What Are the Basics?
When you move, regardless of whether you are moving within the state or interstate, you must notify the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles to change your address on your driver’s license and vehicle registration.
How Do I Change My Address If I Am Moving Within Ohio?
You can change your address on both your driver’s license and registration online, by mail, or in person. You will need to have your Zip code, driver’s license number, Social Security number, date of birth, new address, and email address for confirmation.
You may also change your address in person or by mail using this form. The address is Ohio Department of Public Safety – Deputy Registrar Services, PO Box 16520, Columbus, OH 43216-6520. You’ll need to provide proof of Ohio residency and your old and new address and show your old driver’s license if you make the change in a person. If you are moving within the state, you’ll not receive a new driver’s license or registration.
How Long Do I Have to Complete This?
Ohio has no time limit on changes of address for moves within the state.
How Do I Change My Address If I Am Moving To Ohio from Another State?
If you are moving to Ohio from another state, you will need to obtain an Ohio driver’s license. A driver’s test is not required as long as you have a current or recently expired driver’s license from another state, but a vision test is. The license fee is $24.50.
The documents you must bring vary depending upon whether you want a RealID (compliant ID) or not. For either, you must prove your name, date of birth, social security number, legal presence in the U.S., and street address. If you have a birth certificate or valid U.S. passport, you can use that to prove your name, date of birth, and legal presence. A Social Security card, Medicare card, W-2, or 1099 are among documents that can prove a Social Security number. W-2s also are among documents that can prove street addresses.
For a compliant ID, you’ll need two documents to prove your Ohio address and proof of name change if you have a different name than that listed on your birth certificate or passport.
To change your vehicle registration, you’ll need to prove that you have insurance in Ohio. Fees depend upon the type of vehicle. To obtain a registration, bring the following:
- Your vehicle’s original title. If more than one person owns the vehicle and only one is present, you’ll need to provide signed copies of a power of attorney agreement.
- Your vehicle loan contract, if applicable.
- Your current out-of-state driver’s license
- Proof of your full legal name
- Proof of Ohio residency
- Proof of legal residency in the U.S.
- Your social security card
How Long Do I Have to Complete This?
You must complete the change of address within 30 days of your move.
How Do I Change My Address If I Am Moving From Ohio?
Ohio does not require that you notify the state about your driver’s license since Ohio will cancel your license once you obtain one in your new state of residence. You also don’t need to change your registration or return license plates.
Where Do I Call With Questions?
The number for the Ohio BMV is 1-(844) 644-6268.