by Jim Thompson |
Last Updated: December 3, 2023 Been transferred? Experienced a life changing event? Or were you just ready for a change of scenery?
There are many reasons why someone might pick up roots and move to a new state. But unless your goal is to completely escape civilization, you’re probably going to want to drive when you get there.
Transferring your license to a new state doesn’t have to be an ordeal. In general, the steps required follow this pattern:
- Surrender your current out of state license
- Provide documentation of your identity
- Provide proof of your residence in your new state
- Pass any required tests
- Pay a license transfer fee
You can find state specific information at the bottom of this article.
As long as you hold a valid drivers license from your old home state, you should have no trouble transferring your license over to your new home state. As with anything, there will be hoops to jump through but they aren’t very high, and none of them are on fire. Besides the requirements listed above, there may also be a vision test, so don’t forget your glasses.
There’s also a good chance that you will have to take the written license test for your new state. This only makes sense as some rules of the road may be different there, and the new state wants to be sure that you know them. This means reading through the state’s driving manual to make sure you know what’s the same and what is different. After all, your new state doesn’t want you getting tickets any more than you do.
What if Your License is Expired?
If you have an expired license, you won’t be able to transfer your license to the new state. Instead, you will have to go through the whole licensing process again. It may save you a step or two to renew your current state license before going through the transfer process. This extra effort may well be worth it, even if it does mean a trip back to your old state again and some time at the DMV.
We have listed the requirements to transfer your license to any state in the Union below. We apologize in advance for those of you moving to Wisconsin, West Virginia, and Wyoming, as you have a LOT of scrolling to do!
Don’t Forget These, Either
Besides transferring your license, you will also need to update the registration and title of your automobile. In many states, this can be done at the same time that you are transferring your license. If you volunteered to be an organ or tissue donor in your home state, this would also be a great time to choose this option again in your new one. If you weren’t a registered donor before, this would be a great time to consider it. Many DMV offices also offer new residents the convenience of updating their voter registration, another task you will certainly want to mark off your to-do list after your move.
BTW, if a new teen driver is moving with you…
Transferring Your License to Any State
Find Information for Your New State
Alabama
Transferring your out-of-state license to Alabama is easy, and it will all begin at your local Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Two proofs of identity
- Two proofs of Alabama residence, and (if you’re younger than 19)
- Proof of school enrollment or graduation
The ALEA website provides a list of acceptable identity and residence documents.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your current license
By the way, when I say money, I mean money. The Alea office doesn’t take checks. They will take your credit card but, since they will charge you a 4% processing fee, you may want to drop by the ATM on your way.
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local ALEA office. Alabama only gives you 30 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Alabama.
Alaska
Transferring your out-of-state license to Alaska is easy, and it will all begin at your local Alaska DMV office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Proof of legal name, date of birth, current residence address, and social security number
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The AK DMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residence documents.
What they’ll take from you:
- Your current license
You will also be required to take the Alaska written driving knowledge test. Passing the exam shouldn’t be too tough if you’ve been driving for a while; after all, a stop sign is a stop sign no matter where you are. But you might want to take a peek at the Alaska driver manual just in case.
Once you settled in, you don’t necessarily have to rush down to the DMV, but you will still have only 90 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Alaska.
Arizona
Transferring your out-of-state license to Arizona is easy, and it will all begin at your local Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division (ADOT MVD) office or a state-authorized third-party service provider.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Proof of a Social Security number
- One additional proof of identity
- Two proofs of Arizona residence
- Form of payment for the license fee
The ADOT MVD website provides a list of acceptable identity and residence documents.
Unless the license from your current state is expired, you won’t be required to take the written knowledge test. However, you may be required to take a vision test.
Once you get settled in, you’ll want to hustle down to your local ADOT office. Arizona expects you to get your license Transferred immediately after arrival. While you probably won’t get cited for it, you are technically out of compliance if you have driven in Arizona for even one day with a license from another state. You can walk in for your appointment or visit AZMVDNow.gov to schedule online.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Arizona.
