PA License Change of Address: 15-Day Deadline, Online or Mail

To complete a PA license change of address, you have 15 days after moving to notify PennDOT, and the update itself is free whether you file online or mail in Form MV-63.¹ Once PennDOT processes the change, it mails you a small address update card to carry with your existing license. A brand-new card with the updated address printed on it is optional and costs $42.50.

The 15-Day Deadline

Under 75 Pa. C.S. § 1515, anyone holding a Pennsylvania driver’s license, learner’s permit, or photo ID must notify PennDOT of the old and new addresses within 15 days of moving.¹ That includes your mailing address if it differs from your residence, and it applies to non-drivers holding an ID card.

The statute doesn’t spell out a specific fine, but the real risk is downstream. PennDOT sends renewal notices, suspension orders, emissions reminders, and recall correspondence to whatever address is on file. If those go to an address you no longer occupy, you can miss a deadline that costs you your driving privileges, and “I never received it” is not a defense when the law required you to keep the address current. Your auto insurer also relies on your garaging address to price the policy, so a mismatch between PennDOT’s records and your insurer’s records can complicate a claim.

What to Have Ready

Whichever method you use, gather three things: your driver’s license or ID number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. PennDOT uses these to pull your record online or match your paper form.

For a standard (non-REAL ID) license or photo ID, you don’t need to submit proof-of-residency documents. You provide the new address and PennDOT updates the record. REAL ID holders should keep residency documents on hand in case they’re requested.

Changing Your Address Online

The fastest option is PennDOT’s online Driver Services portal, available anytime through the Driver and Vehicle Services website.² Log in with the three identifiers above, enter your new address, review, and submit. It takes a few minutes.

One limitation: the online tool doesn’t work if you’re moving out of state. If you’re relocating outside Pennsylvania but qualify for an out-of-state exemption, such as federal or state government employees and their families or active military, complete Form DL-82 and mail it to PennDOT.²

Changing Your Address by Mail

Download Form MV-63, “Change of Address,” from PennDOT’s website.³ The form has fields for your old and new addresses and updates both your driver’s license or photo ID and your vehicle registration at the same time. Print clearly, especially the street address, apartment number, and zip code, because a misread digit will send your update card to the wrong place.

Mail the completed form to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, PO Box 68287, Harrisburg, PA 17106-8287.¹ Mailed forms are processed in the order they arrive, so the turnaround is longer than the online route. Keep a copy until you have confirmation.

Updating Your Vehicle Registration at the Same Time

Form MV-63 covers both your license and your vehicle and trailer registrations, so a single submission handles both.⁴ The online system also lets you update your registration in the same session. Registration address matters because it controls where PennDOT sends renewal and inspection reminders, and it should match what your insurer has on file. Call your insurer separately after PennDOT is updated, since your garaging address affects your premium directly.

The Free Update Card, or a New License for $42.50

After PennDOT processes the change, it mails a free address update card to your new address within 10 days.² Carrying this card is not optional. You must keep it with your license, ID card, or learner’s permit at all times.³ The original card and the update card together are your valid identification.

If you’d rather have a single credential with the new address printed on it, order a duplicate license for $42.50.⁵ Request it online or complete Form DL-80 and mail it with a check or money order payable to PennDOT.⁶ The duplicate takes longer than the free update card since it has to be manufactured.

Commercial Driver’s License Holders

If you hold a CDL, you can’t use the standard online tool or Form MV-63. Commercial license holders must complete Form DL-80CD, “Commercial Driver’s License Application to Duplicate/Correct,” to update the address on file.⁷ The 15-day deadline still applies.

REAL ID Holders

A REAL ID address change follows the same online or mail steps as a standard license, and you’ll receive the same free update card.⁸ If you order a duplicate to get the new address printed on a physical REAL ID card, you may need to visit a PennDOT Driver License Center in person with proof-of-residency documents. Keep utility bills, bank statements, or similar documents showing the new address available in case PennDOT asks for them.

Voter Registration Comes Along

When you change your address with PennDOT, your voter registration is updated at the same time. Pennsylvania implemented automatic voter registration through driver’s license transactions, and address changes are included.⁹ The address change form itself can also update your voter registration information.⁴ If you’re relocating temporarily and want to keep voting in your original district, you can opt out during the process.

1
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. MV-63 – Change of Address
2
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Change a Driver’s License or Photo ID Name or Address
3
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Moving Within PA
4
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Change Your Name or Address (Vehicle Registration/Title)
5
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Payments and Fees
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Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Replace a Driver’s License
7
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. Commercial Driver’s License Application to Duplicate/Correct
8
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Apply for REAL ID
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Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Governor Shapiro Implements Automatic Voter Registration in Pennsylvania