Maryland lets you change your address online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office

Maryland's Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) offers three routes to update your address on your driver's license or ID card. The fastest is online through the MVA website if your license is not expired and you have not changed your name. If your license has expired or you need to change your name at the same time, you must visit an MVA office or mail in a form. There is no fee to change your address.

You do not need to renew your license early to update your address — the change takes effect when ready and your current license remains valid. However, your physical card will still show the old address until your next renewal. If you need the new address to appear on the card itself, you must request a replacement card, which costs $5.

Key Takeaways

  • Online address changes work only if your license is current and you have not changed your name; the process takes minutes and costs nothing.
  • If your license is expired or you are changing your name, you must go to an MVA office in person or submit form DL-43 by mail with proof of your new address.
  • Your address updates in the MVA system when ready, but your physical card keeps the old address until you renew or pay $5 for a replacement card.
  • Acceptable proof of address includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within 60 days of your request.

Online address change through the MVA website

Visit the Maryland MVA website and select the option to change your address online. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will ask you to confirm your current address and enter your new one.

This method works only if your license has not expired and you are not changing your name at the same time. If either condition applies to you, skip to the in-person or mail options below. The online change is when ready — your address updates in the MVA database right away, though your physical card will not reflect the change until your next renewal.

In-person address change at an MVA office

Walk into any MVA office with your current driver's license or ID card and a document proving your new address. You do not need an appointment, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Bring one of these as proof of address: a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail (such as a tax notice or voter registration card). The document must show your name and new address and be dated within 60 days of your visit.

Tell the MVA staff member you are changing your address only. They will update your record on the spot at no cost. Your address changes in the system when ready. If you want the new address printed on your physical card, you can request a replacement card for $5 at the same time.

Mail-in address change using form DL-43

read or request form DL-43 (process for Maryland Driver's License or Identification Card) from the MVA website or by calling 410-787-7758. Fill out the form with your new address and sign it. Include a copy of one acceptable proof-of-address document: utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within 60 days.

Mail the completed form and proof of address to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, 6601 Ritchie Highway NE, Glen Burnie, MD 21062. Processing typically takes 7 to 10 business days after the MVA receives your envelope. Your address updates in the system once processed, but again, your physical card will not change until renewal. If you need a replacement card with the new address sooner, you can request one by mail for $5 or visit an office in person.

What counts as proof of your new address

Maryland requires that your proof-of-address document show your full name and new street address and be dated within 60 days of when you submit it. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most straightforward option. Lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, and bank statements all work. Government mail such as a voter registration card, tax notice, or jury summons also counts.

Documents that do not count include credit card statements, insurance policies, or mail addressed to a PO box. If you have recently moved and do not yet have a document in your name at the new address, contact the MVA office to ask about alternatives — some offices may accept a signed letter from your landlord or a utility company confirmation.

Replacing your card to show the new address

Your address updates in the MVA system when ready, but your physical license or ID card continues to display your old address until you renew it at the end of its validity period. If you need the card itself to show your new address before then, you can order a replacement card for $5.

Request a replacement card when you change your address in person at an MVA office, or include the $5 fee with your mailed form DL-43. You can also visit an office later and pay the $5 fee at that time. The replacement card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Your old card remains valid for driving and identification purposes even after the replacement arrives.

Changing your address if your license is expired

If your driver's license or ID card has expired, you cannot use the online address-change option. You must either visit an MVA office in person or mail in form DL-43 with proof of your new address. At an office, bring your expired license and proof of address; staff will update your address and can renew your license at the same time if you wish.

If you choose to mail in the form, include your expired license (or a copy of it) along with proof of address. The MVA will update your address in the system. If you also want to renew your license while you are at it, you can do that through the same process, though renewal involves additional requirements such as a vision test or proof of residency depending on how long your license has been expired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address if I move?

Maryland law does not require you to update your address when ready, but you should do so within a reasonable time. If you are stopped by police, having an outdated address on your license can raise questions. More importantly, your address is used for voter registration, jury duty notices, and vehicle registration, so keeping it current helps you receive important mail.

Can I change my address online if my license expires soon?

Yes, as long as your license has not already expired. The online tool works for current licenses regardless of how soon they expire. If your license has expired, use the in-person or mail method instead.

What if I do not have a utility bill or lease in my name yet?

Contact your local MVA office and explain your situation. Some offices accept a signed letter from your landlord, a utility company confirmation, or a notarized statement of residency. Requirements can vary slightly by office, so calling ahead saves a trip.

How long does it take to change my address by mail?

The MVA typically processes mailed forms within 7 to 10 business days of receiving them. Mail delivery adds time on both ends, so plan for 2 to 3 weeks total. If you need the change faster, visit an MVA office in person for an when ready update.

Will my old license still work after I change my address?

Yes. Your license remains valid for driving and identification even after you update your address. The old address on the card does not affect its legal validity. If you want the card to show the new address, order a replacement for $5.