Arkansas
Transferring your out-of-state license to Arkansas is easy, and it will all begin at your local Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration Driver Control office.
Be prepared to surrender your current license and to take a vision exam. If your current license has been expired more than 31 days, you’ll be required to take the Arkansas written driving exam. If your license has been expired for more than a year, you will also be required to take a driving test.
You can also take care of getting your car registered at this visit. Just make sure to have proof of insurance with you.
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local driver control office. Arkansas only gives you 30 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Arkansas.
California
Transferring your out-of-state license to California is easy, and it will all begin at your local California Department of Motor Vehicles office. You’ll need to make an appointment before you go.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- A completed Driver License or Identification Card Application (form DL 44 – now available online!) for a Class C (non-commercial) driver’s license
- Proof of California residency
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test).
You will be required to take the California written knowledge exam, but you shouldn’t find that too tough. After all, a stop sign is a stop sign no matter where you drive, right? If you want, you could take a quick shot at the CA DMV practice test.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your thumbprint
- Your current license
Once you settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local DMV office. California only gives you 10 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to California.
Colorado
Transferring your out-of-state license to Colorado is easy, and it will all begin at your local Colorado Drivers License office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license or two proofs of identity
- Two proofs of Colorado residence
- Proof of Social Security number
The Colorado Department of Revenue website provides a list of acceptable identity and residence documents.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local Drivers License office. Colorado only gives you 30 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Colorado.
Connecticut
Transferring your out-of-state license to Connecticut is easy, and it will all begin by making an appointment at your local Connecticut DMV office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (expired for less than two years)
- A completed application (Form R-229)
- Two proofs of identity
- Two proofs of Connecticut residence
- Proof of Social Security number
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The Connecticut DMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residence documents.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your current license
Somewhat confusingly, acceptable forms of payment vary by location and, if they do take checks, you’ll need two to pay the separate fees.
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your DMV office. Connecticut only gives you 60 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Connecticut.
Delaware
Transferring your out-of-state license to Delaware is easy, and it will all begin at your local Delaware DMV office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or a certified copy of your driving record)
- Proof of citizenship
- Two proofs of Delaware residence
- Proof of Social Security number
The Delaware DMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residence documents.
The DMV also reserves the right to administer a driving and/or vision test but probably won’t if your current license is in good standing.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your old license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your DMV office. Delaware only gives you 60 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Delaware.
Florida
Transferring your out-of-state license to Florida is easy, and it will all begin at your local Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle office.
Florida makes the process very easy. All you’ll need to do is visit your closest license facility, surrender your license and pay the applicable fees.
In a few circumstances, you may be required to take a written and/or driving test, but it’s rare. You will, however, have to take a vision test.
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your DMV office. Florida only gives you 30 days to get your transfer done. You’ll want to move even faster than that to get new insurance for your vehicle because Florida only gives you 10 days to get that done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Florida.
Georgia
Transferring your out-of-state license to Georgia is easy, and it will all begin at your local Georgia Department of Driver Services office. Before heading out to the office, you should start the online application process.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or a certified copy of your driving record)
- Proof of identity
- Two proofs of Georgia residence
- Proof of Social Security number
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The Georgia DMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residence documents.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your DMV office. Georgia only gives you 30 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Georgia.
Hawaii
Transferring your out-of-state license to Hawaii only requires a little give and take.
What you’ll need to give them:
- A completed license application
- Proof of identity
- Proof of citizenship
- Two proofs of Hawaii residence
- Your original Social Security card
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The Hawaii county website provides a list of acceptable identity and residence documents.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Hawaii.
Idaho
Transferring your out-of-state license to Idaho is easy, and it will all begin at your local county DMV office.
Transferring your out-of-state license to Idaho will require you to pass their Class D written exam. This shouldn’t be too stressful as stop signs in Idaho look like stop signs anywhere else. With a quick look at the Idaho driver manual, you should be good to go.
