How to Change Address on Driver’s License WA (Free vs. $20 Guide)

December 21, 2025
4 Min Read

Moving houses in Washington State? You have 10 days to notify the Department of Licensing (DOL).

If you don’t, you risk missing your renewal notice or getting a ticket for outdated records. But here is the good news: You probably don’t need to visit an office.

Most drivers can update their address online in 2 minutes for free. You only pay if you want a new plastic card printed.

This guide explains how to use License eXpress to update your driving record, the critical “Two-Step” rule for car owners, and when you actually need to go in person.

Free Database Update vs $20 New Washington License Card

Before you log in, decide if you want to pay money. Washington law does not require your plastic card to show your current address, as long as the DOL database is updated.

  • Option A: Update Record Only (FREE)
    • What happens: The DOL updates your file. You write your new address on the back of your current license with a permanent marker.
    • Cost: $0.00.
    • Verdict: Perfectly legal and recommended for most movers.
  • Option B: Get a New Card ($20.00)
    • What happens: The DOL mails you a fresh license with the new address printed on the front.
    • Cost: $20.00 (Standard) or varies for Enhanced Driver Licenses (EDL).
    • Verdict: Best if your current card is damaged, lost, or expiring soon anyway.

Washington DOL License eXpress Address Change (License + Vehicle Double Update)

Best For: Everyone. Time: 2 Minutes.

You do not need to upload lease agreements or bills for this. You simply need your login.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Log In: Go to the DOL License eXpress portal.
  2. Update License: Click “Change of Address” under the Driver License section. Type your new address.
  3. CRITICAL STEP (The “Double Click”):
    • Updating your license does NOT automatically fix your car registration.
    • You must go back to the dashboard, select your vehicles, and click “Change of Address” for each car you own.
    • Warning: If you skip this, your car tabs will be mailed to your old house, and you may end up driving with expired tags.

Suspended License? You can still update your address if your license is suspended. In fact, you should, because the DOL sends legal notices by mail. Update your address first, then check our guide on how to reinstate a suspended license in Washington to ensure you receive your hearing dates.

In-Person Washington Address Change: Driver Licensing Office (LSO) vs Vehicle Office (VLO)

Best For: People who need a new photo or cannot use the online system.

If you decide to visit an office, ensure you go to the right one.

  • Go to: A Driver Licensing Office (LSO).
  • Do NOT Go to: A Vehicle Licensing Office (VLO)—they handle tabs, not licenses.
  • Appointment: Walk-in wait times can be long. We strongly recommend checking our Washington DOL appointment guide to book a slot before you drive there.

New Washington Residents: 30-Day License Transfer + Vehicle Registration Deadlines

If you just moved here from another state, a simple address change isn’t enough. You have two deadlines:

  1. License: You have 30 days to get a Washington Driver’s License.
  2. Vehicles: You have 30 days to register your car and get Washington plates.

The “Tax” Shock: When you register your car, you will likely pay a “Use Tax” (difference in sales tax) if you owned the car for less than 90 days. Before you visit an office, read our checklist for how to do an out-of-state title transfer in Washington to avoid being turned away for missing ownership proofs.

Washington Address Change Impacts: RTA Tax Zones, Voter Registration, and Driving Record

1. The RTA Tax (Car Tabs) If you move into the “RTA Zone” (parts of King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties), your car tabs will become significantly more expensive due to the transit tax. Conversely, if you move out of the city, your fees might drop.

2. Voter Registration When you update your address in License eXpress, the system will ask: “Do you want to update your voter registration?”

  • Select YES. This automatically notifies the Secretary of State so your ballot goes to the right place.

3. Driving Record Accuracy After the update, it is smart to verify that the change “stuck.” You can view your Washington driving record online to confirm the new address is reflecting properly and that no old tickets are lingering on your file.

Conclusion

Don’t overcomplicate it. Log in to License eXpress today. Update your Driver License first, then update your Vehicle Registration second. You don’t need to pay the $20 unless you really want a shiny new card. Just write the new address on the back of your old one, and you are compliant with Washington law.