Change your address online, by mail, or in person at the MVA

You can update your Maryland driver's license address without getting a new license — the state doesn't require you to replace the card itself. The fastest route is the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) website, where you can change your address in minutes if your license is valid and not suspended. If you prefer to do it in person or by mail, both options are available, though they take longer.

You'll need your current license number, Social Security number, and the new address. The MVA charges no fee for an address change. What happens next depends on which method you choose: online changes take effect when ready, mail takes one to two weeks, and in-person visits are processed the same day.

Key Takeaways

  • The MVA website lets you change your address online in minutes if your license is valid and not suspended or expired.
  • You need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and new address to make the change through any method.
  • In-person changes at an MVA office happen the same day, but you'll need to bring your current license and proof of your new address.
  • Mail-in changes take one to two weeks and require a completed form and a copy of your license sent to the MVA.
  • An address change does not give you a new license card — your old card remains valid with the updated address on file.

Change your address online through the MVA website

Go to mva.maryland.gov and select "Change Address" under the Driver's License section. You'll be asked to log in or create an account. Have your driver's license number and Social Security number ready — the system will verify both before letting you proceed.

Enter your new address exactly as you want it to appear on file. Double-check the spelling and format, because this is what will print on any replacement license you order later. Once you submit, the change takes effect when ready. You'll receive a confirmation number on screen and by email. Your old license card remains valid; you don't need to do anything else unless you want to order a replacement card with the new address printed on it.

The online method works only if your license is currently valid and not suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license is expired or suspended, you'll need to use the in-person or mail method instead.

Change your address in person at an MVA office

Bring your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The MVA will not accept a post office change-of-address form as proof.

Walk in to any MVA office during business hours — no appointment is required for an address change. Tell the clerk you need to update your address. They'll verify your information, process the change, and hand you a receipt. The change takes effect when ready. Your old license card is still valid; you can order a replacement card with the new address if you want one, but it's not required.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Weekday mornings are typically shorter than afternoons or weekends. Check the MVA website for your nearest office location and hours before you go.

Change your address by mail

read the DL-43 form from mva.maryland.gov or request one by calling the MVA at 410-787-7758. Fill in your name, license number, and new address. Make a photocopy of the front and back of your current driver's license and include it with the form.

Mail both the completed form and the copies to:

Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration Driver's License Division 6601 Ritchie Highway, NE Glen Burnie, MD 21062

Processing takes one to two weeks from the date the MVA receives your mail. There is no fee. Your old license remains valid during this time. Once processed, you'll receive a confirmation letter. Your address change is now on file, though your physical license card still shows the old address until you order a replacement.

What to do if you want a new license card with your updated address

An address change alone does not give you a new card. If you want the new address printed on your license card itself, you must order a replacement. You can do this online at mva.maryland.gov, in person at any MVA office, or by mail using the DL-43 form and requesting a replacement card.

A replacement license costs $70 and takes about two weeks to arrive by mail. You can also pay an extra fee to have it expedited. The new card will show your updated address and a new expiration date (typically eight years from the issue date). Your old card becomes invalid once the new one arrives.

You don't have to order a replacement card right away. Your address change is on file with the state whether or not you have a new card, and your old card remains valid for identification purposes.

Proof of address documents the MVA accepts

If you're changing your address in person, bring one of these documents dated within the last 60 days:

  • Utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet)
  • Lease or rental agreement
  • Mortgage statement or property tax bill
  • Bank or credit card statement
  • Insurance policy (home or auto)
  • Government mail (tax return, voter registration, court document)

The document must show your name and your new address. A post office change-of-address form does not count as proof. If you're changing your address by mail or online, you don't need to submit proof — the MVA processes the change based on your license number and Social Security number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to get a new license card when I move?

No. You only need to update your address on file with the MVA. Your current license card remains valid for identification. You can order a replacement card with the new address printed on it if you want one, but it's not required by law.

How long does it take to change my address online?

The online change takes about five minutes to complete and takes effect when ready. You'll receive a confirmation number on screen and by email. No further action is needed unless you want to order a replacement card.

What if my license is expired?

You cannot change your address online if your license is expired. Use the in-person method at an MVA office or mail in the DL-43 form. Bring your expired license and proof of your new address if you go in person.

Can I change my address if I have a suspended or revoked license?

Yes, but you must do it in person or by mail. The online system will not let you proceed if your license is suspended or revoked. Bring your license and proof of address to an MVA office, or mail the DL-43 form with a copy of your license.

Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance?

Changing your address with the MVA does not affect your driving record or any violations on it. Your insurance company should be notified separately of your move — contact them directly to update your policy address.