If you have arrived in Idaho with a license expired more than 25 months, you will also be required to take a road skills test.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license
- Proof of identity
- Two proofs of Idaho residence
- Proof of Social Security number
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
You’ll find a list of acceptable identity and residence documents In the Idaho driver manual.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your DMV office. Idaho only gives you 90 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Idaho.
Illinois
Transferring your out-of-state license to Illinois is easy, and it will all begin at your local Secretary of State office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or a certified copy of your driving record)
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Illinois residency
- Proof of Social Security number
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The Illinois SOS website provides a list of acceptable identity and residence documents.
You will also be required to pass a written driving exam and, in rare cases, a driving test. A quick peek at the Illinois driver manual should be all you’ll need to pass the written test. After all, a stop sign is a stop sign no matter where you drive, right?
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your DMV office. Illinois only gives you 90 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Illinois.
Indiana
Transferring your out-of-state license to Indiana is easy, and it will all begin at your local Indiana BMV office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or a certified copy of your driving record)
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Indiana residency
- Proof of Social Security number
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The Indiana BMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
If your current license is expired when you arrive in Indiana, you will be required to pass a written driving exam. A quick peek at the Indiana driver manual should be all you’ll need to pass the written test. After all, a stop sign is a stop sign no matter where you drive, right? You could also take a shot at the practice exam on the Bureau of Motor Vehicles website.
If your out-of-state license has been expired for three years, you will also be required to pass a driving test.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Indiana.
Iowa
Transferring your out-of-state license to Iowa is easy, and it will all begin at your local Iowa Department of Transportation office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Iowa residency
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The Iowa DOT website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
Transferring your license to Iowa will also require you to pass a written knowledge exam and a driving test. As for the written exam, a quick peek at the Iowa driver manual should be all you’ll need to pass it. After all, a stop sign is a stop sign no matter where you drive, right?
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Iowa.
Kansas
Transferring your out-of-state license to Kansas is easy, and it will all begin at your local Kansas Department of Revenue, Division of Vehicles office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or a certified copy of your driving record)
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Kansas residency
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The Kansas BMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
If your current license is expired (less than a year) when you arrive, you will be required to pass a written driving exam. A quick peek at the Kansas driver manual should be all you’ll need to pass the written test. After all, a stop sign is a stop sign no matter where you drive, right?
If your out-of-state license has been expired for more than one year, you will also be required to pass a driving test.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your DMV office. Kansas only gives you 90 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Kansas.
Kentucky
Transferring your out-of-state license to Kentucky is easy, and it will all begin at your local Circuit Court Clerk’s office or a Driver Licensing Regional Office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license
- Proof of identity (a passport or birth certificate will do)
- Original Social Security card
- Proof of Kentucky residency
For more information regarding acceptable proof, please contact the Circuit Court Clerk’s office in the Kentucky county of residence.
If your current license is expired (less than a year) when you arrive, you will be required to pass a vision test and a written driving exam. A quick peek at the Kentucky driver manual should be all you’ll need to pass the written test. After all, a stop sign is a stop sign no matter where you drive, right?
If your out-of-state license has been expired for more than one year, you will also be required to pass a driving test.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your Circuit Court Clerk or Driver Licensing Regional Office. Kentucky only gives you 30 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Kentucky.
Louisiana
Transferring your out-of-state license to Louisiana is easy, and it will all begin at your local Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles location.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or certified current driving record)
- Proof of identity (a passport or birth certificate will do)
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of Louisiana residency
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The Louisiana OMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
If your current license is expired (less than a year) when you arrive, you will be required to pass a vision test and a written driving exam. A quick peek at the Louisiana driver manual should be all you’ll need to pass the written test. After all, a stop sign is a stop sign no matter where you drive, right?
