient method is using the DC DMV's Online Services Portal. You’ll need:

• Your current D.C. driver’s license or ID card number
• The last four digits of your Social Security Number
• Your new address

Online changes take effect immediately. A new license or registration card can be ordered during the process, subject to standard replacement fees.

In-Person

Visit any DC DMV Service Center. Bring the following:

• Proof of new D.C. residency (e.g., lease agreement, utility bill, or bank statement dated within 60 days)
• Your current D.C. license or ID
• Vehicle registration (if applicable)

You can find locations and wait times here: D.C. DMV Service Center Locations and Hours

By Mail

For non-commercial address changes only, mail a completed DC DMV Address Change Form to:

DC Department of Motor Vehicles
PO Box 90120
Washington, DC 20090

The form is available at: Essential DMV Forms for D.C. Drivers

Required Documentation

To validate your new address, the DC DMV accepts documents such as:

• Utility bills (water, electric, gas, or cable)
• Bank statements
• Government-issued letters
• Lease or mortgage agreements

Documents must show your full name and be dated within the last 60 days.

Vehicle Registration Address Updates

Address changes must also be reflected on your vehicle registration. This ensures you receive vehicle-related notices and renewal reminders. You can update both your license and vehicle registration simultaneously when using the online or in-person options.

REAL ID Implications

If your D.C. license or ID is REAL ID-compliant, any change to personal information—including address—may require a visit to a service center to reissue your credential.

Special Cases

Limited Purpose Licenses

Those with a Limited Purpose License must submit new residency documents when updating an address. Visit Understanding Limited Purpose Driver Licenses in DC Eligibility and Application Process for eligibility criteria.

Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs)

CDL holders must update their address in person and may be subject to federal guidelines. See Applying for a Commercial Driver's License in D.C.

Associated Fees

Updating your address online is free unless you request new documents. Replacement credentials cost:

• Driver’s License: $20
• Vehicle Registration Card: $10

A complete fee schedule is available at Understanding DMV Fees in the District of Columbia

Why It Matters

Failing to update your address can lead to:

• Missed court summons or traffic ticket deadlines
• Unrenewed licenses or registrations
• Complications with insurance or legal compliance

Avoid these risks by keeping your DMV records up to date.