CA Drivers License Address Change (California)

November 6, 2025
5 Min Read

If you’ve just moved to a new address in California, you are required by law to notify the DMV within 10 days.

This is a critical step for keeping your license valid and ensuring you receive important notices (like vehicle registration renewals).

The great news is that this process is fast, easy, and 100% FREE. This guide will bust the biggest myth about the cost, show you how to update your address online in 5 minutes, and clarify the different process for new residents moving toCalifornia.

The $0 Fee vs. The $33 Replacement Card

Let’s be perfectly clear: it is 100% FREE to change your address in the DMV’s system.

You only pay a fee (currently $33 for a non-commercial license) if you choose to order a new, physical driver’s license card with your new address printed on it. This is completely optional.

(This $33 fee is for a “replacement” card. You can see a full list of all California DMV fees in our complete guide.)

Your old license with your old address is still legally valid as long as your new address is correct in the DMV’s computer system.

How to Change Your Address (For Current Residents)

You have three ways to update your record. The online method is the fastest and easiest.

Method 1: Online (The 5-Minute Solution)

This is the recommended method. It is free and updates your record instantly.

  1. Go to the Official Portal: Navigate to the CA DMV Change of Address Online page.
  2. Log In or Create an Account: You will need to log in to your “MyDMV” account or create one. This is a one-time setup that verifies your identity.
  3. Enter Your Information: You will need:
    • Your current Driver’s License or ID card number.
    • Your Date of Birth.
    • The last 4 digits of your Social Security Number (SSN).
  4. Enter Your New Address: Follow the prompts to enter your new residential and mailing addresses.
  5. Submit: Confirm the change. Your address is now officially updated in the DMV system for free.

What this does: This instantly updates the address for your Driver’s License, your ID card, and all vehicles registered in your name.

Method 2: By Mail (The “Old-School” Way)

This method is also free, but it is much slower.

  1. Download the Form: You must download and print the Notice of Change of Address (Form DMV 14).
  2. Complete the Form: Fill it out clearly with your license number and your new address.
  3. Mail the Form: Mail the completed form to the address listed on the form itself (DMV, P.O. Box 942859, Sacramento, CA).

Method 3: In-Person (Only If You Need a New Card)

This is the only method to get a new physical license card with your new address on the same day (you’ll receive a temporary paper copy).

  1. Book an Appointment: While walk-ins are accepted, you will save hours by booking an “Office Visit Appointment“ online.
  2. Visit the Office: Go to your appointment and tell the agent you need to update your address and want to purchasea replacement license.
  3. Pay the $33 Fee: You will pay the $33 fee for the replacement card.
  4. Get Your Temporary License: The agent will update your record and give you a temporary paper license. Your new card will be mailed to you.

New to California? Your Process is DIFFERENT.

This is a critical distinction. The steps above are for current residents. If you are a new resident moving to California, you must follow the “New Driver’s License” application process.

You have 10 days after establishing residency to get your new CA license. This must be done in person.

  1. Start Online: Complete the Driver’s License or Identification Card Application (DL 44) online beforehand. This will give you a “Confirmation Code” to bring with you.
  2. Book an Appointment: Schedule an “Office Visit Appointment” at a DMV office.
  3. Bring Your Documents: You must bring all your REAL ID documents (Proof of Identity, 1 Proof of SSN, and 2 Proofs of your new CA Residency).
  4. Surrender Your Old License: You must hand over your out-of-state license.
  5. Pass the Tests: You must pass a Vision Test and the Written (Knowledge) Test. The driving (road) test is waived as long as you have a valid, unexpired license from another U.S. state.
  6. Pay the Fee: You will pay the $41 new license fee.
  7. Get Your Temporary License: You will receive a temporary paper license, and your new REAL ID card will be mailed to you.

FAQs

Do I have to return my California license plates when I move?

NO! This is a critical, 100% false myth. In California, the license plates stay with the car, not the owner. You never return your plates to the DMV. If you move out of state, you simply register the car in your new state and destroy the old CA plates.

I never got my registration renewal notice! Is this why? 

Yes, this is the #1 reason. Your renewal notice is mailed to the address on file. If you move and don’t complete the free online address change, your notice goes to your old house, and you could be fined for an expired registration.

Does this update the address on my driving record?

Yes. This process updates your official DMV file, which is the file used to generate your official California driving record for courts or insurance companies.

To be clear, what’s the real cost?

$0. It is free to update your address. The $33 fee is a choice you make if you want a new plastic card. The $41 fee is only for new residents transferring their license for the first time.

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