Moving to a new location in Virginia, whether it’s Portsmouth, Williamsburg, Newport News, or Hampton, comes with plenty of perks. From historic charm to coastal living and a strong job market, it is easy to see why so many people want to call the state home. But before you can fully settle into your new address, there is one important step every resident needs to take: completing your DMV address change VA requirements. Updating your information with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles ensures your driver’s license, mailing address, and vehicle registration all match your new location. This keeps you compliant with state laws and makes life a whole lot easier.
Becoming a resident of the state has real benefits, including access to Virginia’s lower in-state tuition rates, simplified tax filings, and the ability to take advantage of local services that often require a verified Virginia change of address. Whether you are relocating for work, family, military orders, or simply a lifestyle upgrade, it is important to change your address with the DMV as soon as possible.
In this comprehensive guide, you will learn each step of the Virginia DMV change of address process so you can get settled smoothly and focus on enjoying everything your new community has to offer.
Virginia DMV Change of Address
The DMV address change VA process is different depending on whether or not you are moving to your new residence from Virginia or another state. Regardless, you’ll want to get in touch with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles to complete your Virginia DMV change of address.
DMV Change of Address VA | Current Virginia Residents
If you already live in Virginia and you move to a new address, Virginia law requires you to complete your DMV address change VA within 30 days. The DMV needs your new primary residential address in the state, and it cannot be a business address or a P.O. Box. If you would rather not have your home address shown on your driver’s license or ID, the state allows you to use an alternate address instead.
Here’s how the VA DMV change of address process works and the different ways you can take care of it.
You can update your address with the DMV using four different methods:
- VA DMV change address online: You can complete your VA DMV change of address through Virginia’s online Change of Address System. Simply visit the site, create a myDMV account, and enter your driver’s license number along with your date of birth.
- Mail: Fill out a VA DMV change of address form (Address Change Request Form) and mail it to:
- Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, PO Box 27412, Richmond, VA 23269
- Phone: Call the DMV’s other contact information line at (804) 497-7100 to update your details.
- In person: Stop by any DMV customer service center or a Virginia DMV Select location to complete your update in person.
There is no fee to change your address, but remember that Virginia law requires you to notify the DMV within 30 days of your move.
DMV Change of Address VA | Non-Virginia Residents
If you are moving into the state, new residents have 60 days to complete their DMV address change VA requirements. Unlike current residents, you cannot complete this VA DMV change of address online. Instead, you must schedule an appointment and visit a DMV customer service center in your new locality.
During your appointment, you will need to show proof of your new address in Virginia and verify your legal presence, birth date, and identity. New residents who are transferring an out-of-state license may also need to take a vision test, and in some cases, a driving test may be required before the DMV issues your Virginia license or ID card. Nonetheless, completing your VA DMV change of address for license is easy with the proper information on hand.
Change of Address in Virginia for Vehicle Registration
When you move to a new address, it is important to update your address with the DMV, so your vehicle registration records reflect your current Virginia address. The DMV address change VA process can be completed in several convenient ways, and you can request a replacement registration card showing your updated information.
How to Update Your Vehicle Registration Address
Online Through Your myDMV Account
Log in to your myDMV account to complete the change of address and update your registration details. After finishing the update, you can print your new registration card or request that it be mailed to you.
Online with VIN and Title Number
If you prefer, you can update your registration using the last four digits of your VIN and your title number. This option lets you complete your address change quickly without logging into an account.
In Person
Visit a DMV customer service center to update your registration address face-to-face and request a printed replacement card if needed.
By Phone
Call the Virginia DMV at (804) 497-7100 to update your address over the phone and keep your registration information current.
Updating your vehicle registration helps establish residency at your new location and prevents your old locality from continuing to assess personal property taxes on your car. It is an important step in the overall change of address DMV Virginia process.
Auto Decals in Virginia
If you move from a city that issues auto decals, return your old decal to the Commissioner of Revenue. After registering your vehicle in your new locality, you may need to obtain a new decal if the city or county still requires one. Most areas no longer use decals, but certain counties and jurisdictions continue to issue them.
Areas that still require decals include:
- Fairfax, VA
- Falls Church, VA
- Warren County
Keeping your decals, license plates, and registration information up to date ensures that your records match your new Virginia address and helps you stay fully compliant after your move.
Virginia Drivers License Address Change & Registration Transfer
When moving to the state of Virginia, you must transfer your out-of-state license within 60 days of becoming a resident. This step goes hand in hand with your overall DMV address change VA requirements and ensures your vehicle registration address and personal records match your new home.
To complete the transfer, bring a filled-out Virginia driver’s license application along with the following documents to a Virginia DMV Customer Service Center:
- Proof of identity, such as a passport or birth certificate
- Proof of legal presence in the United States, such as a U.S. birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, or permanent resident card
- Proof of Virginia Residency, such as a lease agreement or a utility bill
- Your Social Security Number, shown through a Social Security card or W-2 form
You will take a quick vision test, surrender your out-of-state license, and pay the $32 fee for an 8-year Virginia license. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot, and your new driver’s license will be mailed to your Virginia address within 15 days.
