Change of Address with the California DMV: License and Registration in 10 Days

Stockton: 956 W Robinhood Dr, Stockton, CA 95207. San Jose: 25 N 14th St #125. San Rafael: 9 Vivian St. Call (209) 670-1556 if you want a second set of eyes on the form before it goes in.

What does California law require after you move?

Two sections, same rule. Vehicle Code §14600(a) says a person who moves to a new residence, or gets a new mailing address different from the one on the license, must notify the DMV of both the old and new address within 10 days. Section 4159 says the same for a vehicle owner or legal owner whose address differs from the one on the registration card or certificate of ownership. If you own three cars, all three need the new address.

Section 14600(b) adds a practical point: if your license does not show your current address, you show the address document along with the license when a peace officer asks for it.

Three ways to send the change of address

Source for the table: DMV online change of address, DMV updating your DL/ID, DMV updating your registration, and the DMV 14 form.

Who cannot use the online system?

The DMV page lists people who must use the DMV 14 instead, including anyone who does not currently have a California license or ID card and anyone without a Social Security number. Some records "require special handling," and the online tool tells you to mail the form when that happens. If you hold an ITIN and an AB 60 license, plan on the paper form or an office visit. Commercial license holders must keep a California residence address, or the DMV 14 instructions say the license is downgraded to non-commercial.

Does one change cover my license and my car?

Only if you choose both. The DMV says it does not automatically update every document when you update one. In MyDMV you can pick the license and each vehicle in the same request. On paper, the DMV 14 has separate sections, and each owner on a jointly owned car files their own form.

Do I get a new license or registration card?

No. The DMV says new documents are not issued when you change your address. The DMV 14 instructions tell you to write the new address on a small piece of paper, sign and date it, and keep it with your license, and to write the new address on your registration card and initial it. If you want a printed card with the new address, request a replacement license, ID, or registration card after the change shows as complete.

What the change of address does not do

• It does not update your insurer. Your auto policy lists the address where the car is kept. Moving across town, or from Stockton to San Jose, can change the rate and the documents. Call your insurer, or us, with the new address.
• It does not reprint the title. The DMV says no new documents are issued for an address change, so a title you already hold still shows the old address. If you are selling soon, see title transfer for a used car.
• It does not fix a missed renewal notice. If the notice went to the old address, renewal is still due on time. See the renewal notice.
• Voter registration is the exception. The DMV 14 updates your voter address unless you check the box to opt out.

Moving into California from another state?

A change of address is only for records the California DMV already has. If you moved here with an out-of-state title and plates, read registering an out-of-state car in California.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to change my address with the California DMV?

10 days. Vehicle Code §14600 sets 10 days for the driver license and §4159 sets 10 days for vehicle registration, counted from the move or the new mailing address.

Can I change my address on my license and registration at the same time?

Yes. In MyDMV you can select the license and each vehicle in one request. The DMV does not update them automatically if you only select one.

Does the DMV charge to change an address?

The DMV says notifying it of an address change is free. A replacement card with the new address printed on it is a separate request.

Will I get a new license with my new address?

No. The DMV does not issue new documents for an address change. Keep a signed, dated note with the new address with your license, and write the new address on your registration card and initial it.

Do I need to tell my car insurance company I moved?

Yes. The DMV change of address does not reach your insurer. The policy lists the address where the car is kept, so call with the new address the same week.

Sources

• Vehicle Code §14600 (10-day address notice, driver license). Checked 7 October 2026.
• Vehicle Code §4159 (10-day address notice, vehicle registration). Checked 7 October 2026.
• DMV, Submit a Change of Address Online (eligibility, 3-day processing, no new documents, license and vehicle together). Checked 7 October 2026.
• DMV, Update information on your DL/ID and DMV, Updating your registration information (online, mail, in person; free). Checked 7 October 2026.
• DMV 14, Notice of Change of Address (mailing address, one form per owner, voter box, CDL residence). Checked 7 October 2026.

Reviewed by Santo Militello, California-licensed Property & Casualty agent (CA License #1737723) and owner of Via Rapida Services. Insurance City Agency, LLC · CA License #6003045. Our licensed team brings more than 70 years of combined insurance experience. Call (209) 670-1556. Last reviewed 2026-10-07.