How To Change Your DMV Registration In California

In our year of COVID, it might seem like life has come to a screeching halt, and you might not drive much anymore, but life does go on, and there are certain periodic chores that are more confusing than ever.

If you are moving locally within California, or you’re moving to California from another state, you will need to register with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). For most people who already have a California driver’s license, it’s incredibly easy, but there are a lot of exceptions.

Who can change their address online?

If you’re like most Ace Moving customers, you’re doing a local move from one California city to another. If that is the case, you should be able to click here and your new license will arrive in the mail within a few days.

Who can’t change their address online?

If you don’t have a California driver’s license or a Social Security card, you will need to mail in your application. If you have a California CDL, but your home is out of state, online address change is not for you. You have to mail your application if you lease your car, if you live outside the United States, if you have an Army or Fleet Post Office Box as your mailing address, or if you have applied for, but have not yet received, your Real ID.

Who needs to renew in person?

If you are new to California and have an out of state driver’s license, you will need to go into a local DMV office, fill out the application, get fingerprinted, take the eye exam and the written exam. It’s recommended that you make an appointment. If you do not have a valid driver’s license, you will need to take the driving test as well.