While you cannot complete a full transfer through the Virginia drivers license address change online system, updating your vehicle registration information online is still possible once your residency details are in the DMV’s system. Finishing both your license transfer and your vehicle registration address update helps ensure every part of your move is documented correctly in Virginia.
Virginia USPS Change of Address
When you are getting settled after a move, updating your mailing information is just as important as completing your DMV address change VA or Virginia DMV address change. One of the easiest steps on your moving to do list is taking care of your USPS mail forwarding.
You can register for a Postal Service change by picking up the free Mover’s Guide packet at any post office. Inside, you will find helpful coupons along with the official USPS Change of Address Form (PS Form 3575). Simply file the form by dropping it into the post office mail slot or handing it directly to a postal worker.
You also have the option to complete your postal service change online at USPS.com/move. To set up forwarding online, you will need a credit or debit card and a valid email address. The USPS charges a small $1.10 fee to verify your identity. Make sure your address is updated with your bank first, so the verification goes through without issues.
Once your request is processed, USPS will forward most of your mail for up to 12 months. Magazines, newspapers, and documents of that sort are forwarded for 60 days.
Virginia Taxes Change of Address
To update your tax records after a move, you can complete your Virginia change of address directly through the Virginia Tax Office. The easiest way is to file your next return using your new address and simply check the box that indicates it is a new address. If you have moved since your last filing, you can log into your Virginia Tax online account to update your contact details. Creating an individual account is as simple as long as you have a copy of your most recent Virginia tax return.
If you do not have an online account, you can still update your information by sending a letter that includes your name, Social Security number, your spouse’s name and Social Security number if you filed jointly, your old address, and your new address. Send the letter to:
Virginia Department of Taxation
Office of Customer Services
PO Box 1115
Richmond, VA 23218-1115
You may also fax your information to (804) 254-6113.
When you file a tax return with your new address, your address on file will automatically be updated with the IRS. If you prefer to do this yourself, you can use Form 8822 and mail it directly to the IRS.
Keeping your tax records updated helps ensure all notices, refunds, and tax-related documents go to the right place. It also makes sure your personal property taxes are billed correctly in the locality where you now live, rather than at a previous business address or residence.
Virginia Voter Registration Address Change
When you move within the state, updating your voting information is one crucial task to add to your checklist. After completing your Virginia change of address with the DMV and other agencies, you should also make sure your voter records reflect your new home.
To update your voter registration status, visit the Virginia Department of Elections website or complete a paper voter registration application. Once your address is updated, your polling location will be reassigned based on your new residence, ensuring you are eligible to vote in the correct precinct.
Change of Address Virginia: Utilities
After establishing Virginia residency, another important step is updating your utilities so everything is connected at your new residence. While providers vary by locality, many Virginians use a mix of public and private companies for essential services.
Common utility providers in Virginia include:
- Dominion Energy for electricity
- Appalachian Power for electricity in the western regions
- Virginia Natural Gas or Columbia Gas of Virginia for natural gas
- Verizon Fios, Xfinity, and Cox Communications for internet and TV
- City of Virginia Beach Public Utilities, Fairfax Water, or Newport News Waterworks for water and sewer
Other Ways to Complete Your Address Change in Virginia
Once you have handled your official updates, such as your DMV and tax records, there are still a few everyday details to take care of when settling into a new home in Virginia. These updates ensure your mail, billing, and services all transition smoothly.
Be sure to:
- Forward or update all subscriptions so they arrive at your new home
- Update your insurance policies, including auto, homeowners, and renters insurance
- Notify your financial institutions so your bank and credit card companies have your correct address
- Update your address with the Social Security Administration if you receive benefits
- Confirm your new address is on file with your employer, medical providers, and any services that send regular mail
- Review travel documents or identification if you plan to apply for a Real ID, since your address must be accurate in all systems
Virginia DMV Address Change FAQs
How Long Do I Have to Complete My DMV Address Change VA After Moving?
Virginia law requires you to update your address with the DMV within 30 days if you are already a resident and move within the state. New residents moving to Virginia have 60 days to complete their Virginia DMV address change and transfer their driver’s license.
Can I Complete My Virginia Change of Address Online?
Yes, many updates can be completed online. Current residents can use the Virginia drivers license address change online system or their myDMV account to update vehicle registration information and certain personal details. New residents, however, must visit a DMV customer service center to transfer an out-of-state driver’s license.
Do I Need to Update My Address With Other Agencies Besides the DMV?
Yes. After finishing your DMV updates, you should also notify the USPS for mail forwarding, update your address with Virginia Tax, revise your voter registration status, and inform your bank, insurance provider, and other financial institutions.
Give Off Load Moving a Call Today
If you are planning a Virginia moving experience or getting settled into your new home, taking care of your DMV address change VA and completing your Virginia change of address steps will help you start off on the right foot. Once your documents are updated and your services are set up, you can focus on enjoying everything your new community has to offer.
If you are preparing for a move to VA, reach out to Off Load Moving. As trusted Virginia movers, our team can make your relocation smooth and stress-free. Give us a call today at (757) 749-7212 to get started with a free quote.
