Moving to Ohio, whether you’re moving to a new city within the state or from another part of the US, is a big deal. It’s an exciting transition, but it also comes with a large and sometimes overwhelming “to-do” list. In addition to finding your new home, packing your things, and finding a reputable Ohio moving company to help get you there, you also have to consider moving extras, like forwarding your mail, getting a new license, and finalizing your change of address Ohio.
Alerting the proper departments and companies about your change of address in Ohio is an important part of any move. From the Ohio BMV change of address to the IRS and your utility departments, there’s lots to consider!
But don’t worry! With this handy checklist, you can be sure you’ve told everyone you need to know where your new home is!
Table of Contents
How to Change Your Address in Ohio With the BMV
Anyone moving to or within Ohio has to document their change of address with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles. In Ohio, when you move, you are required not only to file for an Ohio BMV change of address; you’ll also need to get a new Ohio driver’s license, a new vehicle registration, and update your voter registration.
This ensures that local and state government agencies have your correct information on file, and you’ll be able to prove your point of residence with your ID. There are three ways to change your address in Ohio at the BMV.
*Please note that there is not an Ohio DMV change of address as there is no Ohio department of motor vehicles. In Ohio, the change of address process is handled by the “Bureau of Motor Vehicles”, and therefore, it is an Ohio BMV change of address.
1. Change of Address Ohio BMV By Mail:
First you’ll need to download and print Ohio’s Change of Address Form, which is also known as Form BMV 5756. If you can’t access or download the Ohio address change form, you can also send a written request for a change of address, which must include the following:
- Your full name
- Your date of birth
- Your Ohio license or ID number
- BOTH your previous and new addresses
Then, you can mail your form to the following mailing address:
Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Deputy Registrar Services
P.O. Box 16520
Columbus, OH 43216
This process only applies if you are moving within Ohio. New Ohio residents will have to visit in person.
2. Ohio BMV Change of Address Online
Go to the OH BMV website to fill out an Ohio BMV change of address online form. You’ll need your license number or a valid ID number to use this method!
Tip: If you also need to renew or get a REAL ID-compliant license, you cannot complete that entire transaction online; you’ll need to visit a Deputy Registrar’s Office in person to show the required proof of identity, legal presence, and residency.
3. BMV Change of Address Ohio In Person:
You can also change your address in Ohio by visiting your local Deputy Registrar’s Office! While you’re there, you can also renew your driver’s license or ID if needed. You’ll need to complete the same form as above and bring proof of your new address. Acceptable proof of residence includes:
- Your updated auto insurance policy
- A checking or savings account statement with your new address information
- A utility bill from within 60 days of your visit, for your new residence
While you’re at the BMV, you can also take this time to fill out an Ohio license change of address and change your voter registration in Ohio. Updating your license is required by every state, usually within 30 days of your move. Failing to update to a new driver’s license is a misdemeanor, and you could be subject to a fine if your address on your license is incorrect.
If you want to vote and don’t update your registration, you could be barred from both your old polling station and your new one due to lack of ID verification.
Change of Address Ohio & Getting a New License From Out of State
Visit a Deputy Registrar’s Office with your current driver’s license, proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or U.S. passport), proof of Social Security number or Social Security Card, and two documents showing Ohio residency. If your out-of-state license is valid, you typically won’t need to take a written or driving test, but you must pass a vision screening. Once you obtain your Ohio license, update your vehicle registration to receive your license plates!
Fees for an Ohio Change of Address
- Changing your address alone is typically free
- Completing an Ohio Driver’s license change or getting a new printed license with your updated address may require a standard license fee.
If you’re looking into how to complete a change of address Ohio with the BMV as a part of a move to or from the area, be it to a major city like Columbus or Akron or perhaps to a slower-paced suburb like London OH, our Ohio movers are always here to help. Call us at 330-359-1491 to discuss our moving services and receive a customized estimate today!