If your out-of-state license has been expired for more than one year, you will also be required to pass a driving test.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local OMV office. Louisiana only gives you 30 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Louisiana.
Maine
Transferring your out-of-state license to Maine is easy, and it will all begin at your local Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles location.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license
- Proof of legal presence
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of Maine residency
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The Maine OMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
If your current license is expired (less than a year) when you arrive, you will be required to pass a vision test and a written driving exam. A quick peek at the Maine driver manual should be all you’ll need to pass the written test. After all, a stop sign is a stop sign no matter where you drive, right? The site also offers a helpful practice test.
If your out-of-state license has been expired for more than one year, you will also be required to pass a driving test.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Maine.
Maryland
Transferring your out-of-state license to Maryland is easy, and it will all begin at your local Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or certified driving record)
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of Maryland residency
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The Maryland MVA website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
If your current license has been expired for more than a year when you arrive, you will also be required to pass Maryland’s written driving exam. A quick peek at the Maryland driver manual should be all you’ll need to pass the written test. After all, a stop sign is a stop sign no matter where you drive, right?
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local MVA office. Maryland only gives you 60 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Maryland.
Massachusetts
Transferring your out-of-state license to Massachusetts is easy, and it will all begin at your local Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles office. You can start your application online.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or certified driving record)
- Proof of legal presence
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of Massachusetts residency
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The Massachusetts RMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
If your current license has been expired for more than a year when you arrive, you will be required to pass the state’s written and road tests. As far as the written driving exam is concerned, a quick peek at the Massachusetts driver manual should be all you’ll need to pass the written test. After all, a stop sign is a stop sign no matter where you drive, right?
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Massachusetts.
Michigan
Transferring your out-of-state license to Michigan is easy, and it will all begin at your local Michigan Secretary of State office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or certified driving record)
- Proof of legal presence
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of Michigan residency
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Michigan.
Minnesota
Transferring your out-of-state license to Minnesota is easy, and it will all begin at your local Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or certified driving record)
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of Minnesota residency
The Minnesota RMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
Every driver new to Minnesota is required to take the state’s written knowledge test. Not to worry; a quick peek at the Minnesota driver manual should be all you’ll need to pass the written test. After all, a stop sign is a stop sign no matter where you drive, right?
If your current license has been expired for more than a year when you arrive, you will be required to pass the state’s road skills test.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local DVS office. Minnesota only gives you 60 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Minnesota.
Mississippi
Transferring your out-of-state license to Mississippi is easy, and it will all begin at your local Mississippi Department of Public Safety office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- A Certified State issued long form Birth Certificate
- An original social security card, and
- Two proofs of residency. Examples include:
- Lease/Purchase agreement
- Utility Bill (Lights, Water, or Gas)
- A Mississippi Car Tag receipt
- A Bank Statement
Depending on the status of your current license, written and skills tests may be waived.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Mississippi.
Missouri
Transferring your out-of-state license to Missouri is easy, and it will all begin at your local Missouri Department of Revenue office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or certified driving record)
- Proof of Identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of Missouri residency
The Missouri DOR website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
If you arrive in Missouri with a valid, current drivers license (or one that is expired 184 days or less), Missouri skills and written tests will be waived. All applicants are required to pass the Missouri road sign recognition and vision tests.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Missouri.
Montana
Transferring your out-of-state license to Montana is easy, and it will all begin at your local Montana Department of Justice Drivers License Station.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or certified driving record)
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of Montana residency
- Proof of identity
- Proof of lawful presence
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The Montana DOJ website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
Depending on the status of your out-of-state license, you may also be required to take Minnesota’s knowledge and/or driving skills test.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Montana.
Nebraska
Transferring your out-of-state license to Nebraska is easy, and it will all begin at your local Nebraska driver’s licensing location.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or certified driving record)
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of Nebraska residency
- Proof of identity
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The Nebraska DMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
If you arrive in Nebraska with an unexpired license, you may be required to take a driving skills test at the discretion of driver licensing staff. If unable to surrender your out-of-state license, the written and drive tests will be required. If you present an expired driver’s license that is less than one year expired, the driving test may be waived.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local DMV office. Nebraska only gives you 30 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Nebraska.
