Thinking about moving to Washington? Whether you’re relocating to the beautiful city of Tacoma, heading to the mountains, or settling in Seattle’s suburbs, one of the most important things to check off your to-do list is updating your address with the state. Completing a change of address in WA is a necessary step to make sure your mail, vehicle registration, and state records stay current.
The process of a change of address in Washington State is simpler than you might think. You can even update your address online, saving you a trip to the licensing office.
If you’re moving within Washington, you’ll also need to coordinate your relocation timeline with address updates, utility transfers, vehicle records, and other state requirements. From updating your driver’s license to submitting an address request for your car title and registration, this guide will walk you through exactly what to do when making a move in (or to) the Evergreen State.
Change of Address WA DMV
No matter where you’re moving from, you’ll need to complete a change of address in Washington State through the Washington DMV, also known as the Washington State Department of Licensing. Here’s what you need to know about completing a change of address in WA for both current and non-Washington residents.
Change of Address Washington State | Current Washington Residents
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If you’re a first time homebuyer settling into your new place or recently tied the knot and updated your marriage license, don’t forget one of the most important tasks on your checklist: filing a change of address in WA. Washington requires all current residents to notify the Department of Licensing (DOL) of an address change within 10 days of moving. This includes changes to your ID or Enhanced IT card.
The easiest way to submit your change of address in Washington State is by using the Washington Change of Address System. This convenient online service lets you update your address information quickly; no need to visit a local post office or licensing office in person.
If you’re more traditional or simply like the feel of paper forms, you can also complete an address form and mail it to:
Driver Records
Department of Licensing
PO Box 9030
Olympia, WA 98507
When notifying the DMV, be sure to have the following ready:
- Your current Washington driver’s license or ID
- The last four digits of your Social Security number
- A completed address form
When completing your change of address in WA, there’s no cost to update your address information. However, if you want a new physical card showing your updated address, there’s a $20 replacement fee.
Change of Address Washington State | Non-Washington Residents
Buying a house in Tacoma or relocating for work or school? If you’ve recently moved to Washington from another part of the country, it’s time to take care of your change of address in WA. Washington law requires new residents to obtain a state driver’s license within 30 days of establishing residency, and you’ll need that license before you can register a vehicle.
Who Is Considered a Washington Resident?
You’re officially a Washington resident if you meet any of the following:
- You have a Washington mailing address
- You’re registered to vote in Washington
- You receive state benefits
- You pay in-state tuition
- You’ve received a WA state license (like a fishing or hunting license) at resident rates
If this sounds like you, you’ll need to act quickly to get your new license and submit your change of address in WA.
What You’ll Need
To apply for a new Washington license, you’ll need to visit the Washington Department of Licensing in person. Changing your address online is not available for this process, but you can pre-apply online to speed things up.
Make sure you bring the following to your appointment:
- Your current out-of-state license
- Proof of identity (such as a passport, ID Card, divorce decree, or marriage certificate)
- Your Social Security number
- Proof of residency (matching your new mailing address)
- A completed address form
- An appointment
- A $35 application fee
Luckily, no driving test is required if you already hold a valid license from another state. However, you will need to pass a vision exam and provide accurate address information as a part of your application for your change of address in WA.
When applying, you’ll also choose between a standard driver license or an Enhanced Driver License (EDL). An EDL complies with REAL ID federal requirements and allows you to re-enter the U.S. by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean. The EDL has additional documentation requirements, so check the DOL’s website to learn more before your visit.
Change of Address WA for Vehicle Registration
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Whether you’re a current resident or moving to Washington from out of state, updating your vehicle registration is a must, and you’ll want to do it quickly to stay compliant with state law. Here’s everything you need to know about handling a change of address in WA related to your vehicle.
Current Washington Residents
Already have a Washington driver’s license and just moved to a new address within the state? You’ll still want to update your vehicle registration.
The easiest option is to update your address online by using Washington’s Change of Address System. You can also do it in person by visiting your local Washington Department of Licensing office.
To complete your vehicle registration change of address, you’ll want to make sure you have both your license plate number and your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on hand. There’s no fee to simply update your vehicle registration, but if you want a new registration document with your new address printed, you’ll need to pay a fee of $5.
New Washington Residents
If you’ve just become a Washington resident (and have your new Washington driver’s license), here’s how to get your vehicle squared away.
Unfortunately, you can’t do this change of address online. You’ll need to visit the Washington Department of Licensing in person to complete this change of address in WA. You’ll also need to bring the following documents with you:
- Your Vehicle Certificate of Ownership Application
- Your out-of-state vehicle title
- Your new Washington driver’s license
- Proof of liability insurance
As far as fees go, the amount will vary based on vehicle weight, your location, and the type of license plates you choose. For exact fees, contact your local vehicle licensing office or call the Washington DOL at (360) 902-3770.
You may also need an emissions test if you live in a certain county. Check the Washington Emissions testing page for details on whether this applies to your vehicle.
