Moving to a new location can be exciting—but also challenging. There are many tasks to undertake, one of which is to update your driver’s license. Changing your driver’s license, even if you’re just moving within your town, is important so that it correctly reflects your address. If you’re moving out of state, it’s even more important. If you’ve ever wondered, do I need a new ID if I move to another state? Bankrate has the answers for you. We created this guide to help you know what you need to do to update your license and get back on the road legally in your new home.
Do I need a new ID if I move to another state?
All states require that residents update their driver’s licenses when they move. Depending on the state, this may be required immediately, or you may be granted up to a few months’ grace period after moving. The specifics vary between states, but each has its own legal requirements regarding how long you have to update your license. To help you through the process, it’s useful to know where to go and what information and documents you’ll need to update your license.
First, let’s consider what happens when you move in-state. If you remain in the same state, you still need to update your license to show the correct address. You are likely to have some time to do this, but it’s a good idea to take care of it as quickly as possible after the move.
Moving out of state can be a little trickier, since you’ll need to ensure that you have the minimum amount of car insurance required to meet the legal requirements of your new state, as well as obtain new license plates and a new driver’s license. It might, incidentally, also be a good time to shop for a new car insurance policy, since your new location might mean a lower rate.
In-state move
Some states and DMVs may allow you to update your address information online when moving within a state. However, this is not guaranteed and may not be an option. In many cases, you’ll still have to go to the DMV’s location to update your information in person. Doing so is necessary not only to keep the DMV and your license up to date, but is also critical to maintain a valid auto insurance policy. Keep in mind as well that the cost of your car insurance is influenced by home ZIP code (in most states).
Out-of-state move
Switching driver’s license from state to state can involve more steps than an in-state move. If you’re moving to a new state, you’ll need to update your license with a DMV in the new state as soon as possible. While most states offer some grace period, which can range from a few days to a few months depending on the state, it’s beneficial to get this process started as soon as possible to allow you time to sort out any potential complications.
Can I keep my out-of-state driver’s license?
This depends on state laws. You may wonder about this if you are a visitor or a student who is attending school in one state but lives in another. If you maintain a permanent residency elsewhere, you may retain your out-of-state license and use it legally in the state you are visiting. If, however, you are becoming a permanent resident of the state, you will need to apply for a license in your state of registration. In most states, you cannot have two active driver’s licenses at the same time.
How do I get a new driver’s license after a move?
You’ll begin the process of updating your driver’s license once your new address is secured. The exact agency or department that handles license updates will vary by state. One of the most common is the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which many states use. The guide below explains how to change your driver’s license state of issuance step-by-step:
How to update your license after a move
- Identify the appropriate department and the most convenient location. The state will determine which department to use, but you can look at their individual locations to see which is closest to your new home.
- Determine the necessary documentation. Contact the department or check their website to see what information and documentation they require when updating your driver’s license. Many states have a checklist drivers can use to ensure they have all the necessary documents before arriving for their appointment.
- Make a DMV (or equivalent) appointment. You can usually schedule an appointment online or by making a call to the appropriate department. Depending on the location and time, walk-ins may also be accepted, although you’ll want to verify this beforehand. Bring everything the website or representative said you would need and aim to show up with extra time, as DMV lines can be unpredictable.
- Pay the necessary fees. After providing the necessary paperwork on-site, you may be asked to fill out some additional paperwork before paying the associated fee to update your driver’s license.
- Receive your new license. Once the paperwork and fees are taken care of, the DMV (or equivalent) will likely have you take a new photo (unless you’re moving within state lines) before printing out your new license. This should be the last step to complete your license updating process.
What if my license is expired, suspended or revoked?
If your current license expired or was suspended or revoked, you may be asking yourself, what do I need to update my license? The answer depends on the circumstances.
If your license has merely expired in your old state, most states allow you to apply for a new one, though you may need to take a written or driving test or fill out additional documentation, depending on how long it’s been expired.
