Change your Maryland address online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office

Maryland lets you change your driver's license address without getting a new license. You can do it online through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) website, by mail, or by visiting an MVA office in person. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and your record updates within one business day. By mail takes one to two weeks. In person is when ready but requires a trip to an MVA office.

You do not need to bring your physical license or any documents to change your address online. You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. If you choose to mail in your change, you will need to send your current license along with a completed form.

Key Takeaways

  • The MVA online portal is the fastest way to change your address — it takes about 10 minutes and updates within one business day.
  • You can mail a completed form and your current license to the MVA, though this method takes one to two weeks.
  • Visiting an MVA office in person gives you an when ready update but requires scheduling an appointment or waiting in line.
  • Your new address will appear on your license the next time you renew or replace it; your physical card does not change until then.
  • You must update your address within 60 days of moving to a new Maryland residence.

Changing your address online through the MVA website

Go to the Maryland MVA website and select the option to change your address. You will be asked to enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity and then ask for your new address. Once you submit, you will receive a confirmation number.

Your address change takes effect within one business day. The MVA will send a confirmation letter to your new address within 10 business days. Your physical license card will still show your old address until you renew it or request a replacement, but your record in the MVA system will be updated when ready. This means police, courts, and other agencies will see your new address when they look up your license.

Changing your address by mail

read the process for a Duplicate Driver's License or Identification Card (form DL 43) from the MVA website. Fill in your new address and sign the form. Mail your current license along with the completed form to the address listed on the MVA website. Do not fold or bend your license when you mail it.

Processing by mail typically takes one to two weeks. The MVA will mail your updated license to your new address. During this time, your old address remains on file in the system, though the MVA will begin processing your change as soon as they receive your form. If you need your license sooner, consider visiting an MVA office instead.

Changing your address in person at an MVA office

Visit any Maryland MVA office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or other official document showing your name and new address. Bring your Social Security card or a document with your Social Security number on it.

You can schedule an appointment online through the MVA website or walk in during office hours. Appointments are usually faster, but walk-in service is available. The MVA will update your address on the spot, and you will leave with your license showing the new address. If you do not want to wait for a new card to be printed, you can request that they straightforward update your record without issuing a replacement license — your old card will still be valid, just with outdated information.

What counts as proof of your new address

The MVA accepts several documents as proof of address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name dated within the last 60 days is the most common choice. A lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or homeowner's insurance policy also works. Bank statements and credit card statements are usually not accepted.

Your document must show your full name and your new street address. A PO box does not count as a residential address for driver's license purposes. If you recently moved and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your address and move-in date.

The important date for updating your address

Maryland law requires you to report a change of address to the MVA within 60 days of moving. If you do not update your address within this window, you can still change it later, but driving with an outdated address on your license can create problems if you are stopped by police or involved in an accident. Your insurance company may also deny a claim if your address on file with them does not match your license.

There is no penalty for updating your address late, but it is best to do it as soon as you move. The 60-day rule applies whether you move within Maryland or move to Maryland from another state.

What happens to your physical license card

When you change your address online or by mail, your physical license card will continue to show your old address until you renew it or request a replacement. The MVA system updates when ready, but the card in your wallet does not change. This can be confusing, but it is normal — your record in the system is what matters for legal purposes.

If you want a new card with your updated address printed on it, you can request a replacement license at any MVA office. There is a fee for a replacement (separate from the address change fee), and it takes about 10 business days to arrive by mail. If you visit an office in person to change your address, you can choose whether to pay for a replacement card or keep your old one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay a fee to change my address?

No, changing your address on your Maryland driver's license is free. You only pay a fee if you request a replacement license card with your new address printed on it. The replacement fee varies but is typically under $10.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

Yes, you can change your address even if your license is expired. However, you will need to renew your license at the same time if it has been expired for more than a certain period. Contact the MVA or check their website to confirm the rules for your specific situation.

What if I moved out of state but still have a Maryland license?

If you have moved out of Maryland permanently, you should get a driver's license from your new state. However, if you are keeping your Maryland license for any reason, you can still update your address to your out-of-state address through the online system or by mail. Some states require you to get a new license within a certain time frame after moving, so check your new state's rules.

Will my insurance company know about my address change?

No, the MVA does not automatically notify your insurance company when you change your address. You must contact your insurance company separately to update your address with them. Failing to do so could affect your coverage or cause claims to be denied.

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

If you request a replacement license card with your updated address, it typically arrives within 10 business days. If you change your address online or by mail without requesting a replacement, your physical card does not change — only your record in the MVA system updates.