Vehicle Updates

This section outlines the three major steps you’ll need to complete when updating your vehicle information after moving to a new state: 1.Purchasing auto insurance in your new state; 2. Applying for a new driver’s license; and 3. Registering your vehicle and obtaining new license plates.

Completing these steps is essential, because failing to update your vehicle insurance, driver’s license, and registration can lead to heavy fines depending on your new state’s laws.

⭐TL:DR

1. Purchase New Auto Insurance

2. Update Your Driver's License

3. Register Your Vehicle and Get New Plates

Approx. Reading Time: 4 min

⭐TL:DR

This phase explains the three required steps for updating your vehicle information after moving to a new state: purchasing auto insurance that is valid in your new state, applying for a new driver’s license in person at the DMV, and registering your vehicle to obtain new license plates. You’ll learn how to compare insurance quotes, prepare the documents you need, and switch policies without gaps in coverage. The section also walks you through what to expect at the DMV, what paperwork to bring, and how to complete both your driver’s license and vehicle registration applications. Completing these steps promptly helps you avoid fines and ensures you meet your new state’s legal requirements.

1. Purchase New Auto Insurance

The first step in updating your vehicle information is securing auto insurance that is valid in your new state. Depending on your situation, one of the following may apply:

1. Your current insurer operates in your new state, and you can keep the same company.

2. Your current insurer operates in your new state, but you want to switch to a more affordable or better-fit policy.

3. Your current insurer does not operate in your new state, and you must switch to a new provider.

How to purchase a new auto insurance policy in a new state

1. Shop around and request multiple quotes to compare rates.

2. Choose the insurance company that best fits your needs.

3. Provide all required information, such as:

Driver’s license details
Social Security number
Vehicle identification number (VIN)
Loan or lease information
Other vehicle and personal details

4. Request that your new policy starts the next day.

5. Make the initial payment to begin coverage.

6. Contact your old insurer and request that today be your final day of coverage, so the policies switch over seamlessly.

Important things to remember

Never cancel your old policy before activating the new one, since driving without insurance is illegal.
Nearly all states require proof of insurance before you can register your vehicle.
Ask whether you qualify for a prorated refund, which returns money you’ve already paid for coverage you will no longer use.
Some insurance companies have cancellation fees. Check this before ending your old policy.

2. Update Your Driver's License

Once you have insurance, the next step is obtaining a new driver’s license issued by your new state. Driver’s licenses cannot be updated online, you must visit a DMV office in person.

Before your visit

To locate the correct DMV page, visit usa.gov, select your new state, and review the application requirements. Always check your state’s DMV website and call ahead to confirm what documents you need.

Common documents you may need

Your driver’s license from your previous state
An additional form of identification (passport, birth certificate, etc.)
Proof of residency in your new state (lease agreement, utility bill, mortgage statement, etc.)