Nevada
Transferring your out-of-state license to Nevada is easy, and it will all begin at your local Nevada DMV office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or certified driving record)
- Completed drivers license application
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of Nevada residency
- Proof of identity
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The Nevada DMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
If any of the following conditions exist, you will be required to take the Nevada written knowledge test:
- Drivers license or privilege to drive expired or surrendered for more than one year (skills test needed if more than four years)
- Three or more convictions of moving violations in the past four years
- Driver’s license or privilege to drive suspended, revoked, canceled, or otherwise disqualified during the past four years
- A DUI conviction (drug- and/or alcohol-related offense) within the past seven years
- Any license restrictions that must be evaluated to ensure the driver can drive safely (skills test may also be required)
- Applying for a different type or class of license (skills test may also be required)
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Nevada.
New Hampshire
Transferring your out-of-state license to New Hampshire is easy, and it will all begin at your local New Hampshire DMV office. You’ll want to make an appointment.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or certified driving record)
- A completed drivers license application
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of identity
- Proof of New Hampshire residency
The New Hampshire DMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
If your out-of-state license has been lost or stolen, you must provide written verification that you have a valid drivers license from another state. You can obtain your license verification by asking the state where you last held a one to complete a Verification of Out of State License form.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local DVS office. New Hampshire only gives you 60 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to New Hampshire.
New Jersey
Transferring your out-of-state license to New Jersey is easy; it all begins with making an appointment at a New Jersey motor vehicle license center.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or certified driving record)
- Documents to satisfy New Jersey’s “6 Points of Identification“
If you arrive in New Jersey with a current, unexpired license, the state’s written knowledge and driving skills tests will be waived.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to New Jersey.
New Mexico
Transferring your out-of-state license to New Mexico is easy, and it will all begin at your local New Mexico MVD Express office. You can start by making an appointment.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of identity (you can provide either your birth certificate or an unexpired passport)
- Proof of New Mexico residency (you can use a utility bill or rental agreement)
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to New Mexico.
New York
Transferring your out-of-state license to New York is easy, and it will all begin at your local New York DMV office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of New York residency
- Proof of lawful status
- Proof of identity
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
- Alternately, you can bring a completed Eye Test Report
The New York DMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
Your out-of-state license must:
- Have your photograph
- Be valid or expired less than 24 months
- Have been issued at least six months before you apply for a New York license (unless it is a commercial driver license that has been valid for any amount of time)
You cannot exchange your license if it is:
- Suspended or revoked
- Lost or stolen
- A hardship or an “employment only driver license”
- Marked “non-renewable” or “non-transferable”
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local DVS office. New York only gives you 30 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to New York.
North Carolina
Transferring your out-of-state license to North Carolina is easy, and it will all begin at your local North Carolina DMV office. You’ll want to start by making an appointment.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Out-of-state license or one document (with full name) proving identity and date of birth
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of North Carolina residency
- A document proving liability insurance coverage from a provider licensed to do business in NC
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
A few more details from the NCDMV website—
- Written and road tests may be waived for individuals with a valid license from another state.
- Once North Carolina issues a drivers license, out-of-state licenses are no longer valid and should be destroyed.
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local DVS office. North Carolina only gives you 60 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to North Carolina.
North Dakota
Transferring your out-of-state license to North Dakota is easy, and it will all begin by making an appointment at your local North Dakota Department of Transportation office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of North Dakota residency
- Proof of identity
The North Dakota DOT website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to North Dakota.
Ohio
Transferring your out-of-state license to Ohio is easy, and it will all begin with a visit to an Ohio deputy registrar license agency.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of Ohio residency
- Proof of identity
- Proof of legal presence
The Ohio BMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
If you arrive in Ohio with an expired out-of-state license, you will be required to pass a vision screening and a knowledge test at a driver examination station.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local DVS office. Ohio only gives you 30 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Ohio.
