How to Complete a DMV Change of Address in North Carolina

North Carolina residents may change their address through the NCDMV website. Those moving to North Carolina from out of state need to visit an NCDMV office.
Written by Nathan Porceng
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
background
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.
We understand 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. 
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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
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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!
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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.
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FAQs

Yes—but only if you’re already a North Carolina resident. If you’re moving from outside the state, you must change your address in person at an NCDMV office.
Yes. If you move to North Carolina and plan on driving in the state, you must obtain a North Carolina license and update your vehicle’s registration within 60 days of moving. To do so, you must visit an NCDMV office in person.
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