How to Update Your Driver's License When Moving to a New State
- You'll usually need to update your driver's license after moving to a new state within 90 or fewer days.
- To update your license, you'll need to visit the DMV and provide them with a few important documents.
- Changing states can have a major impact on your auto insurance premium.
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How to transfer your driver's license to a new state
Moving to a new state is exciting but requires some paperwork. One key task is updating your driver’s license to reflect your state and address. This is often needed for HR purposes at a new job and because states legally require it within a specific time frame. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process of updating your driver’s license in your new state.
Getting started: Find your DMV
Start by identifying the government agency in your state that handles driver’s licenses, often called the Division/Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Registry of Motor Vehicles, or Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Their website will list the required documentation and legal timeframe for updating your license. Some states require you to update your driver's license immediately after moving, so it's best not to sleep on this.
Source: The Zebra
What to bring to the DMV
Once you know when and where to update your driver’s license in your new state, unpack and collect the necessary personal documents to prove your identity and residency. Before heading to the license office, check your state’s specific verification requirements. Generally, you will need:
- Your current driver’s license from your old state. Make sure it’s not expired, or else your process changes from “switching your license from out of state” to “getting a new license,” which will require a driver’s test in your new state (more on that below).
- Additional verification of your identity, like a social security card or passport. Your state’s website will include a full list of valid documents.
- Proof of residence at your new address, such as a utility or a cable bill. Some states require two forms, so bring multiple options just in case.
- A payment method for any licensing and processing fees. Check online to find the form of payment your state requires – cash, check, or credit card.
Bring original copies rather than scans or photocopies of these documents. Don’t expect to be able to show an online bill from your phone as proof either – most DMV offices require a hard copy.
Zebra Tip: Ensure a temporary ID will work for upcoming events
Make sure you don’t have any major plans requiring a photo ID—like a flight—in the weeks right after you apply for your license. When I went to change mine, I received a paper printout version of my new license signed by the DMV worker. They told me they would mail the hard copy within a few weeks. I’m not sure if I could have flown without the hard copy, and when I went to grab drinks with my friends, I brought my passport as identification to be safe.
—Drew Pitt, Insurance writer at The Zebra
What to expect at the DMV
- Wait times: While the DMV is notorious for excruciating wait times, many states now offer online appointments and virtual line saving tools that can minimize time spent standing in line. Wait times in the summer months are longest, so keep that in mind if you’re completing a move during that timeframe.
- Vision test: You’ll need to pass a vision test to make sure your eyes are reliable on the road. If you wear prescription glasses or contacts, the DMV will make a note on your new license, making it against the law to drive without your glasses or contacts.
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Payment: Accepted payment methods vary by state, so check online for specific requirements. If in doubt, it never hurts to be overprepared and bring cash, a checkbook, and a credit or debit card.
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Road knowledge test: Some states may require a test before issuing a new driver's license. This is especially likely if your previous license is expired or if you are under 18 years old. Check with your new state's DMV for details.
More tips for changing your driver's license to a new state
You might have to take a driving test
Drivers under 18 may need to take a driver’s test in their new state or provide proof of completed driving classes – even if their license hasn’t yet expired. If your license from your old state has expired, you won’t be able to transfer your license to your new state. Instead, you will need to follow the steps to get a new license in that state, which will include a driver’s test (yes, like the one you took when you were 16).
Your current license must be in good standing before obtaining one in a new state
If your license is suspended or revoked in your previous state, you'll likely need to get it back to "valid" status before you can get a license in a new state.
You’ll need to update your car insurance
You will also need to update your auto insurance when moving. Every state requires drivers to carry a minimum level of liability insurance coverage. Those requirements vary from state to state, and your insurance rates vary from ZIP code to ZIP code.
You must report an address change to your insurance company or else you could risk being dropped or having a claim denied. This is because the insurance company wants to make sure they are rating your policy on the correct ZIP code and accounting for any other people who may live at the new location, such as a new spouse.
Zebra tip: Find the best policy in your new state
Since you'll already need to update your insurance policy to meet your new state's minimums, it's a great opportunity to shop around. The best and most affordable insurance companies often vary from state to state, and your current insurer may not be the best option in your new home.
While you’re considering changes to your policy, search for quotes to see if you should stick with your same insurance company. You can make the switch to someone who can better serve your coverage needs, budget, and service-level preference.
Final takeaways
If you're over the age of 18, and have a license that isn't suspended or expired, updating your driver's license to a new state is fairly straightforward. More often than not, the whole process takes under an hour if your DMV isn't too busy.
Just remember to check out your new state's DMV website before heading to their offices. Bringing the right documents and forms of payment, and setting an appointment time can save you time and keep you from having to wait in the DMV line multiple times.
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About The Zebra
The Zebra is not an insurance company. We publish data-backed, expert-reviewed resources to help consumers make more informed insurance decisions.
- The Zebra’s insurance content is written and reviewed for accuracy by licensed insurance agents.
- The Zebra’s insurance editorial content is not subject to review or alteration by insurance companies or partners.
- The Zebra’s editorial team operates independently of the company’s partnerships and commercialization interests, publishing unbiased information for consumer benefit.
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