Moving to a new address can be an incredibly stressful experience. You must do crucial tasks like packing up your belongings, recruiting help to load the moving truck, and ensuring you have the utilities set up for move-in day.
However, there is a massively long list of smaller but equally as vital tasks. It’s easy to feel like you have 99 problems to deal with, but is a new driver’s license one of them?
The answer might surprise you! Let’s get started!
Do You Need a New Driver’s License if You Change Addresses?
Whether you’ll need to get a new driver’s license when changing addresses varies by where you’re moving. If you’re staying within the same state, most states do not require you to get a new driver’s license. However, they typically require reporting your change of address to the DMV.
So while your vehicle registration and driver’s license may have your old address, your updated address will be in their database.
However, when moving across state lines, you will have a certain amount of time once you establish residency. This will require registering your vehicle and getting your new driver’s license. Typically, states allow new residents a 10-day grace period to complete the necessary process.
Do All States Handle Address Change the Same?
The way states handle address changes can be very different depending on where you’re moving. Some states make it easier than others to change your address. Many states allow residents to submit their updated information through an online portal.
Residents may or may not receive an updated driver’s license displaying their current address. However, some states haven’t entered the modern era and require drivers to come to a DMV facility to update their addresses.
Depending on the state, drivers typically have anywhere from 10 to 90 days to update their address with the DMV. Failure to do so could result in a ticket or fine should law enforcement pull you over. Check the requirements and research the easiest way to update your address where you’re moving.
What Is the Best Way to Change Address?
The best way to change your address is through your state’s online DMV portal. All you need to do is input your information, and the state will update it. They may not always mail you an updated vehicle registration or driver’s license with your new address. However, your address change will be legal, and you’ll avoid any potential issues if law enforcement stops you.
However, changing your address through an online portal isn’t available in every state. Some states require residents to make an appointment and visit a local DMV location to go through the change of address process. This may not be very convenient, but it’s a requirement if you want to stay legal.
How Far in Advance Should I Change My Address When Moving?
Changing your address at the DMV for your driver’s license and vehicle registration will likely need to wait until you move. If you want to do it sooner, you’ll want to check with your local DMV and see if there are any restrictions on how soon you can update it. However, you’ll need to change your address with more than just the DMV.
When you move, you can’t forget to forward your snail mail to your new address. Luckily, the USPS makes this relatively easy, and it is very affordable. You can schedule this service to take effect on the day you arrive at your new address. This helps ensure you don’t miss any essential mail through the USPS.
Do You Have to Notify the Post Office When You Move?
If you want to ensure you don’t miss any essential documents through the USPS, you’ll want to file a change of address with them.
You want to do this at least two weeks in advance to ensure their database has time to update and adjust everything. If not, you could have to deal with issues getting mail as you transition from the old address to the new address.
How Do You Find Information on Driver’s License Policies in Your State?
You want to know the requirements for your particular state. The only way to get the most up-to-date information on the various rules, conditions, and license policies for your stay is to visit their website. Luckily, finding their websites is relatively easy.
Many states provide a tremendous amount of information and make it convenient to find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. You’re likely not the first to experience this situation, especially when it comes to moving. As a result, a simple Google search will probably help you find your state’s DMV page and any necessary information.
Have you ever moved between states? What are some moving tips you wish you’d known earlier?
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