Buzz
Relocating, whether locally or across the country, involves a lengthy and often tedious list of address updates. While some changes can wait, notifying your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles about your new address is time-sensitive, and the deadline is stricter than many realize.
Holding onto an out-of-state driver’s license for sentimental value, delaying vehicle registration updates to avoid taxes, or skipping the DMV visit due to the required paperwork and potential testing might seem tempting. However, failing to update your license and registration after moving—whether to a new state or within the same state—can result in fines or even a suspended license if discovered.
What is the deadline for updating my driver’s license and vehicle registration?
Every state sets its own deadlines for updating your address with the DMV (for in-state moves) or obtaining a new driver’s license and vehicle registration (for out-of-state moves). These deadlines vary widely, from immediately in Michigan to up to a year in Wyoming.
While it’s essential to verify your state’s specific rules, you’ll likely need to update your in-state address within a week or two and your out-of-state details within a month or two. (Exceptions typically apply to college students, military personnel, and other temporary nonresidents.)
Keep in mind that most states require your driver’s license and vehicle registration to match, meaning you can’t legally hold a license from one state while registering your vehicle in another.
Is there a chance I’ll get caught?
Possibly. While some people manage to drive for months or even years with mismatched licenses and registrations, and even renew them in another state, getting pulled over or involved in an accident could expose the discrepancy. This might lead to penalties such as fines, tickets, or even having your vehicle impounded.
Another factor to consider is your vehicle insurance. Informing your insurance provider about your move is crucial, as it may affect your coverage. Additionally, relocating to a new state could render you ineligible for your current policy or insurer, and having an in-state policy is mandatory.
This could pose issues in the event of an accident, even if your insurance is updated but your license and registration are not. Some states have leveraged insurance data to track down and penalize drivers whose registrations don’t align with their residency.
Steps to Update Your License and Registration
For in-state relocations, updating your address is often as straightforward as visiting your state’s DMV website. A new physical license isn’t typically issued unless you visit the DMV in person with the necessary documentation.
Out-of-state moves require a more detailed process, usually involving a DMV visit, a stack of documents (such as your vehicle title, old license, registration, additional ID, and proof of address), payment of applicable taxes and fees, and passing a vision test.
