How to Change Your Address with the California DMV: A Complete Guide
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When you move to a new residence in California, you are required to notify the DMV of your change of address within 10 days. It’s essential to keep your current residence updated in order to avoid penalties, miscommunications, and delays in receiving important documents.
You can complete a DMV change of address in California online, by mail, or at your local DMV office in person. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of changing your address with the California DMV. You’ll also learn more about your options, required documentation, and fees.
Why You Need To Update Your Address With the DMV
It’s important to change your address with the California DMV when you move for a few reasons:
- Legal requirement: California law mandates that you complete an address change within 10 days of moving, or you may face penalties or license restrictions.
- Car registration and renewal: The DMV needs an accurate registered address to send you registration renewal notices and other important documents.
- Identification: If you fail to update your address on your driver’s license or ID card, you may run into issues when using it for identification, voting, or other legal purposes.
- Legal notices: If a traffic ticket or other legal document is sent to the wrong address, you could miss important deadlines and face penalties, fines, or even a license suspension.
- Insurance: Auto insurance rates often depend on your address.
Methods for Changing Your Address: Online, In-Person, or By Mail
You can complete your California DMV change of address using the following methods.
Online
Updating your address online is the fastest option. Follow these steps:
- Visit the California DMV’s Change of Address online portal.
- Log in or create a new DMV account.
- Fill out the online form.
- Submit the request.
In Person
- Visit your local California DMV office (no appointment is required).
- Complete a DMV 14 Change of Address form.
- Provide any required documentation.
- Submit your form to a DMV representative.
By Mail
- Download and fill out a DMV 14 form.
- Mail the completed form and any required documentation to the following address: DMV CHANGE OF ADDRESS P. O. Box 942859 Sacramento, CA 94259-0001.
Documents Required for Changing Your Address
When changing your address with the California DMV, be sure to provide the following documentation:
- Your driver’s license or ID card
- Your social security card
- Your previous and new address
- Two proofs of new residence (utility bill, bank statement, rental agreement, etc.)
If you’re updating your address on your vehicle registration records, then you’ll also need to provide the following:
- Your current vehicle registration card
- Your vehicle identification number (VIN)
- The address where your vehicle is currently located
Fees and Deadlines for Address Changes
There are no fees associated with changing your address with the California DMV. However, if you wish to receive a replacement driver’s license or ID card, you’ll need to pay a small fee of $36 or $39, respectively.
California law requires notification of address change within 10 days of your moving date. This ensures accurate records and that you receive future notices at your current mailing address.
How Address Updates Affect Your Driver’s License, Registration, and Title
The DMV doesn’t automatically update your documents when you change your personal details. You can, however, request a replacement ID or registration card with your new address. You can also request to change your address on both your ID and vehicle registration simultaneously with MyDMV.
If you’re moving to California from another state, you must register your vehicle and complete a California Application for Title within 20 days of moving.
Common Issues To Avoid When Changing Your Address
A change of address with the California DMV is pretty simple. However, you might come across a few issues.
- Delays in processing: Keep a physical copy of your submission confirmation if you need immediate proof of your address change since processing can take up to 30 days.
- Not receiving mail from the DMV: Set up mail forwarding with the USPS to ensure you receive correspondence from the DMV.
- Not updating registration: Updating the address on your California driver’s license doesn’t mean it’s automatically updated on your California car registration. Check both boxes on the DMV 14 form.
- Online system errors: Occasionally, the California DMV website may experience technical glitches, so make sure you receive confirmation of your request submission.
- Not requesting a new license or ID card: The DMV will not automatically issue you a new license or ID card when you update your address. Request one and pay the required fee.
- Not notifying other agencies: You may need to update your address with other entities like voter registration, the Social Security Administration, or other agencies separately.
Additional Resources for Address Change and DMV Services
For official instructions, guidelines, and resources on changing your address, visit the California DMV’s official Change of Address website.
Keep Your Vehicle Registration and Insurance Updated After an Address Change
Your address can have a significant impact on your auto insurance rates. Insurance companies often use your address to assess risk and set premiums based on factors like local crime rates, regulations, traffic accident rates, and commute distances. When moving to a new residence, it’s often a good time to compare quotes and consider switching insurance providers.
EverQuote allows you to compare California auto insurance quotes side by side without the hassle of applying for separate quotes from multiple providers. Skip the frustration and get accurate quotes quickly.