What You Need to Do to Change Your Address in Maryland

To change the address on your Maryland driver's license, you have three options: go in person to a Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office, mail in a change-of-address form, or update online through the MVA website if you meet certain conditions. The fastest route is online if you are may be able to access — it takes minutes and costs nothing. If you cannot use the online system, the mail option takes about two weeks. In-person visits are when ready but require a trip to your local MVA office.

Maryland does not require you to renew your license to change your address. You can update it at any time, and the address change itself does not affect your license expiration date or cost you a fee unless you choose to get a replacement card.

Key Takeaways

  • Maryland offers three ways to change your address: online (fastest, free, if you meet requirements), by mail (takes about two weeks), or in person at an MVA office (when ready).
  • You do not need to renew your license to change your address, and there is no fee for the address change itself unless you request a replacement card.
  • Online address changes work only if your license is valid, not suspended or revoked, and you have a Social Security number on file with Maryland.
  • If you change your address by mail or online, your old physical card remains valid — the address on it does not have to match your current residence.
  • Maryland law requires you to notify the MVA within 60 days of moving to a new address.

Changing Your Address Online Through the MVA Website

The Maryland MVA allows you to change your address online at mva.maryland.gov if your license is currently valid and not suspended or revoked. You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and date of birth. The process takes about five minutes and is free.

Go to the MVA website, select "Change Address Online," and follow the prompts. You will confirm your identity by answering questions based on your driving record and personal information. Once you submit the change, it is processed when ready. Your old license card remains valid — you do not receive a new card unless you pay a replacement fee (currently $5 for a standard replacement). Your new address will appear on your record at the MVA, and any future correspondence from the state will go to the new address.

The online system does not work if your license has expired, is suspended, or is revoked. It also does not work if you do not have a Social Security number on file with Maryland. If either applies to you, use the mail or in-person method instead.

Changing Your Address by Mail

To change your address by mail, read the Change of Address form (DL 43) from the MVA website or request one by phone at 410-787-7758. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Mail it to the address listed on the form — currently the MVA's Glen Burnie office, though you should verify the current mailing address on the form itself.

Processing takes about two weeks from the date the MVA receives your form. You do not need to include your license card, a copy of your ID, or proof of residence. The form alone is sufficient. Like the online method, your old card remains valid, and you will not receive a new card unless you request and pay for a replacement.

Keep a copy of the form for your records. If you do not hear back within three weeks, call the MVA to confirm receipt. Mail can be delayed, and the MVA may not send you a confirmation letter.

Changing Your Address in Person at an MVA Office

Walk into any Maryland MVA office with your current driver's license and request an address change. Bring proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. The MVA staff will update your address on the spot, and the change takes effect when ready.

Your old license card remains valid. If you want a new card with your updated address printed on it, you can request a replacement card for $5. Without a replacement, your physical card will still show your old address, but your MVA record will reflect the new one.

MVA offices are open Monday through Friday, and some locations have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Wait times vary by location and time of day. Check the MVA website for your nearest office and current wait times before you go.

What Counts as Proof of Your New Address

If you change your address in person, bring one document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a bank or credit card statement, or a government-issued document such as a voter registration card or tax return.

A piece of mail from a government agency (such as a tax notice or court document) also works. A letter from your landlord or employer on letterhead does not count. If you are moving and do not yet have a document in your name at the new address, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter confirming your move-in date, or bring a signed lease.

Timeline and When Your Change Takes Effect

The timing depends on which method you choose. Online changes take effect when ready — your address is updated in the MVA system right away. In-person changes also take effect when ready. Mail changes take about two weeks from the date the MVA receives your form.

Maryland law requires you to notify the MVA within 60 days of moving. There is no penalty for missing this important date, but your license address will not match your actual residence, which can cause problems if you are pulled over or need to renew your license. It is best to update as soon as you move.

Getting a Replacement Card With Your New Address

If you change your address online or by mail, your old license card will still show your previous address. The card itself remains valid — you can use it to drive, and the address on it does not have to match where you live. However, if you want a new card printed with your updated address, you can request a replacement.

A replacement card costs $5 and takes about two weeks to arrive by mail. You can request it when you change your address online, or you can request it later at any MVA office or by mail. There is no requirement to get a replacement — many people keep their old card and straightforward update their address in the system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address if I move?

Maryland law requires you to notify the MVA within 60 days of moving to a new address. There is no fine for not doing so, but it is required. Updating your address ensures that your license record is accurate and that any future correspondence from the state reaches you.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

You cannot use the online system if your license is expired. You can still change your address by mail or in person. If your license is expired, you may want to renew it at the same time — the MVA can do both in one visit or process.

What if I move and do not have a utility bill yet?

Bring a signed lease, a letter from your landlord on letterhead, or a mortgage statement. If you are moving into a new place and have not received any mail there yet, a lease or landlord letter is acceptable proof of your new address for an in-person change.

Will changing my address affect my license expiration date?

No. Changing your address does not renew your license or change when it expires. Your expiration date stays the same. You only renew your license when the MVA notifies you that it is time, which is usually every eight years for a standard license.

Can I change my address without getting a new card?

Yes. You can change your address online, by mail, or in person without requesting a replacement card. Your old card remains valid to drive with, even though it shows your old address. Your MVA record will have your new address on file.