Where to start: the RMV and what you need

To change your driver license in Massachusetts, you go to the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). The RMV is the state agency that issues and updates licenses. What you need depends on what you're changing — your address, name, or photo — but most changes require you to visit an RMV office in person, bring proof of your current address, and present your existing license.

Massachusetts does not allow you to change your license by mail or online for most updates. The exception is a name change due to marriage or court order, which you can sometimes handle through a limited online process, though an in-person visit is still the standard route. Knowing which RMV office is nearest to you saves time; the RMV website lists all locations and their hours.

Key Takeaways

  • Address changes require a visit to an RMV office with your current license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Name changes need your current license, proof of the legal name change (marriage certificate or court order), and identification matching your new name.
  • Photo renewals happen when your license expires or when you request a new photo, and require your current license and proof of residency.
  • The RMV does not accept walk-ins at most locations; you must book an appointment through their website or by phone at 857-368-8000.

Changing your address on your license

An address change is the most common update. You need to bring your current Massachusetts driver license, proof of your new address, and a form of identification. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and new address.

The RMV will issue you a new license with the updated address. This is not a renewal — your license expiration date stays the same. The process takes about 10 minutes once you're called, but you must book an appointment first. Walk-ins are not accepted at most RMV branches.

Changing your name on your license

A name change requires legal documentation. If you changed your name through marriage, bring your marriage certificate. If you changed your name through a court order, bring the court order itself. You also need your current license and a second form of identification that shows your new name — this could be a passport, Social Security card, or birth certificate with an amended name.

If your new identification does not yet show your new name, the RMV may ask for additional documents. For example, if you have a court order but no ID in your new name yet, they may accept the court order plus your old license plus a certified copy of your birth certificate. Call the RMV at 857-368-8000 before your appointment to confirm what documents they need in your specific situation.

Getting a new photo on your license

You can request a new photo at any time, though most people do this when their license is about to expire. The RMV takes a new photo during your appointment. You need your current license and proof of your current address. The new license will have a new expiration date — typically five years from the date you renew.

If your current photo is more than 10 years old, the RMV may require you to get a new photo rather than keeping the old one. This is a safety measure to keep the photo database current.

How to book an RMV appointment

You must book an appointment before visiting an RMV office. Go to mass.gov/rmv and click on "Book an Appointment." You will select your location, the type of transaction (address change, name change, photo renewal), and your preferred date and time. Appointments typically fill up two to four weeks in advance, especially at busy locations like Boston and Worcester.

If the online system shows no appointments available, call 857-368-8000. Phone lines are often less crowded than the website, and staff can sometimes find slots that do not appear online. Have your license number and the type of change you need ready when you call.

What to bring and what to expect

Bring your current Massachusetts driver license to every appointment. Bring the specific documents for your type of change — proof of address for an address change, legal name-change documents for a name change, or just your license for a photo renewal. Bring one additional form of identification, such as a passport, Social Security card, or birth certificate.

At the appointment, you will check in, wait to be called, and then sit with an RMV clerk who will review your documents, take a new photo if needed, and process your request. The whole visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will receive your new license in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Your old license is no longer valid once you receive the new one.

If you cannot visit an RMV office

Massachusetts does not offer remote options for most license changes. However, if you have a documented disability or medical condition that makes travel difficult, you can request a home visit. Call 857-368-8000 and ask about the homebound service. You will need to provide medical documentation and schedule the visit in advance.

If you are out of state temporarily, you can sometimes extend your license or handle certain changes by mail, but this is limited. Contact the RMV directly to discuss your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my new license after my appointment?

Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. During that time, your old license is still valid. If you need to drive before the new one arrives and your address or name has changed, bring both your old license and proof of the change (like your marriage certificate or utility bill) in case you are stopped.

Can I change my address online or by mail?

No. Massachusetts requires you to visit an RMV office in person for address changes. You must book an appointment through mass.gov/rmv or by calling 857-368-8000.

What if I lost my current license?

If your license is lost or stolen, you need a replacement, not a change. This is a different transaction. You will need to book an appointment for a replacement license and bring proof of identity and proof of your current address, just as you would for a change.

Do I need an appointment if I am only changing my address?

Yes. All transactions at the RMV, including address changes, require an appointment. Walk-in service is not available at most locations. Book online at mass.gov/rmv or call 857-368-8000.

What counts as proof of my new address?

A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and new address all work. Some RMV offices also accept a property tax bill or insurance statement. Call ahead if you are unsure whether your document will be accepted.