While some people are buying a house in Sacramento, others are moving to Lathrop. Regardless of where you’re relocating to or why, you’ll want to start thinking about changing your address with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The CA DMV change of address process is simple and free, but knowing where to start can feel daunting.
All states have different processes; the DMV change of address California is quick, with minimal steps. If you’re moving within California, you can change your address online, whereas out of state moves require a visit to a local office.
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Change of Address California DMV – Step-By-Step Guide
A CA DMV change of address is simple, but it can be easily pushed back on your to-do list. Whether you’re new to the Golden State or are a lifelong Californian, you should contact the California DMV within ten days of settling into your new home. While straightforward, the California change of address DMV process changes based on your moving parameters; California residents can change their address virtually, whereas people moving from another state must update their address in person at a local DMV office.
DMV California Change of Address Process for California Residents
Are you completing a California DMV change of address as a Californian? Your change of address process will be easier than your out of state friends. Explore your options below.
DMV Change of Address California Options for Residents
- Virtually – Change your address online using the CA DMV change of address form
- Snail mail – Request a California change of address form to be mailed to you by calling 1-800-777-0133. The requested form will be sent within five business days. You can also print the form at home, fill it out, and send in the completed form to P.O. Box 942859, Sacramento, CA 94259-0001.
- In-person – You can change your address in person at nearest California DMV office.
Changing your address in California is free, but the state does not cover postal stamps, so an online address change is the most cost-effective. If you choose to complete your CA DMV change of address in person, you must bring the following required items for a successful address change:
- California driver’s license that is not expired
- Social security card with a legible social security number
- Proof of your old and new address (utility bills, pay stubs, bank statements, etc.)
It’s important to note that updating your address in the DMV system does not mean the DMV will automatically send you an updated driver’s license—you must apply for that separately, which we discuss below.
California DMV Change of Address Out of State
Non-California residents must change their address in person at a local DMV office by applying for a California state driver’s license. You start by filling out a driver’s license/ID application online before your appointment, which you can schedule online—applying for a new license results in a small fee.
In California, a standard, noncommercial driver’s license is referred to as a Class C, which, according to the state’s DMV fees page, costs $45. If you’re applying for any other type of license (commercial, A, B, M1, etc.), prices may differ.
What do I need to change my address at the DMV in California? For the most efficient visit, have the following documents organized and ready:
- Proof of identity: Driver’s license, passport, birth certificate, etc.
- Change of address form: Completed change of address form (DMV 14)
- Social Security card: Valid Social Security number; the number on your card must be readable.
As long as you have already passed the written and vision test in your previous state, you will not have to take another driver’s test to receive your new license. However, anyone not from the US will have to pass the state’s two-part exam to be authorized to drive in the state of California; you can study for this exam online. You must apply for a California license showing your new address within ten days of your relocation.
Congrats! You now know how to apply for a change of address and a California driver’s license. However, the CA DMV change of address process is not complete yet—you must still update your vehicle registration, USPS, voter registration card, utilities, and more.
CA Department of Motor Vehicles Change of Address
After the DMV CA change of address process is complete and your information is updated in the state’s system, you must change your address on your vehicle registration.
CA Vehicle Registration Change of Address Process for Non-Residents
If you’re moving to California from another state, you must update your vehicle registration in person and provide the following documents:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): Most DMV offices can verify your VIN, but you can also have a licensed verifier or a California Highway Patrol office employee do it.
- REG 343 Form (Application for Title or Registration): Completed and signed by all registered car owners. You can print it at home before your visit.
- Out-of-state title: If there is a change of registered owner or a California title request, you must supply the out-of-state title to update the address.
- Registration certificate or renewal notice: You’ll need the current year’s form or a letter from the previous registration jurisdiction confirming the vehicle’s registration period.
- Smog certificate, if applicable.
- Weight certification, if applicable.
You will need a Smog certificate if your vehicle is:
- Gasoline-powered from the 1975 model year or earlier, including motorcycles and trailers
- Diesel-powered from 1997 or earlier, or one with a Gross Vehicle Weight exceeding 14,000 pounds
- Natural gas-powered, weighing over 14,000 pounds
- Electric
- Gasoline-powered and less than eight model years old
Otherwise, you must schedule a Smog inspection before completing your change of address DMV CA.
When you arrive at your local DMV office, an employee will inspect your vehicle, and you will provide them with all the necessary documents and certificates. The standard base fee is $60, but prices vary depending on the car type, model, year, etc. You can calculate your cost with this handy vehicle registration fee calculator.
California DMV Change of Address Vehicle Registration Process for California Residents
Changing your address on your vehicle registration is easier for California residents. You’re already aware that your vehicle registration isn’t updated automatically when you change your address online. Still, you should also know that while completing the change of address DMV California online, there is an option in your MyDMV account to update both your driver’s license /ID card and your vehicle registration simultaneously.
If you utilize the online portal, California residents can easily update the address on their driver’s license and vehicle registration.
You must have the following information on hand to update your vehicle registration as a California resident:
- Proof of your old and current mailing address
- Most recent registration card
- The leasing company’s name if you drive a leased vehicle.
