Do You Need to Update Your ID Address When Moving to a New Rental?

When renters move to a new apartment, one of the common questions is whether they must update the address on their state ID or driver’s license. In most states, the answer is yes—residents are required to update their address with the DMV within a specific time frame after relocating. For example, California requires residents to update their address within 10 days, while Texas allows up to 30 days to complete the change.

Updating your ID ensures that state records remain accurate, which can be important for receiving mail from government agencies, voting, or handling legal and financial matters. Many states allow online updates, making the process quick and simple. The exact deadline varies by state: New York typically requires the update within 10 days, and in Florida the timeframe is 30 days.

For renters, this requirement does not affect your lease and has no connection to your landlord’s policies. Landlords may ask for a copy of your updated ID for their records, but they cannot deny your tenancy or enforce penalties for not updating your state ID address. Still, keeping your documents aligned with your actual residence can prevent issues later—especially with vehicle registration, insurance, or official correspondence. For instance, in counties like Clark County, NV or Maricopa County, AZ, accurate DMV records often play a role in processing local notices or mail.

In short, while updating your ID address is generally required by state law, it’s an administrative step rather than a housing rule, and complying with it helps keep your state records accurate and you fully protected.