Moving to a new state means updating your driver’s license address, and perhaps fortunately for you, you will get new attempts to get a better headshot. Maintaining the current address on your driver’s license is not only a legal obligation, but it also plays a key role in the way your insurance company customizes policies, calculates fees, and communicates with you. So, if you’re wondering, How quickly do I need a new ID if I move to another state? You are in the right place. I created this guide to help you renew your license and understand what you need to do to legally return to the road in your new home state.
Do I need a new ID if I move to another state?
All states require residents to renew their driver’s licenses when they travel. In some states, this may be necessary immediately. Alternatively, it may be granted within a grace period of several months after the trip. Details vary between states, but each has its own legal requirements regarding the time to renew your license. It can be helpful to know where to go and what information and documents you need to update to help you through the process.
First, consider what happens when you move around the state. Even if you remain in the same state, you will still need to renew your license to see the correct address. You may have time to do this, but it is best to take care of it as soon as possible after the move. (Please note that insurance companies may require you to renew your car insurance immediately after your trip.
It can be a little difficult to move out of state. Because you will need to get a new license plate and a new driver’s license as you will need to have the minimum amount of car insurance you need to meet the legal requirements of your new state. Coincidentally, new locations can mean lower rates, so this may be a good time to shop for new car insurance.
Movements in the state
Some states and DMVs may allow you to update your address information online as you navigate around the state. However, this is not guaranteed and may not be an option. In many cases, you will need to move to the DMV location to update the information directly. Doing so is important not only to keep your DMV and license up to date, but also to maintain an effective auto insurance policy. Also note that car insurance costs are affected by household zip codes (in most states).
Out of state travel
Changing your driver’s license from state to state involves more steps than within the state move. If you are moving to a new state, you will need to renew your license with the new state DMV as soon as possible. Most states can provide a range of days to months depending on your state, but it is beneficial to start time to sort out potential complications as soon as possible.
Can I maintain my out-of-state driver’s license and car insurance?
This depends on state law. You may wonder whether you are a visitor or a student who attends school in one state but lives in another state. If you maintain permanent residence elsewhere, you may have out-of-state car insurance and licenses and legally be able to use both in the state you are visiting. However, if you are a permanent resident of the state, you must apply for a license while registering. In most states, two active driver’s licenses cannot be used simultaneously. Additionally, insurance companies are a major factor in most state premiums, so they should constantly update their addresses after a permanent move.
How do I get a new driver’s license after moving?
Once your new address is protected, start the process of renewing your driver’s license. The exact agent or department that handles license renewals varies by state. One of the most common is the Automobile Division (DMV), which is used by many states. The following guide explains how to gradually change the status of your driver’s license.
How to renew your license after transfer
- Identify the right department and the most convenient location. The state decides which department to use, but you can see their individual locations and see the closest to your new home.
- Decide which documentation you need. Contact the department or check the website for information and documentation you will need when renewing your driver’s license. Many states can use checklist drivers to ensure all the documents needed before arriving for appointments.
- Create a reservation for the DMV (or equivalent). Typically, you can schedule an appointment online or call the appropriate department. Depending on the location and time, walk-ins may also be acceptable, but this should be verified in advance. The DMV line can be unpredictable, so we aim to show it in extra time by saying it is necessary by the website or representative.
- You will pay the required fee. After you provide the required documents on-site, you may be asked to fill out additional documents before renewing your driver’s license before paying the relevant fees.
- You will receive a new license. Once the documents and fees are taken care of, the DMV (or equivalent) can take updated photos (unless you move within the state line) for a new license. Some DMVs will print a new ID on the spot. Others will provide temporary licenses, and official licenses will be processed and mailed.
What happens if my license expires, is suspended or revoked?
If your current license expires, has been suspended or cancelled, you may be asking yourself, What do I need to renew my license? The National Driver Register tracks the license status for all drivers. The new state may check this database before granting a new license with the updated address. Here’s how each type of inactive license affects your ability to obtain a new license:
- Expired: If your license is simply expired in your old state, most states allow you to apply for one of the new states, but you may need to take a written or driving test or fill out additional documentation, depending on how long it has expired.
- Paused: For example, if your license is temporarily suspended due to an unpaid fine, the suspension is usually terminated when you pay. However, if you are suspended for serious traffic violations or accumulating too many disadvantage points, any state can face a certain period of suspension that must be provided before you acquire a new license.
- Rescinded: If the license is revoked, it usually means that driving privileges have been terminated due to a serious violation, repeated offence, or, in some cases, medical or legal issues. Most states do not issue new licenses until they complete the state-specific recovery process. This may include legal procedures such as court approval or reapply as a new driver.
Generally, if you are in this situation, you should contact the DMV in your new location to find the steps you need to resolve the issue. You may need to present a document to verify the status before performing the steps.
How can I find a DMV?
Depending on the type of license you need and the state where you are issuing it, you may be looking for a DMV, Public Safety Department, Department of Transport, or similar departments. Below is a table that highlights the departments that each state can search for and how long the state’s bounty period is.
What should I expect if I get a new license?
Although processes and experiences may vary between states, there are some commonalities you can expect when renewing your driver’s license. The list below is not exhaustive, but serves as a useful baseline that is reasonably predictable.
- Waiting time: DMVs are often busy and, if not, they will wait for staff to process the documents and submit them. Sometimes you may need to wait for a new license instead of receiving it immediately.
- test: In some circumstances, you may need to take a test to prove eligibility. These range from basic vision tests to complete written and driving tests. If your current license expires, testing requirements may be more likely.
- Fee: Regardless of your state, you will need to pay for a new license.
- document: Typically, when you obtain a new or updated license, you will need some basic documents.
- Headshot photo: A new license typically requires new photos taken on site. If you move within the same state, you may be able to maintain your existing licensed photos.
Do I need to renew my car insurance when I move?
As mentioned earlier, it is important to let your insurance company know your new address, even if you are moving from your current residence through several streets. why? Your location plays a key role in determining coverage requirements, premiums, and even how the insurance company communicates with you.
Insurance requirements
If you move from one state to another, it’s even more important to let your insurance company know about your moves, as all states have minimum coverage requirements. Insurance companies cannot legally sell insurance that doesn’t meet the state’s requirements but requires you to know where you live.
If your insurance company is a local airline that doesn’t sell policies in your new state, you may need to shop for new insurance when you move around. You need to start this process quite a bit before you move on. That way there will be no gaps in coverage. Getting quotes online from most major insurance companies is easy, and you can also purchase policies digitally via the website or app.
Rate Calculation
In almost every state (California limits this and, like Michigan, it does to some extent), your zip code plays a role in determining your rate. Your insurance company will determine how much you will be billed by assessing your likelihood of filing a claim. So, for example, if you travel from a high-traffic area and then have an accident or insurance claim that occurs, moving to a low-traffic area with less busy roads and lighter traffic can cause a lower rate. Conversely, moving to areas with high crime rates could increase the premium.
