A Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Address with the California DMV.

This is a complete guide on how to change your address with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). By following our detailed instructions, you can guarantee a hassle-free process when transitioning to your new address.

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 the information on your CA driver's license, ID card, vehicle registration, and vehicle titles.

You must notify the California DMV within 10 days of your move within California. There is no fee associated. Changing your address with the DMV changes the address on your license, ID card, vehicle registration, and title.

Moving Within California:

1.) Online:

  1. Visit the California DMV Website: Start by accessing the California DMV's official website. This is the portal for all DMV-related activities for the state of California.
  2. Navigate to Online Services: On the homepage, there should be a section or tab labeled "Online Services." Click on this to view all the online services offered by the DMV.
  3. Select "Change of Address": Among the list of online services, find and click on the Change of Address service.
  4. Verification: For security, you'll be asked to provide personal details. This typically includes:
    • Driver's license or ID card number
    • Last four digits of your Social Security number
    • Birth date
  5. Enter New Address: A form will appear prompting you to input your new address. Ensure you have the exact details, including any apartment or unit numbers.
  6. Review and Confirm: Before submitting, review every detail you've entered. Any mistakes could lead to complications later.
  7. Confirmation: Once you've submitted the change, you'll receive an online confirmation. It's wise to screenshot this or print it out as proof of your submission.

2.) In Person:

  1. Fill out the change of address form: Find the official change of address form here.

  2. Check the DMV Wait Times! Use dmvappointments.org to check the wait times to your nearest office to minimize waiting in a line.

  3. Find a Local DMV Office: Use our DMV Office Locator to find a California DMV branch or our "DMV Near Me" search for the closest branch if you are located in Calfiornia. Consider checking the current wait times on our office pages.

  4. Queue System: Once at the DMV, there's typically a queue system. Check-in and wait for it to be called.

  5. Inform the Representative: When your number is called, approach the counter and let the representative know you're there to change your address.

  6. Fill Out the Form: If you didn't already fill out the form, they'll provide you with a "Change of Address" form (DMV 14). Take your time to fill it out, making sure all details are accurate.

  7. Submit the Form: Once filled, return the form to the representative.

  8. Confirmation: They'll process the change in their system and provide you with some form of confirmation. This might be a paper slip or a stamp on your existing document.

3.) By Mail:

  1. Obtain the Form: Download and print the Change of Address form (DMV 14) from the DMV website.

  2. Complete the Form: Fill out the form and ensure your handwriting is legible and that you provide accurate details.

  3. Mail the Form: Place the form in an envelope, affix the necessary postage, and send it to:

    DMV Change of Address
P.O. Box 942859
Sacramento, CA 94259-0001

  4. Wait for Confirmation: After a few weeks, the DMV will process the change and send you a confirmation by mail. If you don't receive this within a month, consider reaching out to the DMV for clarification.

If you're moving from out of state:

  1. California Driver's License or ID:

    • Prepare your documents: Gather proof of identity, residency, and any other required documents. The DMV provides a list of required documents. You have 10 days to apply for a license and 20 days to register and title your vehicles.
    • Visit the DMV: Head to your local DMV office, take a number, and wait your turn. Dont forget to check the wait times! 
    • Application & Testing: Fill out the application for a new driver's license. Depending on your previous driving experience and the state from which you're moving, you might need to take a written and/or driving test.
       

  2. Vehicle Registration:

    • Gather Documents: Have your out-of-state vehicle title and current registration on hand.
    • Inspection: Some vehicles might require a VIN verification.
    • Smog Check: Depending on the vehicle's age and type, you might need a smog check.
    • Visit the DMV: With all documents and any inspection certificates, visit the DMV.
    • Complete the Process: Fill out the necessary forms, pay the fees, and obtain your California registration and plates.
       

  3. Insurance:

    • Contact your provider: Before making the move, reach out to your insurance provider to inform them of the change.
    • Update Policy: Ensure your policy meets California's minimum requirements. If not, adjust your coverage.
       

  4. Emissions and Smog Check:

    • Locate a Station: Use the state's locator tool to find a licensed smog check station.
    • Schedule & Test: Set an appointment (if necessary) and have your vehicle tested.
    • Obtain Certificate: If your vehicle passes, you'll receive a certificate. Keep this safe, as you'll need it for vehicle registration.

 

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