Moving to Washington D.C.: transferring your license
The steps in plain English. Each one links to the District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles (DC DMV) page it came from. Last checked Nov 15, 2026.
Convert your out-of-state license once you've lived in DC more than 60 days.
Source: dmv.dc.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Fill out the application and bring it to a DC DMV service center.
Source: dmv.dc.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Surrender your old license, or bring a certified driving record issued within 30 days.
Source: dmv.dc.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Bring proof of identity, lawful presence, Social Security number and two proofs of DC residency.
Source: dmv.dc.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026If your old license expired more than 90 days ago, take the knowledge and road tests.
Source: dmv.dc.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
Check before you go: requirements and fees change, and some depend on your age or situation. The official page is the final word.
Related facts
- Deadline for new residents
- Convert your out-of-state license once you have lived in DC more than 60 days.Source: dmv.dc.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Tests for new residents
- No knowledge or road test if your out-of-state license is valid or expired 90 days or less. Expired more than 90 days, you take both. Vision screening applies.Source: dmv.dc.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Surrender your old license
- Hand in your out-of-state license. If you don't have it, bring a certified driving record issued within the last 30 days.Source: dmv.dc.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
More in the Washington D.C. guide
Official Washington D.C. links
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