Moving to a new home in Georgia comes with a strict deadline: state law requires you to update your driver’s license address within 60 days of your move.
But here is the “secret” that trips up most residents: Updating your driver’s license does NOT update your vehicle registration.
Georgia splits these services between two different agencies. If you only update your license, your tag renewal notice will still go to your old address. This guide will walk you through the correct, two-step process to ensure both your ID and your car are legally registered at your new home.
Step 1: Update Your Driver’s License (DDS)
You must update your license first. The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) offers a specific benefit: You are allowed one FREE address change during the 8-year term of your license.
Method A: Online (Fastest) This updates your record immediately.
- Visit the Portal: Go to the official DDS Online Services page.
- Log In: If you have a “Gold Star” (Secure ID) on your current license, you can create an account to change your address.
- Enter Info: Input your new residential and mailing address.
- Result: Your record is updated instantly. You will receive your new card in the mail within 2-4 weeks.
Method B: The “DDS 2 GO” App (Easiest) Download the official DDS 2 GO mobile app. It allows you to change your address directly from your phone without needing a computer. This is often smoother than the website.
Method C: In-Person (When to do this) You must go in person if:
- You do not have a “Secure ID” (Gold Star) license yet.
- This is your second address change in the current term (you will have to pay a renewal fee).
- What to Bring: You must bring proof of your new address (see checklist below).
Step 2: Update Your Vehicle Registration (The Step Everyone Forgets)
Once your license is updated, you must separately notify the Department of Revenue (DOR) to update your car’s registration.
- Wait: Wait until your address is officially updated in the DDS system (usually instant online).
- Go to DRIVES e-Services: Visit the Georgia DRIVES website.
- Select “Address Change”: You will need your License Plate Number and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) or your Driver’s License number.
- Update: Enter your new address. This ensures your tax bills and tag renewal notices come to the correct house.
Note: You can also do this in person at your local County Tax Commissioner’s Office.
What are The Required Documents for Address Change
If you change your address online, you generally do not need to upload documents if you already have a Secure ID; the system validates you electronically.
If you go in-person, you must bring two documents proving your residential address. Common accepted documents include:
- Utility bill (Water, Gas, Electric) issued within the last 60 days.
- Bank statement or Credit Card statement (dated within the last 2 years).
- Lease agreement or Mortgage statement.
- Employer verification (paycheck stub).
Pro-Tip: Printed copies of digital statements (e.g., a PDF bank statement you printed at home) are accepted as long as they show your full name and new address.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, for one time. Georgia allows one free address change per license term. If you move againbefore your license expires, you will likely have to pay the standard renewal fee (typically $32) to update it a second time.
No. This guide is for current residents moving within the state. If you are new to Georgia, you must do a “Transfer Out of State License.” You have 30 days to visit a DDS center in person, surrender your old license, and pay the full license fee.
Generally, no. The mail-in form (DDS-23MIR) is reserved for specific groups, such as military members stationed out of state or students living away from home. Most residents must use the Online, App, or In-Person options.
Yes. When you change your address online or in person with the DDS, you will be given the option to automatically update your Voter Registration to your new district.
Conclusion
Don’t let a simple move turn into a bureaucratic headache. Use the DDS 2 GO app to update your license for free, and then immediately log into Georgia DRIVES to update your vehicle registration. Doing both ensures you stay legal and never miss a renewal notice.


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