Moving is stressful enough without worrying about the DMV. But in Florida, forgetting to update your driver’s license address isn’t just an administrative oversight—it’s a crime.
Florida Statute 322.19 requires you to update your address within 30 days of moving. If you are pulled over with an outdated address after that grace period, you can be cited for a non-moving violation (ticket).
The good news? Most Floridians can skip the office line and update their address online in minutes. This guide will show you which method to use, the exact fees ($31.25 vs $27), and the special rules for name changes.
Address Change vs. Name Change: Critical Differences
Before you begin, verify which process you actually need. They are legally distinct.
- Address Change: (e.g., You moved from Miami to Orlando).
- Can be done: Online, In-Person, or by Mail.
- Prerequisite: None.
- Name Change: (e.g., You got married or divorced).
- Can be done: In-Person ONLY.
- Prerequisite: You MUST update your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA) at least 48 hours before visiting the Tax Collector.
Method 1: How to Change Address Online (MyDMV Portal)
Best For: U.S. Citizens with a “Real ID” (Gold Star) License. Cost: ~$27.00 ($25 replacement fee + $2.00 processing fee). Timeline: You receive the new card by mail in 7-10 business days.
How to Do It:
- Visit: Go to the official Florida MyDMV Portal.
- Login: Enter your Driver’s License number and DOB.
- Update: Select “Change Address.” You will be asked to enter your new residential address.
- Note: You do not need to upload proof of residency documents online if you are already Real ID compliant.
- Pay: Use a credit or debit card.
- Wait: Your new card will arrive in the mail.
- While you wait: The receipt you print out serves as your temporary proof of update.
Warning: Non-U.S. Citizens (Green Card/Visa holders) are often blocked from online changes because their legal presence must be re-verified in person.
Method 2: In-Person Address Change (Tax Collector Appointments)
Best For: Non-Citizens, CDL holders, or anyone who needs a card today. Cost: ~$31.25 ($25 base + $6.25 service fee).Timeline: Instant. You walk out with the plastic card.
Step 1: Schedule an Appointment Most offices are appointment-only. Check our guide on Florida DMV appointmentto find your local Tax Collector.
Step 2: Bring “Proof of Address” (If required)
- If you have a Gold Star: You technically don’t need documents for a simple address change, but we highlyrecommend bringing two proofs of address (lease, utility bill) just in case the clerk asks to re-verify.
- If you do NOT have a Gold Star: You are doing a full “Real ID” upgrade. You must bring Birth Certificate, Social Security Card, and 2 Proofs of Address. (See our out-of-state license transfer guide for the full checklist).
Step 3: Pay and Print Pay the $31.25 fee. They will print your new license on the spot.
Florida Name Change Guide: The “48-Hour SSA Rule”
If you are changing your name, you cannot use the online portal.
- Update Social Security First: Visit the SSA with your Marriage Certificate or Divorce Decree.
- Wait 48 Hours: The DMV database takes 1-2 days to sync with the SSA. If you go too early, the computer will reject you.
- Visit the Tax Collector: Bring your Original Marriage Certificate (or court order) and your current license. Photocopies are rejected.
- Pay the Fee: The cost is the same standard replacement fee (~$31.25).
Don’t Forget Your Car: Updating Vehicle Registration
Changing the address on your license does not automatically fix your car’s registration. You must update both.
- The Risk: If you crash your car, and your insurance finds out the car is garaged at a different zip code than listed on the registration, they may deny your claim.
- The Fix: You can update your registration online at the same MyDMV Portal. They will mail you a new duplicate registration card (Fees vary, usually ~$4.00).
- Need a copy fast? See our guide on how to get a copy of a Florida vehicle registration instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, 30 days. After that, you are technically driving in violation of Florida Statute 322.19.
No. Florida stopped using the “change of address sticker” system years ago. You must pay for a replacement card with the new address printed on the front.
You can do it online or by mail using Form HSMV 82101. You may also grant a family member permission to handle it for you using a Florida vehicle Power of Attorney.
No, changing your address has no impact on your driving record. However, keeping your address current ensures you receive suspension notices if you do get tickets. You can check your status anytime by learning how to check points on license in Florida.
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