The fastest way to change your address in Maryland
You can change your address with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office. The online method is quickest — you can update your address in minutes without leaving home, and the change takes effect when ready. If you prefer mail or in-person service, both work, but mail takes longer and in-person visits mean waiting in line.
You do not need to renew your license or get a new card to change your address. The MVA will update your record, and your current license remains valid. Your next renewal will show the new address.
Key Takeaways
- The Maryland MVA lets you change your address online at mva.maryland.gov using your driver's license number and date of birth, with no fee.
- Online changes take effect when ready; mail and in-person changes take several business days to process.
- You do not need a new license card when you change your address — your current card stays valid until renewal.
- If you move out of state or lose your license, you cannot use the online method and must visit an MVA office or mail in a form.
Changing your address online
Go to mva.maryland.gov and look for the "Change Address" option under the "Online Services" section. You will need your Maryland driver's license number and your date of birth. Enter your new address, review it for accuracy, and submit. The system will confirm the change when ready, and your MVA record updates right away.
This method works only if your license is still valid and you have not moved out of state. If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, you cannot use the online system and must visit an MVA office instead.
Changing your address by mail
read or request the DL 43 form (process for Change of Address) from the MVA website or pick one up at any MVA office. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Mail it to the address listed on the form along with a copy of your driver's license (front and back).
Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after the MVA receives your form. Mail delivery adds time on both ends, so allow two to three weeks total. Keep a copy of what you send in case you need to follow up.
Changing your address in person at an MVA office
Bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days all work. Walk in to any MVA office during business hours. Tell the staff member you need to change your address.
The change takes effect the same day, though the MVA may take a few business days to update all its systems. You do not pay a fee. Wait times vary by location and time of day; visiting early in the morning or mid-week usually means shorter lines.
What counts as proof of your new address
The MVA accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a government notice all work. A piece of mail from a government agency is also acceptable.
A letter from your landlord or a handwritten note does not count. If you just moved and do not yet have a dated document in your name, ask the MVA office what temporary proof they will accept — some offices will work with you if you bring a lease and a recent utility bill from your old address.
When you cannot change your address online
If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, the online system will not let you proceed. If you have moved out of state, you cannot use the Maryland online service. In both cases, you must visit an MVA office in person or mail in the DL 43 form.
If you have lost your license, you will need to report it lost and get a replacement before you can change your address. Visit an MVA office with proof of identity and your new address to handle both at once.
How long the change takes
| Method | Time to Process | When It Takes Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Online | when ready | Right away |
| In person at MVA office | Same day | Same day or within a few business days |
| By mail | 7 to 10 business days plus mail time | When MVA receives and processes the form |
If you need proof that you have reported your address change — for example, to show an employer or landlord — the online system gives you a confirmation page you can print or save. Keep that confirmation until your next license renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a new license card when I change my address?
No. Your current license card stays valid. The MVA updates your address in its system, and the new address will appear on your next renewal card. You do not pay anything or need to visit an office unless you want to.
What if I move and do not have a utility bill yet?
Bring what you do have — a lease, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement dated within 60 days. If nothing is in your name yet, ask the MVA office what they will accept. Some offices will take a lease plus a recent bill from your old address as temporary proof.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
Not online. You must visit an MVA office in person or mail in the DL 43 form. If you are in person, you can renew your license at the same time if you want to.
How do I know if my address change went through?
If you changed it online, you get a confirmation page right away — save or print it. If you mailed the form or visited in person, the MVA will send you a confirmation letter to your new address within a few weeks. You can also call the MVA at 410-787-7758 to confirm.
What if I move again before my change is processed?
Submit a new change request with your current address. If you mailed a form and then moved, contact the MVA to let them know so they can update your file with the most recent address.