Can i change my address on my nc drivers license online

How do I change my address? 

If you have an SC issued beginner's permit, driver's license, or identification card, and have moved within the state, you may change your SC address online, at an SCDMV branch, or by mail. 

You must change your name or address within 10 days of the actual change. When you change your name or address with the SCDMV, all of your vehicle and driver records automatically update and new vehicle registration cards will be mailed to you.

It is free to update your address online. You don't have to get a new permit, license, or ID card, but you may buy one if you're interested.

Please note that changes of address with the SCDMV are sent to the South Carolina Election Commission unless you choose otherwise. If you are processing a driver’s license transaction, you will have the option to register to vote or update your voter registration during the transaction.

Change my address
If you're visiting a branch to update your information, consider bringing all required documents to buy a REAL ID. To find a complete list of accepted documents, view the United States Citizens' Checklist (SCDMV Form MV-93). International customers should view the International Customers' Checklist (SCDMV Form MV-94).To change your address in person, you may visit any SCDMV branch.

Find an SCDMV branch

If you change your address by mail, you must complete the Application for Name and/or Address Change (SCDMV Form 4057). You can also update your information online or at any SCDMV branch.

How do I change my name?

You may change your name at an SCDMV branch and buy a new beginner's permit, driver's license, or identification card if you do all of the following: 

• Complete the Application for Name and/or Address Change (SCDMV Form 4057)
• Complete the Application for a Beginner's Permit, Driver's License, or Identification Card (SCDMV Form 447-NC)
• Present proper documentation

You must change your name with the Social Security Administration at least 48 hours before visiting the SCDMV to change your name.

The proper documentation includes any of the following:

• Marriage license
• Court order (issued by your county's family court)

It's $10 for a new license that reflects your updated name unless you're interested in a REAL ID. Your first REAL ID is $25 since it's considered renewing your license. You must have all required documents to purchase a REAL ID.

You only have one opportunity to change your name when you get married. You may not change your name again to a different variation of your married name without a court order.

Using a Preferred Name

A preferred name is a name that an individual prefers to use in place of his or her legal name, that shows a reasonable link to the legal name, and verifies through the Social Security Administration. For example, a preferred name is a shortened version of a person's full first name (Bill for William or Sue for Susan)

If you would like a beginner’s permit, driver’s license, or identification card to be issued with your preferred name, you must present three different documents showing your full preferred name. Each document must indicate that the preferred name has been used for at least fifteen years.

Acceptable preferred name documents include, but are not limited to:

• Financial records
• Government or military records from recognized governments (federal, state, municipal)
• School records
• Insurance records
• Employment records
• Medical records

Preferred name documents must be provided to the SCDMV in addition to all required acceptable documents for beginner permits, driver's licenses, or identification cards. 

North Carolina residents may update their addresses through the Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) website. Those moving to North Carolina from outside the state need to visit an NCDMV office to obtain a North Carolina driver’s license and update their registration.

Your eyes are tired from days driving down I-95. Your muscles ache from moving furniture. It’s a gorgeous North Carolina night and you long to just sit on your patio, sip a refreshing beverage, and bask in the beauty of your new home.

Don’t worry, you’ll be relaxing soon. But if you plan on driving in North Carolina, you must first report your new address to the NCDMV and insurance company to prevent costly lapses in coverage.

Jerry, the car insurance super app, understands how tough moving can be. That’s why we’ve created a guide with everything you need to know about updating your address in North Carolina, whether you’ve been a Tar Heel for decades or just a few hours. 

Compare insurance quotes from 50+ carriers with Jerry in under 45 seconds

How to change your address on a North Carolina driver’s license

No matter where you’re moving from, you must update your address with the NCDMV within 60 days of moving. Here’s how to do it.

If you’re already a North Carolina resident

North Carolina residents have two options for updating their address with the NCDMV—in person at your local NCDMV office, or online. When updating your registration, you have the additional option of mailing an Application for Duplicate Registration Certificate to the NCDMV.

Duplicate license or ID cards cost $14 while duplicate registration cards cost $21.50. Any online transactions will also have an additional $3 fee.

If you’re moving to North Carolina from another state

There is no online option for movers from outside North Carolina. You must report to an NCDMV office and complete all required paperwork in person.

Here’s what documentation you’ll need to bring with you to obtain your new North Carolina driver’s license and change your vehicle’s registration:

• Out-of-state license or one document proving full name and date of birth

• Social Security card  or other document proving Social Security number

• One document proving physical address in North Carolina

• For individuals not born in the United States, one document proving legal presence/lawful status

• A document proving liability coverage from an insurance provider licensed to do business in North Carolina

NCDMV offices can be pretty busy, so we recommend scheduling your appointment ahead of time. If you already have a driver’s license from another state, you likely won’t need to complete a written or driving exam before obtaining your North Carolina license.

If you’re moving to the state, there is a $56 fee for a new Certificate of Title. There is also a highway use tax of 3% of your car’s value, not to exceed $250, and a plate fee of $38 to $54 depending on where you live.

Other steps for a North Carolina change of address

Update your address with the United States Postal Service by filling out a change of address form. This will ensure your packages and letters get delivered to you in a timely fashion and allow you to update your voter registration. 

How to notify your insurance company of your North Carolina change of address

In addition to updating the NCDMV and United States Postal Service on your new address, you must also notify your car insurance provider.

This is not a hard process—it usually just takes a quick phone call to your insurance agent. Some companies make the process even easier, allowing customers to update their addresses through their app or an online portal.

Why notifying your insurance company of a change of address is so important

Notifying your insurance provider of your new address only takes a few minutes, but it can save you a lot of money and frustration.

Like most states, North Carolina requires that all drivers possess a minimum amount of liability insurance. By notifying your insurance provider of your new address, you allow them to verify that your policy meets state requirements. Failure to comply with North Carolina’s insurance laws could net you fines, a suspended license, or even jail time.

Insurance providers also adjust your rate based on where you live. If your area has higher property damage and theft rates, you’ll typically pay more to insure your vehicle. Failing to notify your insurance provider of an address change could be considered a form of fraud.

Update your address with your insurance provider as soon as you move and life will be a whole lot easier!

How to find affordable car insurance in North Carolina

Moving can be a pain—and depending on where you move, you may also see your car insurance rate go up. For this reason, it’s important to shop for a new policy every time you move. Jerry, the App Store’s #1 insurance app and licensed broker, makes it easy to compare quotes and save.

Download the Jerry app, answer some quick questions, and in less than 45 seconds, you’ll get customized quotes from top providers sent straight to your phone. Jerry will never waste your time hanging on hold or slogging through piles of needless forms. We’ll even help you cancel your old policy!

Drivers who switch with Jerry save an average of over $800 per year on their car insurance.

“I was literally floored by the savings Jerry found for me. I was paying close to $960 every 6 months and now I’m paying $380 every 6 months for identical coverage in North Carolina!” —Olivia Z.

Are you overpaying for car insurance?

FAQs

Can you change your address online with the DMV in North Carolina?

Can you update N.C. drivers license online?

What documents do you need to change your license in North Carolina?

Do you need an appointment for the NCDMV?