- The location address of your trailer or vessel (if applicable)
Your CA DMV change of address journey is nearing its end. Here are a few more steps you must complete.
California DMV Change of Address Drivers License – Resident
The California Department of Motor Vehicles won’t automatically send you a new driver’s license upon updating your address. You will have to log back onto your online portal and request a “replacement” online to receive an updated driver’s license.
You can also complete your DMV change of address drivers license California in person at a DMV kiosk. You must provide your first and last name, ID, driver’s license number, date of birth, and current address as they appear on your driver’s license. If you choose to replace your driver’s license using this option, be sure to update your address online at least 72 hours before using the kiosk.
Non-Residents DMV Change of Address Driver’s License California
If you’re a resident in another state, changing your address will result in you having to get a California state license. During this process, you’ll a license with the correct address, meaning there is no need to change or update anything.
Change of Address California USPS
You’re nearing the end of your CA DMV change of address process—the next step is forwarding your mail to your new address. You can easily complete this task online by visiting the USPS website and following the prompts or in person at your local post offce.
If you opt for in-person, remember to bring your license or ID so the retail associate can verify your identity. Upon arrival, ask the employee for a Mover’s Guide packet, which has the PS Form 3575. The associate will use the completed form and your ID to verify your identity to change your address.
CA State Tax Agency Change of Address – Notify The IRS
If you’re not waiting for a tax refund or other important documents, you can wait to update your address with the IRS when you file your next tax return. But if you want to change it sooner, follow these steps:
Fill out Form 8822, which requires:
- Date of birth
- New address
- Social Security Number, ITIN, or EIN
- Photo ID
You can call the IRS at 1-800-829-3676 and let them know but have the following information on hand: full name, old and new addresses, social security number, individual taxpayer identification number, or employee identification number.
If pen and paper are your preferred method of communication, write the IRS explaining your address change, with the completed change of address form and all the above information in addition to your signature. Send the form to the Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service Center, Kansas City, MO 64999-0023.
If you filed a joint tax return but are now living separately, complete California Form 3533 with your new address and mail it to the Franchise Tax Board at PO Box 942867 Sacramento CA 94267-0008.
Voter Registration Change of Address California
You can register to vote and update your address online at California Online Voter Registration. Click “Register to Vote” and follow the prompts from there. If you’re a current resident of California, you will be brought to your voter registration profile; if you’re not, you will register and fill out our new address in the process.
CA Change of Address for Utilities
We suggest changing your utilities to your new home at least 7 days before relocating. You will have to do this for each separate utility, and if you don’t already have a service in your name (you are from out of state or a far away city), you will have to open an entirely new account.
Southern California Edison, Pacific Gas & Electric, San Diego Gas & Electric, California Water Service Group, and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power are larger utility companies in California that may service your area.
Other Ways to Complete Your California Address Change
While you’ve completed your CA DMV update address, you’re not done yet. It’s key to update your personal information on the following, too:
- Insurance: Your auto and health insurance companies need to know that you’ve moved and where to send your information.
- Bank and credit card companies: Any banks or credit cards you’re associated with must know your new address to ensure you don’t miss any vital financial information.
- Social Security: Social Security needs to know your current address; you can complete this online.
- Passport: Changing your address on your passport isn’t dire, as it will still be valid, but updating it is still a good idea.
- Subscriptions: USPS will forward magazine subscriptions for 60 days, but packages won’t be forwarded at all. Make sure to contact all your subscriptions, informing them of your move.
CA DMV Change of Address Common Questions
What Do I Need to Change My Address at the DMV in California?
If you’re a California resident, you can do it online, but if you’re moving from another state, you must go to the DMV and change it in person.
What Happens if You Don’t Notify DMV of Address Change in California?
If you don’t change your address upon moving in or to California, you could face legal implications, such as a ticket when getting pulled over.
What Is the Easiest Way to Change Addresses for Everything?
There’s no way around the multiple steps it takes to change your address in California. Staying organized and following our step-by-step guide will ensure an easy and stress-free process.
What Are Two Proofs of Residency for DMV California?
Any of these are valid proofs of residency in California:
- Rental or lease agreement; tenant and landlord signatures must be legible
- Deed or title to your home with your name on it
- Mortgage bill
- Home utility (cell phone bill is sufficient)
- Bank statement
- Property tax bill
- School document
- Medical document
- Employment document
How Much Does It Cost to Change Address on California License?
The standard fee to get a new license is $45, but prices vary depending on your vehicle and license type. For example, getting a new commercial license will cost more than a standard one.
How to Transfer My Drivers License From Arizona to California
In recent years, 27,412 people moved from Arizona to California; if you’re one of them, you should follow the steps above for non-Calfornia residents to change your license.
CA DMV Change of Address Process Completion
Congrats on your recent move to or within California, and way to go on completing all the necessary steps to handle a CA DMV change of address before your big move. Whether you’re moving to Sacramento or think living in Lodi will better fit your needs, you need reliable Sacramento movers to handle your move. Mother Lode Moving has handled thousands of reliable moves and are experts on relocating in California. If you’d like our help, call (916) 631-4285 today for a free estimate.
