There are many different tasks and responsibilities you need to handle whenever you move. One of the most important things to do is to change your address. Whether you’re just moving down the block or relocating from a different part of the country, you’ll want to keep your address updated with the appropriate agencies and companies to ensure you have the correct data and you receive important correspondence.
However, it’s easy to forget or be confused by the process. Luckily, submitting a change of address in Ohio is fairly straightforward and shouldn’t take more than an afternoon if you complete the process correctly.
You can change your address in Ohio online, by mail, or in person. Visit the OH BMV website, complete a form, and provide your driver’s license or ID number. Alternatively, you can mail the form to the Ohio Department of Public Safety or visit a local Deputy Registrar’s Office with proof of your new address. Your new card will arrive within ten business days.
To help make the process easier, here is a step-by-step look at how to change your address in Ohio.
How to Change Your Address in Ohio with the BMV
The first step is to change your address with the BMV. Instead of the DMV, Ohio has a Bureau of Motor Vehicles or BMV, which is responsible for registering motor vehicles and issuing license plates and driver’s licenses. So the first thing you’ll want to do is change your address in Ohio with the BMV. The Ohio DMV change of address process may be different depending on whether you’re moving from within Ohio or from a different state.
How to Change Your Address on an Ohio Driver’s Licence When Moving from a Different State
If you’re coming from a different state, you’ll need to register with the BMV and get a new Ohio driver’s license. As long as your old license is still valid, you won’t be required to take another driving test when you change your drivers license address in Ohio. However, you will need to submit it to reflect your new residence.
Unfortunately, you can’t apply for a new license online or by phone, so you’ll have to visit a BMV location in person.
Keep in mind that when you submit a change of address, Ohio considers you a resident as soon as you accept a job, buy a home, or enroll your kids in school. Once you are a resident, you’ll need to update your address as soon as possible if you wish to drive in the state.
When changing an address on your license in Ohio, you’ll need to bring:
- Evidence of your legal name and date of birth
- A form of identification confirming your legal presence in the US (such as a birth certificate or passport)
- A social security card or some other proof of a social security number
- Proof of residency in Ohio (such as a utility bill, pay stub, bank statement, etc.)
Is there a fee to get a new driver’s license in Ohio?
Yes, there is a fee when you apply for a new driver’s license in Ohio. The fee for an Ohio driver’s license ranges from about $20 to $50, depending on the age of the driver and the length of the term. For adults over 21 years old, the fee is $24.50 for four years and $48.00 for eight years.
How to Change Your Address on an Ohio Driver’s Licence When Moving Within Ohio
If you’re moving from a different location within the state, submitting an Ohio change of address is relatively simple. You should do so within ten days of moving.
For those moving in the state, you can change your Ohio driver’s license address online by visiting this link.
To submit your Ohio driver’s license change of address online, you’ll need to:
- Create or log in to your account
- Fill out the application with your information
- Upload your current driver’s license or ID
- Upload a photograph
- Upload one item from the BMV’s list of documents required to verify your information
Once your application is approved, your new license will be sent to your mailing address.
Alternatively, you can also visit a BMV location, fill out the change of address on the license form for Ohio, and submit the same documents in person. You can also print the form at home and mail it to the Ohio Department of Public Safety – Deputy Registrar Services, PO Box 16520, Columbus, OH 43216-6520.
What Is the Ohio Driver’s License Change of Address Cost?
The typical cost to replace a driver’s license in Ohio is $24.50.
Updating your Vehicle Registration in Ohio
In addition to submitting a driver’s license change of address in Ohio, you’ll also want to update your vehicle registration. For those coming from a different state, you’ll need to visit the BMV in person to update your vehicle registration. You have 30 days to update the registration after establishing residency in Ohio.
The following documents are required to
- Your original title
- Your loan contract (if the car is financed)
- Your current driver’s license
- Your social security card
- Proof of your legal name, Ohio residency, and legal residency in the US
If you are relocating from within Ohio, you can update your vehicle registration online. You will also need your current Ohio driver’s license number, your date of birth, proof of Ohio residency, and proof of residency at your new address. You can find a list of the fees associated with updating your vehicle registration on the Ohio BMV website.
