How To Complete A DMV Change Of Address
With the many steps involved in moving, it’s easy to forget to change your address with the companies and organizations who need to be aware of your relocation. But the DMV is one organization you really can’t afford to leave out of your moving plans.
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To avoid any type of miscommunication, drivers should fill out their change of address form as soon as possible.
While each state has their own procedure and rules as to how to file a DMV change of address, the general process is similar regardless of where you currently live or where you’re going.
How DMV Address Change Works
Drivers searching for ‘change my address’ online are in luck.
State DMVs make it possible for certified drivers to update their new information online for free. You also have the option to fill out the forms and drop them in the mail or to visit your local DMV office.
Drivers do not typically receive a confirmation from the DMV that their address has been changed if they mail in their information, so it may be worth traveling to the DMV location in-person to ensure that everything successfully goes through.
You will typically need to have both your new and old address available, current registration card, and if applicable, the name of the leasing company of your vehicle.
Why You Need To Change Your Mailing Address
When it comes to moving from one location to another, many people will fill out a general form with the post office to have all of their mail forwarded to the new place.
The DMV typically will not forward mail to a new address due to confidentiality reasons, which may come as an unwelcome surprise to drivers with unfinished business.
This means that if you’re sent a red-light ticket or a notice of registration renewal between when you move and when you officially change your address, you may never actually receive the notification in the mail.
Ultimately, ignoring these warnings could eventually lead to license suspension or potentially even repossession of the vehicle.
Potential Online Restrictions To Address Change
Drivers may not be able to change mailing address online if they do not meet the state’s requirements. For example, if you don’t have a social security card, you have an army PO box, or if you’re using a temporary address.
In addition, some states do not link their records, which means you’ll need to fill out separate mailing address requests for any vehicles or licenses you need to update.
Some states may place a limit on how many vehicles you can update (e.g., up to three). If your application is turned down for any reason, you will need to fill out the standard form and mail it in or drop it off.
Please note that drivers will not receive a new license after successfully completing their change of address forms if changing states.
How To Change Your US Mailing Address With The Post Office
For further questions regarding how to change your mailing address, check out the Untied States Postal Service’s helpful online address change guide or visit the USPS mover’s guide to change your address if you have already moved.