If you’re planning on moving to, from, or within the state of Georgia then you’re going to want to make sure that you know exactly what’s expected of you in terms of DMV paperwork. Like all states, you’ll be required to get your Georgia DMV Change of Address forms in order before you can truly settle in as a resident—including your address on your driver’s license and your vehicle’s registration, if applicable.
It’s good practice to take care of all of your paperwork as early as possible, especially if you’re going to be driving in the state or want to start applying for jobs. And since Georgia requires you to file your change of address paperwork within 30 days of becoming a new resident, there really isn’t a ton of time to waste.
Not sure where to start? That’s where we come in. We’ve put together all of the information that you’ll need to complete your Georgia DMV change of address and vehicle registration forms, so read up and then make your way to the Georgia Department of Driver Services to get started.
Will you need to get a new driver’s license if moving to Georgia from another state?
How do you get one?
To get a Georgia driver’s license as a formerly out-of-state resident you’ll have to go to a Georgia Department of Driver Services office in person to apply. Unfortunately you can’t do a Georgia DMV change of address online or over the phone, so you’ll have to set aside time in your day for a visit. Fortunately though, you can save yourself some time by filling out of a bit of information ahead of time online.
You will need to bring along the following documentation when you visit the GA DMV:
Check out the full list of accepted documents so you can be sure to bring what you need.
Note that if your name on your proof of identity does not match the name on your current driver’s license you will also have to bring along proof of name change, such as your marriage license, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change.
Is there a fee?
Yes. The fee for a new non-commercial Georgia driver’s license is $32. Combat veterans can get a new non-commercial driver’s license in Georgia for free.
Does a Georgia DMV change of address require a driving test?
No, provided that your out of state license is either currently valid or expired less than six months ago. You will have to pass a vision test though.
How long do you have to get a Georgia driver’s license or ID card?
Georgia requires new residents to get a state driver’s license within 30 days of becoming a resident, so act fast! Note that Georgia considers you a new resident as soon as you rent or buy a home in the state.
How long do you have to update your vehicle’s registration?
How do you update your vehicle’s registration as a new resident of Georgia?
You’ll need to head to a Georgia County Tag Office location in person to update your vehicle’s registration. Make sure to bring along the following required documents:
What is the registration fee?
The cost to register a new car in Georgia is $20. Visit the fees page for more information.
You have just 60 days after your move to update your Georgia driver’s license when moving within the state, so make sure you put this task on your to do list. Note that if your license is expiring within 150 days, you will not be able to change your address and will instead have to renew your driver’s license.
You have three options for updating your address on your Georgia driver’s license:
How much does a Georgia change of address cost?
Georgia residents get one free address change on their driver’s license within the license term, provided it is not within 150 days of license expiration. If the license is set to expire within 150 days a renewal will be required, which costs $32.
What information do you need to provide to update your address on your driver’s license?
To change your address on your Georgia driver’s license or identification card, you will need to provide:
What information do you need to provide to update your vehicle registration?
As for updating your vehicle’s registration, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
You can change the address on your vehicle’s registration online or in person at a Georgia County Tag office. Keep in mind that you will need to do this within 30 days of your move.
Will Georgia issue you a new driver’s license if you’re moving within the state?
Do you need to notify the Georgia DMV if you’re moving to another state without a registered car?
Nope. Once you get a driver’s license from your new state the Georgia Department of Driver Services will automatically cancel your GA driver’s license.
Do you need to notify the Georgia DMV if you’re moving to another state with your registered vehicle?
Do you need to return your Georgia license plates?
No, you can keep them.
Have any questions?
If you have any questions about changing your address on your driver’s license and/or vehicle’s registration when moving to, from, or within the state of Georgia, contact the Georgia Department of Driver Services directly at 678-413-8400.
We can help with that! Use our free online moving company directory to quickly and easily search reputable interstate movers in your area. Because moving out of state can be costly, we recommend reaching out to at least three different interstate moving companies to get quotes so that you can ensure you are getting the best price possible. Use our moving cost calculator to get an estimate on how much your Georgia move will cost.
Laura Mueller is a professional writer with nearly five years of experience writing about moving. She is particularly interested in topics around organization, home design, and real estate, and definitely has a few tricks up her sleeve after moving eight times in eight years during her 20s. Laura believes that moving should be as stress-free of an experience as possible, and is always working on new tips and shortcuts that she can share with readers on Moving.com.View all posts by Laura Mueller