How to Change Your Address in Ohio with the Post Office
You may also want to know how to change your address in Ohio with the post office. You can do so by submitting a Ohio change of address form with the US postal service. You have a few options for updating your address with USPS:
- Fill out the form online
- Call 1-800-ASK-USPS
- Visit your local post office and ask for Form 3575
When updating your address in person, you’ll need to verify your identity or provide an acceptable form of photo ID. You will also be charged a fee of $1.10 to verify your identity.
Once the USPS approves your Ohio change of address, they’ll begin forwarding your mail to your new address. Note that it can take up to 10 days for the new mail to be forwarded to the new address, and this only applies to mail being transported by USPS.
How to Change Your Address in Ohio with Tax Agencies
You might also want to know how to change your address in Ohio with the appropriate tax agencies. You’ll need to update your address with both the IRS and the state of Ohio.
How to Submit an IRS Change of Address
By Mail
You can update your address with the IRS by printing out Form 8822: Change of Address. Once complete, you can mail the form to the Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service Ogden, UT 84201-0023.
In Writing
If you’d prefer, you can also write a letter to the IRS that includes your full legal name, old and new address, social security number, and your signature. You can mail the letter to the same address you would send the form.
By Phone
You can also call the IRS at 800-829-1040, Monday through Friday, and provide them with your full legal name, old and new address, and social security number. The operator will need to verify your identity at the beginning of the call, so make sure to have:
- Your social security number and birth date
- Filing status
- Last year’s tax return
- Any other documents relevant to the call
Also, if you change your address prior to filing your tax return, the IRS will update it in their records automatically when you file.
How to Submit an Ohio Change of Address with Department of Taxation
You can change your address with the Ohio Department of Taxation by logging into or creating an OH|ID account in their official database. Once you’re logged in, select “Additional Services” and scroll down to Names and Address. There, you’ll find a link to update your information. You can also use this e-book as a guide. You may also want to check with the local county treasurer or other authority in the location where you live to find out their standard policies.
Other Places You May Need to Change Your Address in Ohio
In addition to the major government bureaus and tax agencies, you’ll also want to keep your information up-to-date with various other departments and businesses to avoid headaches. Here are a few additional places to consider when submitting an Ohio change of address.
Utility Companies
You’ll want to keep your address and service up to date with any utility companies. Suppose you already have an account with a utility provider in Ohio. In that case, they will typically have instructions on their website about how to update your address and transfer service, or you can contact their customer service line. If you’re new to the state, the Ohio Public Utilities Commission has resources on its website regarding how to choose the right utility provider.
Voter Registration
You can register to vote in Ohio or update your current registration with the Secretary of State. You can update your information online through this link or by printing this form and mailing it to your country’s board of elections.
You can also obtain a voter registration form at any of the following locations:
- The office of the Secretary of State
- The office of any county board of elections
- The office of the registrar of the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
- A public library, high school, or vocational school
- The country treasurer’s office
- The office of certain designated state agencies
Social Security
If you’re already receiving Social Security benefits, you’ll need to update your mailing address online. You can do so by creating an account or signing into your existing account and updating your information under the My Profile tab. Depending on what type of benefits you’re receiving, you may need to call them directly at 1 800-772-1213. Customer service is usually available Monday through Friday from 8 am to 7 pm.
Passport
Luckily, you don’t need to update your passport with your new address if you already have one. However, if you happen to move while your application is processing, you can contact the US Department of State at 1-877-487-2778 or 1-888-874-7793 to tell them where to forward your new passport.
Banks and Financial Institutions
You should also keep your information up to date with any banks or financial institutions. You can typically do this by visiting a local branch, updating your information online, or through a mobile app.
Ohio Change of Address FAQ
What Counts as Proof of Residency in Ohio?
The Ohio BMV recognizes official documents such as a birth certificate, tax return, bank statement, or mortgage account statement as valid proof of residency. However, the official state website has a full list of acceptable documents.
How Much Does It Cost to Change Your Address in Ohio?
The exact cost to change your address in Ohio will depend on a range of factors but you should expect to pay about $25 to $50 on fees such as updating your license, vehicle registration, and Ohio change of address with the post office.
Do You Need to Change Your Drivers License Address in Ohio?
Yes, you are required to notify the BMV of your Ohio license address change within 10 days of moving.
How Do I Check My License Status in Ohio?
Visit the Ohio BMV website to check your driving record and renewal status.
Making a move to Ohio? The dedicated Ohio movers at Bell Moving and Storage can make the relocation process easy and affordable. Call (614) 503-0035 today for a free quote.
