Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have different addresses on my driver license and my vehicle registration?
Within 30 days of moving, you should update the address on all of your DMV records, including but not limited to the following:
  • Your driver s license
  • Your car registration
  • Your car title

Failure to do so may result in fines. It is important to maintain the same address on both your Virginia driver s license, as well as your car registration, that way there is no discrepancy between documents. Find out more by contacting the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles at 804-497-7100.

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

How do I change my address on my car insurance?
You should contact your car insurance company directly in order to process a Virginia address change request. Make sure to follow the step-by-step instructions that are provided to you. Prior to making an in person visit, it is recommended that you call them to verify if the change can be made over the phone.

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

How do I change my address on my car registration?
Address changingon your car registration takes a couple steps. First, provide the following information to the VA DMV in person:
  • Your full name
  • Your customer number as it is listed on your driver s license
  • Your title number
  • The last four digits of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Then, order a replacement car registration certificate.

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

How do I change my address on my commercial drivers license?
It is highly recommended that you make an in-person visit at a local VA DMV Customer Service Center to process address change forms, if necessary. Keep in mind that you have 30 days to notify the Department of Motor Vehicles about your new residential location.

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

How do I change my address on my drivers license?
To make aVirginia address change requestfora driver s license, you will need to complete the process by phone, online, in person or by mail. By phone, call 804-497-7100. Complete the steps online by visiting the VA DMVNow page. The third option is to visit a Customer Service office near you by using our DMV locator.

If completing your request by mail, submit the Address Change Request Form to:

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles PO Box 27412 Richmond, VA 23269

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

How do I change my address on my ID card?
To “change my address” on an ID card, you have the option to change your address either by phone, online, in person or by mail.

By phone, call 804-497-7100. Complete the steps online by visiting the VA DMVNow page. Find a Customer Service office near you by using our convenient DMV locator.

If completing your request by mail, submit the Address Change Request Form to:

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles PO Box 27412 Richmond, VA 23269

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

How do I change my name on my car insurance?
You should contact your car insurance company directly and inform them that you are name changing. Be aware that the car insurance agent may ask you to present proof of your new name and submit it to them via fax or email. Each auto coverage provider has a different method though, so call or visit your local car insurance office to find out their specific requirements.
How do I change my name on my car registration?
The steps to change name information on car registration involves presenting the following documents at a nearby DMV Customer Service office:
How do I change my name on my driver’s license?
Name changing on a driver s license is done in person at your local DMV office. Present the required documentation:

Prior to your DMV visit, you will first need to process a name change with the Social Security Administration. To find a SSA office near you, visit their website and input your ZIP code in the appropriate box.

How do I change my name on my ID card?
To complete an official name change on your ID card, make an appointment as your local DMV office.Bring the documents below:

Beforehand, you must have made an official name change with the Social Security Administration.

How do I contact the Social Security Administration for my name change?
To find a Social Security Administration office near you to request a name change, visit their website and complete a “ZIP Code Look Up.” If you would like to speak to the SSA by phone, you can call them toll-free at 1-800-772-1213. You will need to present proof of name change documents in order for your request to be made effective.
How do I register emergency contact information with the DMV?
As of 2015, you now have the option to register emergency contacts with the VA DMV. There is no fee to do so and you must have a valid Virginia driver’s license, ID card, learner’s permit or CDL license to apply. To enroll in the emergency contact program, use one of three methods:
  • Online by visiting dmvNOW.com
  • In person by visiting any VA DMV customer service center or DMV 2 Go mobile office
  • Through the postal service by mailing all the contact information to the following address:
    • Data Integrity Work Center
    • Virginia DMV
    • P.O. Box 27412
    • Richmond, VA 23269
How much does it cost to change my name on my car registration?
Once you finalize the request to change names on car registration, your next step is to pay for a duplicate car registration certificate. The price for this $2, the actual name change is free, though.
How much does it cost to change my name on my car title?
When filling out name change forms for your car title, you will be required to request a Substitute Title and pay the $10 fee. Fees are subject to change. If you would like more information, speak to a VA DMV customer service representative by calling 804-497-7100 during operating hours between Monday and Saturday.
How much does it cost to change my name with the DMV?
The cost to change names with the DMV depends on the items you are updating. The actual name change request is free, however because it does not include an automatic replacement of any driver-related documentation, you will then be responsible for replacement costs.

In Virginia, replacement fees are as follows:

  • Car registration duplicate: $2
  • Car title replacement: $10
  • Driver s license copy: $20
What documents do I need to present for proof of residency?
Residents of Virginia must present certain documents when changing address with the state DMV. Along with proof of identity documents, you must also present proof of legal presence in Virginia, complete with your official address change. A few documents that meet this requirement include:
  • Deed/mortgage statement for rental or lease agreement
  • Income tax return documents
  • Utility bill (no more than two months old)
  • Voter registration card
  • Driver s license
  • Bank statement (no more than two months old)
  • Insurance bill/statement

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

What documents do I need to present if I am a non-U.S. citizen changing address?
There are four ways in which the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles allows a driver to update the address on their driver s license. Proof of residency is not required. However, you will need to present your current driver s license and follow proper instructions as they are provided to you.

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

What penalties will I face if I do not change my address with the DMV?
Failure to complete your address change checklist with the DMV may result in penalties and fees. By law, you have 30 days to notify the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles about your address change and update your DMV records

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

When must I change my address with the DMV?
In the state of Virginia, you have 30 days to notify the Department of Motor Vehicles of an official address change. You can request an address change card at no cost to you, but you must carry this document with your driver s license at all times. If you wish to have your new address on your driver s license, you can make this request in person or online. To complete the process online, visit the VA DMVNow page.

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