Maryland requires you to update your driver's license address within 60 days of moving

Maryland law says you must report an address change to the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) within 60 days of moving. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing if you do not need a replacement card. If you want a new physical card with your updated address printed on it, the fee is $27.

You do not need to pass a test or provide proof of residency to change your address. The MVA will update your record based on what you submit, and your new address becomes active when ready in their system even if you choose not to get a replacement card.

Key Takeaways

  • Maryland gives you 60 days from your move date to update your address with the MVA, and waiting longer can result in a fine.
  • The online address change through the MVA website is free and takes about 10 minutes, but does not print a new card.
  • A replacement card with your new address costs $27 and arrives by mail in about 7 to 10 business days.
  • You can change your address in person at any MVA office without an appointment, or by mail using Form DL-43.
  • Your address update is active in the MVA system when ready, even if you do not order a replacement card.

Online address change through the MVA website

The fastest way to update your address is through the Maryland MVA website. Go to mva.maryland.gov, select "Change Your Address Online," and log in with your driver's license number and date of birth. You will enter your new address, confirm it, and submit. The whole process takes about 10 minutes.

This method is free and your address updates in the system right away. However, your physical driver's license card will still show your old address. If you need a card with the new address printed on it, you will need to order a replacement card separately for $27. Many people use the online change for insurance and registration purposes and order a replacement card only if they need it for identification.

Getting a replacement card with your new address

If you want a new physical card printed with your updated address, you have two options: order it online at the same time you change your address, or request it separately. Either way, the cost is $27 and the card arrives by mail in about 7 to 10 business days.

When you order online, you can choose to have the replacement card mailed to your new address or to a different address if needed. The card is valid when ready upon arrival — you do not need to set up it. Your old card remains valid for identification purposes until the new one arrives, so you are not without a card during the wait.

Changing your address in person at an MVA office

You can walk into any Maryland MVA office and update your address without an appointment. Bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and new address.

If you want a replacement card, tell the clerk when you arrive. You will pay $27 on the spot, and the card will be mailed to you. The in-person visit itself takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on how busy the office is. Your address updates when ready in the system, and you can use your old card for identification while you wait for the replacement.

Changing your address by mail

You can mail a completed Form DL-43 (Change of Address form) to the MVA. read the form from mva.maryland.gov, fill it out, and mail it to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of proof of your new address — the same documents accepted in person work by mail.

Processing by mail takes 2 to 3 weeks. If you want a replacement card, include a check or money order for $27 payable to "Maryland MVA." Your address will update in the system once the MVA receives and processes your form, but you will not know the exact date. If you need your address updated quickly, online or in-person is faster.

What happens if you miss the 60-day important date

Maryland law requires the address change within 60 days of moving. If you do not update within that window, you can still change your address at any time — there is no permanent penalty. However, if an officer stops you and discovers your address is outdated, you may receive a citation. The fine for failing to report an address change is typically $75 to $100, though enforcement varies.

More practically, an outdated address can cause problems with vehicle registration renewal, insurance, and mail from the MVA. It is easier to update as soon as you move than to deal with these issues later.

Updating your address for vehicle registration and insurance

Changing your driver's license address does not automatically update your vehicle registration or insurance. After you change your license address, contact your insurance company separately to update your policy. You can usually do this online, by phone, or through your agent in a few minutes.

For vehicle registration, you will need to renew your registration at the MVA when it expires, and you can update your address at that time. If you want to update your registration address before renewal, you can do so online through the MVA website or in person at an MVA office for a small fee. Keeping all three — license, registration, and insurance — in sync prevents confusion if you are pulled over or need to file a claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online if my license is suspended or expired?

No. The online address change requires you to log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, and the system will reject the request if your license is not valid. You will need to renew or reinstate your license first, or change your address in person at an MVA office with your expired or suspended card and proof of residency.

Do I have to get a replacement card, or can I just update the address in the system?

You can update the address in the system without ordering a replacement card. The online change is free and updates your record when ready. Your old card remains valid for identification — you only need a new card if you want the updated address printed on it.

What counts as proof of my new address?

The MVA accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days showing your name and new address. A copy is fine — you do not need the original. If you do not have any of these, ask the MVA clerk what other documents they will accept.

How long does it take to get a replacement card in the mail?

A replacement card ordered online or in person takes about 7 to 10 business days to arrive. Mail processing takes longer — 2 to 3 weeks. Your address updates in the MVA system right away, so you do not have to wait for the card to arrive for the change to take effect.

What if I move again before my replacement card arrives?

You can change your address again online or in person at any time. If your replacement card arrives with an outdated address, you can request another replacement card, but you will pay the $27 fee again. To avoid this, you can wait to order a replacement card until you are settled in your new place.