Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have different addresses on my driver license and my vehicle registration?

It is highly suggested that you maintain the same address on all your DMV records. If you need to update both the information on your driver s license, as well as on your car registration, you can do it through the CA DMV website. For more information on how to change your address: How to Handle a Change of Address in California

How do I change my address on my car insurance?

When address changing with your car insurance, it is advised that you contact your insurance company directly. Once you are in touch with a customer service agent, they will be able to guide you through the step-by-step process. Make sure to have both your old and new addresses available upon request.

For more information: How to Handle a Change of Address in California

How do I change my address on my car registration?

You can complete a CA DMV car registration address change either online or by mail; an in-person DMV visit is not necessary. Quickly update your records by visiting the CA DMV Change of Address page and follow the step-by-step instructions.

You will need your most current registration card, your old address, your new residential address and the name of your leasing company, if it applies.

If you feel more comfortable completing your California “change my address” request by mail, you can do so by filling out Notice of Change of Address form from the CA DMV website. Thereafter make sure to mail it to the address below:

DMV Change of Address P.O. Box 942859 Sacramento, CA 94259-0001

To learn more, visit the Change Your Address page.

How do I change my address on my commercial drivers license?

To complete a CA CDL address change, you will need to follow the same guidelines for a standard driver s license. You will have the option to change your address online, by mail or in person.

Online

For your convenience, California offers an online service to update your address. For more information: How to Handle a Change of Address in California

In person

You can also make a trip to your local DMV office to process this change.

By mail

If you feel more comfortable completing your California “change my address” request by mail, you can do so by filling out Notice of Change of Address form from the CA DMV website. Thereafter make sure to mail it to the address below:

DMV Change of Address P.O. Box 942859 Sacramento, CA 94259-0001

For more information: How to Handle a Change of Address in California

How do I change my address on my drivers license?

California offers an easy, online service for a motor vehicle change of address on your driver s license. You can begin the process by visiting the CA DMV Change of Address page.

However, in order to utilize this service, you must have:

  • A California drivers license or ID card
  • A Social Security Number
  • An address in the United States

If you would prefer to complete your change of address by mail, simply fill out the Notice of Change of Address form from the CA DMV website. Then send it to the following address:

DMV Change of Address P.O. Box 942859 Sacramento, CA 94259-0001

You can also change your address at any local DMV office. Find one near you by using our DMV locator. It is important to note, however, that a new drivers license will not be mailed to you when changing address. For more information: How to Handle a Change of Address in California

How do I change my address on my ID card?

The process to complete an ID card address change is the same as the one you would follow for a driver s license.

To get started, you can take advantage of an easy, online service for address changing on your identification card. Simply visit the CA DMV Change of Address page.

However, in order to utilize this service, you must have:

  • A California drivers license or ID card
  • A Social Security Number
  • An address in the United States

If you would prefer to complete your change of address by mail, fill out the Notice of Change of Address form from the CA DMV website. Then send it to the following address:

DMV Change of Address P.O. Box 942859 Sacramento, CA 94259-0001

You can also change your address at any local DMV office. Find one near you by using our DMV locator. It is important to note, however, that a new ID card will not be mailed to you when changing address. For more information: How to Handle a Change of Address in California

How do I change my name on my car insurance?

In order to complete any name change forms with your car insurance, you will need to contact your insurance company directly. They will most likely ask you to submit proof of official name change documents in the form of a marriage certificate, court order or divorce decree. Once you have done so, the steps to change name credentials should be fairly simple.

How do I change my name on my car registration?

California allows drivers to make a name changing request either in person or by mail; online is currently not an available option. Whether you decide to complete the process at a nearby office or by mail, you will need to show proof of the following documents:

  • Your car title (make sure to add your new name at the top)
  • A filled out Statement of Facts (Section F will allow you to add your new name)

To mail in your documents, send them to:

Department of Motor Vehicles Vehicle Registration Operations P.O. Box 942869 Sacramento, CA 94269

If you need further clarification or want to make sure you have the correct items, contact the CA DMV 1-800-777-0133. You may also use our DMV locator for your convenience.

How do I change my name on my driver’s license?
The process for a CA name change request is done in person at a DMV office. You will need to:
  • Fill out a Driver License or Identification Card Application Form DL 44 or DL 44C.
  • Get a picture taken.
  • Provide your thumb print.
  • Show proof of name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree or other court-approved document.
  • Be ready to make payment for an ID fee.

Prior to changing your name with the DMV, you will first need to update your records with the Social Security Administration. That is because the DMV double-checks your new name with the SSA before proceeding with your request.

How do I change my name on my ID card?

The process to request a name change on your ID card with the DMV is the same as modifying the name on your driver s license. You will need to make a physical appointment at a nearby office to get started. Upon arrival, a driver s license agent will ask you to present the following items:

  • A completed Driver License or Identification Card Application (Form DL 44 or DL 44C)
  • Get your picture taken.
  • Provide your thumb print.
  • Provide proof of name change, such as a marriage license, divorce decree or other court-approved document.
  • Be ready to make payment for an ID fee.

Keep in mind that the DMV will be unable to process your request unless you have petitioned for a name change with the Social Security Administration first.

How do I contact the Social Security Administration for my name change?

When it comes to a California legal name change with the Social Security Administration, you can contact one of their nearby offices. By entering your ZIP code on their website, you will easily obtain information of their offices in your area. You can also contact the Social Security Administration by phone at their toll-free number 1-800-772-1213.

After you change your name with the SSA, you must perform a DMV name change.

How much does it cost to change my name on my car registration?

In California, it is free to change your name on your car registration, as long as you are not requesting a replacement. If you request a car registration replacement, you will have to pay a fee up to $19. The CA DMV accepts cash, checks, money orders, credit cards and debits cards.

How much does it cost to change my name on my car title?

In California, it is free to change your name on your car title, as long as you are not requesting a replacement. A replacement car title costs $19. The fee can be paid with cash, check, money order, credit card or debit card.

How much does it cost to change my name with the DMV?

In California, it is free to change your name on DMV records, such as:

  • Your drivers license
  • Your ID card
  • Your car registration
  • Your car title
What documents do I need to present for proof of residency?

California is one of the states that does not require proof of address changing when you move. For example, it will be unnecessary to present a utility bill or a W-2 form containing your new residence. Instead, providing your new address should suffice. That s because they will already have information in their system verifying your identity.

Furthermore, in order to change your address online, you must be a certified user with the DMV. However, if you would like further clarification, contact the CA DMV at their toll-free number 1-800-777-0133.

For more information: How to Handle a Change of Address in California.

What documents do I need to present if I am a non-U.S. citizen changing address?

If you are a non-U.S. citizen and have a temporary California drivers license, you will need to provide an updated birth date and legal presence documents. These last documents must include your new address and be issued by the Department of Homeland Security.

For more information: How to Handle a Change of Address in California

What penalties will I face if I do not change my address with the DMV?

Any driver who moves within California or has recently made this state its new home is required to make an official address change with the DMV. Failure to do so may result in select fees and/or fines. For more information: How to Handle a Change of Address in California

When must I change my address with the DMV?

You must change your address with the DMV within 10 days of moving to your new residential address. Temporary mailing addresses will not be accepted. For more information on how to change your address: How to Handle a Change of Address in California.