How To Do a Michigan DMV Change of Address

If you’re planning on moving to, from, or within the state of Michigan then you’re going to want to make sure that you know exactly what’s expected of you in terms of DMV paperwork. Like all states, you’ll be required to get your Michigan DMV change of address forms in order before you can truly settle in as a resident—including your address on your driver’s license and an update to your vehicle’s registration documents, if applicable.

It’s good practice to take care of all of your paperwork as early as possible, especially if you’re going to be driving in the state or want to start applying for jobs. And since Michigan requires that you file your change of address paperwork immediately upon establishing residency in the state, there really isn’t a whole lot of time to waste.

Not sure where you should start? That’s where we come in. We’ve put together all of the information that you’ll need to know to complete your Michigan DMV change of address and vehicle registration forms, so read through the information below and then make your way to your nearest Michigan Department of State office to get started.

If You’re Moving to Michigan from Another State

Will you need to get a new driver’s license if you’re moving to Michigan from another state?

Yes, unless you are a student who will not be permanently moving to the state or an active member of the U.S. military (or a dependent of either).

How do you get a new driver’s license in Michigan?

To get a Michigan driver’s license as a formerly out-of-state resident you’ll have to go to a Department of State office in person, since unfortunately you can’t do a Michigan DMV change of address online or over the phone as a new resident. Search by location to find your nearest MI DMV.

Per the rules in most states, expect that a Michigan driver’s license for a new resident to the state is only available to those who do not have any outstanding suspensions, revocations, or cancellations on their out of state driver’s license and who have not been previously deemed unfit or unsafe to drive by the Michigan DMV or an outside court.

You will need to bring along the following documentation when you visit a Michigan Department of State office:

    • Proof of identity (examples: birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, certificate of citizenship)
    • Two proofs of current Michigan residency (examples: utility bill, credit card statement, voter registration card, lease or rental agreement)
    • Proof of social security (examples: social security card or W-2 tax form)
    • Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence, if not a U.S. citizen (examples: valid U.S. passport or certificate of citizenship)

    Documents must be original, and no photocopies will be accepted.

    Note that if your name on your primary proof of identity does not match the name on your current proof of identity then you will also have to bring along proof of a legal name change, such as your marriage license, divorce decree, or a court order for a legal name change.

    Find out more about required documents here.

    Does a Michigan DMV change of address require a driving test?

    No, so long as you have held a valid driver’s license in the last four years. However, you will be required to take a vision test.

    Is there a fee?

    Yes. The cost for a new non-commercial driver’s license in Michigan is $25. See the license fees page for more information.

    How long do you have to get a Michigan driver’s license or ID card?

    Michigan requires that you complete your Michigan DMV change of address as soon as possible after establishing residency in the state.

    So how do you know if you’re officially a resident of Michigan? Head to a MI Department of State office if you plan to:

      • Live in Michigan for at least 6 months out of the year
      • Register to vote in Michigan
      • Work in Michigan
      • Run a business out of Michigan
      • Send your children to school in Michigan

      Do you need to register your out-of-state vehicle?

      How long do you have to update your vehicle’s registration?

      Michigan requires that you register your out-of-state vehicle immediately upon establishing yourself as a resident, so make sure that this to-do is at the top of your list.

      How do you update your vehicle’s registration as a new resident of Michigan?

      To register your vehicle as a new resident of Michigan, you’ll need to visit a Michigan Department of State office in person. When you go, bring along the following documents:

        • Proof of identity
        • Proof of Michigan no-fault auto insurance
        • Your vehicle’s current out-of-state title

        If your title is being held by lien holder or leasing company, then you can bring in your out-of-state registration card in lieu of your title.

        Note that all owners of the vehicle must be present. If one or more owners cannot appear, you’ll need to have them complete and sign an Appointment of Agent that allows someone else to register the vehicle in Michigan on their behalf.

        What is the registration fee?

        Fees vary. Visit the registration fees page to figure out what you’ll owe.

        If You’re Moving Within Michigan

        Michigan requires that you update your driver’s license as soon as possible with your new address when you’re moving within the state. (And no, changing your address with the post office doesn’t cut it.)

        How do you do a Michigan change of address?

        You have a couple of options for doing a Michigan DMV change of address:

        1. Use the online portal. Head here to complete your Michigan DMV change of address through the state’s online Change of Address system. You’ll need your Michigan driver license number handy, as well as the last four digits of your social security number, your date of birth, and your zip code.

        2. Fill out a change of address form and drop it off by mail. Complete a Michigan Change of Address/Voter Registration form and mail it to Michigan Department of State, PO Box 30764, Lansing, MI 48918.

        3. Change your address in person. Head to a Michigan Department of State office to fill out a Change of Address form in person. Just make sure to bring your driver’s license along with you.

        Will Michigan issue you a new driver’s license if you’re moving within the state?

        No, not unless you want one. But you will get a sticker with your new address to place on the back of your current driver’s license.

        How much does a Michigan change of address cost?

        A Michigan DMV change of address is free, but if you want a duplicate license with your new address it will cost you $9 (and you’ll have to go to a Department of State office to get it).

        Do you need to update your address on your vehicle registration?

        How long do you have to update your vehicle registration with your new address?

        Just like with your driver’s license, you’ll have to update your address on your vehicle registration immediately upon moving. Fortunately, it’ll update simultaneously when you update your driver’s license.

        If You’re Moving From Michigan to Another State

        Do you need to notify the state of Michigan if you’re moving to another state without a registered car?

        No. Once you obtain your license in your new state of residence Michigan will automatically cancel your MI driver’s license, so there is nothing extra for you to do on your part.

        Do you need to notify the state of Michigan if you’re moving to another state with your registered vehicle?

        Do you need to return your Michigan license plates?

        Nope, you can hold on to them.

        Have any questions?

        If you have any questions about changing your address on your driver’s license and/or vehicle’s registration when moving to, from, or within the state of Michigan, contact the Michigan Secretary of State at (888) 767-6424.

        You can also send an online message here.

        If you are going to be reaching out, you are encouraged to have your driver’s license number and license plate number (if applicable) ready.

        Need to hire movers for your move to, from, or within the state of Michigan?

        We can help you out with that! Use Moving.com to quickly and easily search for reputable interstate movers in your area. Because moving out of state can be costly, we recommend reaching out to at least three different interstate moving companies to get quotes so that you can ensure you are getting the best price possible. Use our moving cost calculator to get an estimate on how much your Michigan move will cost, and happy moving.