Oklahoma
Transferring your out-of-state license to Oklahoma is easy, and it will all begin with a visit to your local Oklahoma Driver Exam Site.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of legal presence
- Proof of identity
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The Oklahoma DPS website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
If you arrive in Oklahoma with an expired license, you will be required to take the state’s written knowledge and driving skills tests. Not to worry; a quick peek at the Oklahoma driver manual should be all you’ll need to pass the written test. After all, a stop sign is a stop sign no matter where you drive, right?
If your current license has been expired for more than a year when you arrive, you will be required to pass the state’s road skills test.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Oklahoma.
Oregon
Transferring your out-of-state license to Oregon is easy, and it will all begin with making an appointment at a DMV office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of legal presence
- Proof of identity
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
The Oregon DPS website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local DMV office. Oregon only gives you 30 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Oregon.
Pennsylvania
Transferring your out-of-state license to Pennsylvania is easy, and it will all begin at your local Pennsylvania Driver License Center.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- A completed drivers license application
- Your current license
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of Pennsylvania residency
The PennDOT website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local PennDOT office. Pennsylvania only gives you 60 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Pennsylvania.
Rhode Island
Transferring your out-of-state license to Rhode Island is easy, and it will all begin at your local Rhode Island Driver License Center.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- A completed drivers license application
- Your current license
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of Rhode Island residency
The RI DMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
If your out-of-state license has been expired for more than five years, you must apply for the Instruction Permit by taking the computerized knowledge exam at the Cranston DMV headquarters and complete a road test.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local DVS office. Rhode Island only gives you 30 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Rhode Island.
South Carolina
Transferring your out-of-state license to South Carolina is easy, and it will all begin at your local South Carolina DMV office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or a certified driving record)
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of South Carolina residency
- Proof of identity
- Proof of legal presence
The SC DMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
If you arrive with an out-of-state license that has been expired for nine months or more, you will be required to pass South Carolina’s written knowledge, driving skills, and vision tests.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local DVS office. South Carolina only gives you 30 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to South Carolina.
South Dakota
Transferring your out-of-state license to South Dakota is easy, and it will all begin at your local South Dakota Driver Exam location.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of South Dakota residency
- Proof of identity
- Proof of legal presence
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to South Dakota.
Tennessee
Transferring your out-of-state license to Tennessee is easy, and it will all begin at your local Tennessee Driver Service Center.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of Tennessee residency
- Proof of legal presence
If you arrive with an out-of-state license that has been expired for six months or more, you will be required to pass Tennessee’s written knowledge, driving skills, and vision tests.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Tennessee.
Texas
Transferring your out-of-state license to Texas is easy, and it will all begin at your local Texas DPS office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of Texas residency
- Proof of legal presence
- Proof of identity
- Evidence of Texas Vehicle Registration*
- Proof of Insurance* for each vehicle you own
*If you do not own a vehicle, you will sign a statement affirming this.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local DPS office. Texas only gives you 90 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Texas.
Utah
Within 90 days of relocating to Utah, follow these steps to transfer your license.
Step 1: Cancel your current license. You cannot apply for a resident license in Utah if you still have a resident license in any other state.
Step 2: Apply for a resident license at www.sircon.com/utah or www.nipr.com and print out your confirmation.
Step 3: Make a fingerprinting appointment at a Prometric test center by visiting Prometric’s website. Take the confirmation/receipt printout from your application with you to Prometric.
Step 4: Pay the $6 Prometric processing fee, made payable by money order, cashier’s check, company check, Visa, or MasterCard.
Step 5: Send proof of having established Utah residency, within the previous 90 days, via fax (801-538-3830) or as an email attachment to Heidi Petermann at [email protected]. This can be a copy of your Utah driver’s license, lease/rental agreement/mortgage closing, or major utility bill with the connection dates. Your name is required to be on the form of proof submitted.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Utah.