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USPS Change of Address in Ohio
Another important government agency to tell about your Ohio change of address is the United States Postal Service (USPS). This will ensure that all of your mail is properly forwarded to your new address, so you don’t miss anything! You can complete the postal service change of address Ohio online or in person.
To complete an Ohio address change online, simply go to USPS.com/move and follow the prompts. This is the fastest and easiest way to begin forwarding your mail. Note that there is a service fee when you change your address online, but it’s only $1, and it’s used to prevent fraud by validating your identity using your credit or debit card.
If you prefer to do things in person, you can visit your local post office and request a Mover’s Guide Packet. Inside the packet, you’ll find a form titled “PS Form 3575.” Fill it out and give it to one of the postal workers at the post office, or just drop it in the letter slot. The USPS will then send a confirmation to your NEW address in about 5 business days, and then you are all set!
Changing Your Address in Ohio: Who Else Needs to Know?
Remember, there are A LOT of people and services who need to know your correct address. After handling your state requirements (ALWAYS do these first!), you’ll want to make sure that the following folks have your updated address:
- Your insurance company: Your agent might only work in a certain area, so you might need a new agent. Additionally, a new address in a new area can sometimes impact the cost of your premium!
- The IRS: Despite the IRS’s reputation, this is actually very easy! If you move before you file your taxes for the year, simply put your new, official state address on your return. (If you are moving to Ohio from another state, also be sure to submit tax returns for ALL the states you lived in the previous year.) If you’re moving after tax season, you can fill out Form 8822 to notify the IRS of your new residence. You can also write them a letter with your legal name, old and new address, social security number, and a signature to complete the IRS change of address Ohio.
- Your bank & credit card companies: It is so important to make sure that the folks holding your money have the right address. This also ensures that banking statements are sent to the right place, and you’ll want to get updated checks (if you still use those).
- Any other subscriptions or services: Whether it’s a magazine subscription or your doctor’s office, any service you use regularly needs to know your correct address. For an easy checklist, go through your latest bills, either in your mail or on your credit card statement, to see who bills you on a regular basis.
- Passport: If you already have a valid passport, there’s no requirement to update it just because you’ve moved. You can simply write in your Ohio address change. However, if you happen to relocate while your passport application is still under review, you can call the U.S. Department of State at 1-877-487-2778 or 1-888-874-7793 and provide your new address.
- Utilities providers: Make sure you’re not paying utilities at your old residence by alerting them about your move, and make sure your utilities are “on” by contacting your new provider.
- Friends and family: Your friends and family absolutely need to know where you live! Whether they want to send you birthday presents, or letters, or visit, it’s important to keep the folks you love in the loop about your new home.
Moving to Ohio From Out of State?
If you are moving to Ohio from another state, you’ll need to change your address using the methods we have already talked about, but keep in mind that each state has its own official requirements for entering or leaving the state. In the state you’re leaving, you need to be sure to alert your local department of motor vehicles (this is important for voting, tax and census purposes.)
New folks moving to Ohio also have a few special requirements. Like everyone moving to a new home, you’ll need to update your address on your license, but as an out-of-stater, you’ll need to apply for an Ohio License within 30 days of your moving day. You’ll have to register to vote in Ohio, and you’ll have to update your Organ Donor status as well.
For your car, you’ll need to start by obtaining Ohio car insurance and having your vehicle inspected in the county where your new home is located. In some areas, a smog test might be required in addition to standard inspection points. You’ll have to go in person to transfer your vehicle’s title to Ohio and apply for an Ohio registration, and both of these must happen within 30 days of your move.
Welcome to Ohio!
From the BMV to the USPS, that’s everything you need to know about changing your address in Ohio. If you’ve made your way through the process and double-checked all the providers who “need to know,” you’re all set to begin the newest chapter of your life in Ohio.
From all of us here at Krupp Moving and Storage, your trusted long distance movers and top-rated local movers, let us be the first to say, Welcome to Ohio. You’re going to love it here!
And if you need any help with the moving process, call our Ohio movers at 330-359-1491 for your free quote.