Washington Drivers License Address Change
Once you’ve completed your change of address in WA and vehicle registration, the final step is making sure your Washington driver’s license reflects your new address. Here’s what you need to know about getting a new driver’s license with your updated info.
Current Washington Residents
If you’ve recently moved within the state, you can easily request a replacement Washington driver’s license with your new address through your License eXpress account. It will feature your current driver’s license photo and will be mailed to you.
Want a new photo? You’ll need to go in person to a Washington State Department of Licensing office and have it taken for an additional fee. Be ready for potential wait times unless you book an appointment. If you’d rather skip the hassle, you can wait to get a new card until your next license renewal, but remember, your old license won’t serve as proof of your new address.
New Washington Residents
If you’re moving from out of state, you’re required to obtain a Washington driver’s license within 30 days of your move. This process can’t be completed online, and you’ll need to make an appointment and go in person to a DOL office.
Make sure you bring the following with you:
- Proof of identity, including your out-of-state license
- Payment for the driver licensing fee
- Any additional documents required for an Enhanced Driver License (EDL) or name change
At the licensing office, you’ll:
- Provide your Social Security number
- Decide whether to register to vote or become an organ donor (optional)
- Pay fees (cash, check, or card)
- Pass any required driver tests
Before you leave, they’ll punch a hole in your out-of-state license and return it to you. You’ll receive a temporary license valid for 45 days, though it might not be accepted as an official ID. You can expect your new driver’s license to arrive by mail within 7 to 10 days.
Washington State USPS Change of Address
Even after updating your driver’s license and vehicle registration, there’s another crucial step to complete your change of address in WA, updating your mailing address with the United States Postal Service (USPS). This ensures your mail gets forwarded to your new address, giving you time to notify everyone from your bank to your streaming services.
You have two main options for completing your change of address in Washington State: online or in person at your local post office. The easiest way is through the official USPS website, where you’ll follow the prompts, enter your new address, and pay a $1.10 fee to verify your identity via credit card.
If you prefer the in-person route for your change of address in WA, you can visit your local post office to complete your change of address in Washington State. Bring identification, such as a driver’s license, birth certificate, or other government-issued ID, as well as your address form. Ask for a free Mover’s Guide packet, which contains PS Form 3575. Fill out the form, return it along with your photo ID, and the USPS will process your request free of charge.
Once your change of address in WA is confirmed, USPS will forward your mail to your new address for up to 12 months. However, keep in mind that this forwarding only applies to standard mail, and USPS will not forward packages.
Tax Agencies Change of Address in Washington State | IRS Change of Address
When completing a change of address in WA, it’s important to update your information not just with the DMV and USPS, but also with tax agencies like the IRS. Failing to update your address can delay important documents such as tax refunds or communication about your filings.
To update your address with the IRS, you can complete Form 8822, “Change of Address,” and mail it to the appropriate IRS office listed on the form. You can also write your new address directly on your tax return when you file it for the year, which will automatically update your record. If you prefer, you can also call the IRS or notify them in writing.
While the IRS is a federal agency, it’s also a good idea to update your address with an applicable state tax agency. In Washington, residents are not subject to a state income tax, but if you own a business or need to deal with other state financial matters, you should notify the Washington Department of Revenue of your Washington change of address as well.
Washington State Voter Registration Address Change
When you complete a change of address in WA, don’t forget to update your voter registration as well. A voter registration change of address is required to ensure you receive the correct ballot and are registered to vote in your current district.
Washington makes it easy to handle your voter change of address in Washington State. You can update your voter registration online through the Washington Secretary of State’s website, by mail, or in person at your county elections office. If you’re completing a change of address in WA at the same time as renewing your driver’s license or ID, the Department of Licensing will automatically forward your updated information to the voter registration system.
Be sure to complete your change of address in WA at least 8 days before an election to be eligible to vote.
Change of Address WA for Utilities
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Once you’ve completed your change of address in WA, you may also need to transfer utilities to your new home. If you’re moving to the state for the first time, you’ll need to start from scratch, signing up for each individual utility service. If you’re completing a change of address in WA from another Washington city, you may be using the same utility provider and can therefore just transfer service. A few of the most common utility providers in Washington include:
Other Ways to Complete Your Washington State Change of Address
Make sure you also consider these things when completing your change of address in WA.
- Schedule junk removal before you move to clear unwanted furniture, household items, and other belongings you do not want transported to the new property. Get your subscriptions forwarded to your new home
- Update your auto, homeowners, and renters insurance along with your change of address in WA
- Make sure your bank and credit card companies have your new address
- If you receive Social Security benefits, make sure your address is updated with the company
All Ready Moving & Storage Is Here to Help With Your Move
A change of address in Washington State is an essential part of your move. Once you’ve handled your change of address in WA, it’s time to start your life in your new city! While we can’t help you change your address, the Washington State movers at All Ready Moving are ready to make your moving day smooth and stress-free.
If you have a truck or container arranged but need assistance with the heavy lifting, loading help for moving day can support you with loading, unloading, and furniture placement.
To get started with a free quote, give our team a call at (360) 507-2447.