Vermont
Transferring your out-of-state license to Vermont is easy, and it will all begin at your local Vermont DMV office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or one expired less than three years)
- A completed license application
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of Vermont residency
- Proof of identity
- Proof of legal presence
The Vermont DMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
IMPORTANT NOTE: A person may not be issued a new license if their privilege to operate a motor vehicle has been suspended, revoked, or refused until it has been reinstated and the person has been officially notified in writing.
A license cannot be issued to a person when the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles has evidence that such person cannot operate a motor vehicle without endangering the other users of the highway.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local DVS office. Vermont only gives you 60 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Vermont.
Virginia
Transferring your out-of-state license to Virginia is easy, and it will all begin by making an appointment at your local Virginia DMV service center.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license
- Proof of legal presence
- Proof of Virginia residency
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
The Virginia DMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local DVS office. Virginia only gives you 60 days to get your transfer done.
The Virginia transfer process is explained simply and thoroughly in the video below.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Virginia.
Washington
Transferring your out-of-state license to Washington is easy, and it will all begin by making an appointment to visit a Washington driver licensing office.
The steps look like this:
Pre-apply online―Pre-apply online and make an appointment. This will create your Washington ID or drivers license number. Some restrictions may apply.
Visit a driver licensing office―Visit an office to finish the application you started online. You must make an appointment to go into the driver licensing office. Bring the following:
- Proof of identity, including your out-of-state license.
- Payment for the fees.
- Additional documents, if needed for EDL or name change.
At the office, you’ll need to:
- Tell us your Social Security number (SSN).
- Pay fees (cash, check, or card).
- Decide if you want to register to vote or be an organ donor (optional).
You may need to take Washington’s written knowledge and driving skills tests in the following circumstances:
- If you arrive with no license or an expired one
- If you arrive with a valid license but have certain medical conditions
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Washington.
West Virginia
Transferring your out-of-state license to West Virginia is easy, and it will all begin at your local West Virginia DMV office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license (or a current driving record)
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of West Virginia residency
- Proof of identity
- Your eyeballs (for a vision test)
If you have a valid non-expired out-of-state license, you are eligible to transfer the license. If the out-of-state license is expired, you are required to take all examination tests, vision, written, and road skills examination(s) before making application for a driver’s license. You are also required to complete a brief alcohol awareness course.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local DVS office. West Virginia only gives you 30 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to West Virginia.
Wisconsin
Transferring your out-of-state license to Wisconsin is easy, and it will all begin at your local Wisconsin DMV office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Proof of name and date of birth
- Proof of identity
- Proof of name change (if applicable)
- Proof of citizenship or legal status in the U.S.
- Proof of Wisconsin residency
- Proof of insurance
- Your eyes and ears (for vision and hearing tests)
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you have not held a valid drivers license in more than eight years, you will need to pass a knowledge test, highway sign recognition test, and a driving skills test.
Drivers missing a limb will be required to take a full driving skill test (known as a ‘special exam’ skills test) if they have not previously passed a road test after the limb was lost. Drivers with other physical or medical conditions will also be required to take appropriate tests (‘special exam’ tests, which may include the knowledge and signs tests) if there is a question about their ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you may want to hustle down to your local DVS office. Wisconsin only gives you 60 days to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Wisconsin.
Wyoming
Transferring your out-of-state license to Wyoming is easy, and it will all begin at your local Wyoming Department of Transportation office.
What you’ll need to bring them:
- Your current license
- Proof of Wyoming residency
- Proof of identity
The Wyoming DMV website provides a list of acceptable identity and residency documents.
What they’ll take from you:
- Money for license and transfer fees
- Your picture
- Your current license
Once you get settled in, you’ll have one year to get your transfer done.
Check here if you’re looking to transfer your learners permit to Wyoming.