If your license was suspended, you generally will not be able to obtain a new one until the suspension is lifted. The National Driver Register keeps track of all drivers who have had suspended licenses, and your new state is likely to check this source before granting you a license.
If your license has been revoked, that usually means that your driving privileges have been terminated. Most states will not issue you a license until you take care of this, which may be done through state-specific processes and may include legal steps.
In general, if you are in this situation, you should contact the DMV in your new location to find out the steps needed to clear up your issues. You will likely need to present documentation that verifies your status before any steps are taken.
How do I find my DMV?
Depending on the license type you need and the state issuing it, you may be looking for a DMV, Department of Public Safety, Department of Transportation or a similar department. Below is a table highlighting which department you can expect to look for in each state and how long that state’s grace period is:
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*Hawaii does not have a state-wide Department of Motor Vehicles. Services such as vehicle registration and the issuing of driver’s licenses are handled by each county in the state.
What should I expect if I’m getting a new license?
Although the process and experience can differ between states, there are some commonalities you can expect when updating your driver’s license in any state. The list below is not exhaustive, but serves as a helpful baseline for what you can reasonably anticipate:
- Wait times: DMVs are often busy, and even when they aren’t, you may end up waiting on the staff to process documents and file paperwork. Sometimes, you may have to wait for your new license instead of receiving it immediately.
- Tests: Depending on the situation, you may have to take tests to prove your eligibility. These can range from a basic vision test to full-on written and driving tests. Test requirements may be more likely if your current license is expired.
- Fees: No matter the state, you must pay a fee for your new license.
- Paperwork: Some basic paperwork is usually required when obtaining a new or updated license.
- Headshot photo: Your new license will usually require a new photo that is taken on-site. If you moved within the same state, you’ll likely be able to keep your existing license photo.
Do I need to update my car insurance when I move?
Even if you’re only moving a few streets away from your current location, it is important to let your insurer know about your new address. Why? There are several reasons. One is to be sure that any documents that are mailed to you arrive safely at the right address. Just as important, however, your address impacts the rate you pay for your policy.
In almost every state (California is the one state that limits this), your ZIP code plays a role in determining your rate. Insurers decide how much to charge you by assessing how likely it is that you will file a claim. So, for example, if you move from an area that sees heavy traffic—and the accidents and insurance claims that result from it—to an area where there are fewer congested roads and lighter traffic, you might see your rate decrease. Conversely, if you move to an area that has a high crime rate, your premium could go up.
If you move from one state to another, it’s even more important to let your insurer know about your move because every state has its own minimum requirements for coverage. Insurance companies cannot legally sell you a policy that doesn’t meet state requirements, but need to know where you’re living to do so.
If your insurer is a regional carrier that doesn’t sell policies in your new state, you might also need to shop for new insurance when you move. You should start this process well before you move so there is no gap in your coverage. It’s easy to get quotes online from most major insurers, and you may even be able to purchase your policy digitally via a website or app.
Frequently asked questions
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The consequences will vary between states and circumstances. In some states, you may face stiff penalties and fines. In other states, you may only receive a ticket. However, you risk legal consequences in any state if you fail to update your license within the specified period.
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Most states focus on whether you are classified as a permanent resident. If you go to college out of state, but continue to be a permanent resident of your home state between semesters, you likely won’t need a new license. However, if you establish residency in the state you attend college, you will need to obtain a new and updated license.
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While you typically do not need to update your driver’s license before getting car insurance, you will usually need to do so before registering your vehicle and legally driving in your new area. The specifics will depend on your situation and local laws and policies. Remember, keeping your license and insurance up to date is part of the cost of car ownership.
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There are several ways to find the best coverage for your situation in your new state. You may wish to visit the local office of an insurer in your new town or city, or you might wish to work with an independent agent who can help you compare rates from a range of insurers. It is also becoming increasingly easy to shop for and purchase insurance online. You may be able to request quotes from potential insurers so you can compare rates and see who offers you the most affordable coverage. Average rates vary greatly across the U.S., so you may end up paying more or less than you paid in your old location.
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