Moving to a New State? Here's How to Transfer or Get Your Driver's License

Do You Need a New Driver's License?

In most states, yes. Once you become a resident of a new state, you are legally required to obtain a driver's license issued by that state. The deadline varies, but it typically ranges from 30 to 90 days after establishing residency.

Residency is usually defined by actions like:

• • Signing a lease or buying a home
• • Registering to vote
• • Starting a job
• • Enrolling children in school

Driving with an out-of-state license beyond the allowed period can lead to fines or penalties. For official state-by-state residency requirements, check the USA.gov motor vehicle services page.

Transferring an Existing Out-of-State License

If you already hold a valid U.S. driver's license, most states allow a relatively simple transfer process.

What You'll Usually Need:

• • Your current out-of-state driver's license
• • Proof of identity (passport or birth certificate)
• • Proof of Social Security number
• • Two proofs of residency (utility bill, lease, bank statement)
• • DMV application form
• • Transfer fee

In many cases, no written or road test is required if your license is valid and not expired. However, some states may require:

• • A vision test
• • A knowledge test (especially if your license is expired or from a different country)

Not sure what documents you need? Use our Permit Documentation Tool to get a personalized checklist for your state.

What If Your License Is Expired?

If your previous license is expired, the process becomes stricter. Depending on how long it has been expired, you may be required to:

• • Take the written permit test
• • Complete a road skills test
• • Apply as if you were a new driver

This is where preparation matters—many applicants fail simply because they underestimate the written test. Check out our guide on why smart people fail the DMV test to avoid common pitfalls.

Moving Without a License or as a First-Time Driver

If you're moving states and never had a driver's license, you'll need to apply as a first-time driver in your new state.

This usually involves:

Each state's rules differ, so checking your state DMV website is essential.

International License Holders

If you're moving from another country, your foreign license may not be transferable. Most states require international drivers to:

• • Pass the written knowledge test
• • Pass a road test
• • Provide valid immigration documents

Some states recognize licenses from specific countries, but this is the exception—not the rule. The USCIS website has helpful information for immigrants navigating U.S. requirements.

REAL ID Considerations

When transferring your license, you may be offered a REAL ID–compliant license, which is required for domestic flights and federal buildings starting in 2025.

To get a REAL ID, you'll need additional documentation, so make sure to check whether it's worth doing during your license transfer instead of later. Learn more on the Department of Homeland Security REAL ID page.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• • Waiting past the state deadline to apply
• • Arriving at the DMV without required documents
• • Assuming rules are the same as your previous state
• • Underestimating the written test
• • Not booking a DMV appointment in advance

Avoid a wasted trip—check out our guide on what to expect at your first DMV visit.