You can change your Maryland driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office

Maryland allows you to update your address on your driver's license through three routes: the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) website, by mail with a form, or by visiting an MVA office in person. The online method is fastest and costs nothing. You'll need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid email address to start. The process takes about 10 minutes and your updated license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If you prefer not to use the online system, you can mail a completed form to the MVA or walk into any full-service MVA office. Each route has different timing and document requirements, which vary depending on whether you're also renewing your license or just changing the address on an existing one.

Key Takeaways

  • The MVA online portal at mva.maryland.gov is the fastest and cheapest way to change your address — it takes 10 minutes and costs nothing.
  • You need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid email address to change your address online.
  • If you mail a form, send it to the MVA address on the form itself; processing takes 2 to 3 weeks after they receive it.
  • Visiting an MVA office in person works the same day, but you'll need to bring your current license and proof of your new address.
  • A change of address does not renew your license — your expiration date stays the same.

Changing your address online through the MVA website

Go to mva.maryland.gov and look for the "Change Address" option under the "Online Services" section. You will need to log in or create an account using your driver's license number and Social Security number. The system will ask you to enter your new address and confirm your email address where the MVA will send a confirmation.

After you submit, the MVA mails you a new license with the updated address within 7 to 10 business days. Your license number and expiration date do not change. There is no fee for this service. This is the most common route because it requires no documents, no trip to an office, and no waiting in line.

Mailing a change of address form to the MVA

read the "Change of Address" form from mva.maryland.gov or call the MVA at 410-787-7758 to request one by mail. Fill in your current license number, new address, and sign the form. You do not need to include documents or proof of address when you mail it.

Send the completed form to the address printed on the form itself — this is typically the MVA's central processing office in Glen Burnie. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks after the MVA receives your form. Your new license arrives by mail after that. Like the online method, there is no fee, and your expiration date does not change.

Changing your address in person at an MVA office

Visit any full-service 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 bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Bring the original document or a certified copy — a photo of it on your phone is not enough.

The MVA will update your address on the spot and issue you a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while your new plastic license is printed and mailed. There is no fee. This route is useful if you need proof of your new address when ready or if you prefer to handle it face-to-face. Wait times vary by office and time of day; the MVA website shows current wait times for each location.

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. Utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, and insurance documents all work. Government-issued mail like tax notices or voter registration cards also count. The document must be an original or certified copy — a photocopy or photo will not be accepted in person.

If you do not have a document in your name yet, you can bring a lease signed by both you and your landlord, or a mortgage document. Some people bring a utility bill in a spouse's name along with a marriage certificate. Call your local MVA office before you visit if you are unsure whether your specific document will work.

Timing and what to expect after you submit

Online submissions are processed within 7 to 10 business days. Mailed forms take 2 to 3 weeks after receipt. In-person visits are completed the same day, though you receive a temporary paper license and wait for the plastic one by mail.

Your new license will show your updated address but keep your same license number and expiration date. If your license expires within the next 60 days, you may want to renew it at the same time rather than change the address alone — the MVA can do both in one visit or one online transaction. Check your license to see when it expires.

Changing your address if your license is expired or suspended

If your license is expired, you cannot change the address online or by mail. You must visit an MVA office in person. Bring your expired license, proof of your new address, and be prepared to renew your license at the same time. The renewal process includes a vision test and updated photo.

If your license is suspended, contact the MVA before you visit to understand what caused the suspension and whether you can update your address while it is suspended. Some suspensions allow address changes; others require the suspension to be lifted first. Call 410-787-7758 to ask about your specific situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my address if I move within Maryland?

Yes. Maryland law requires you to report a change of address within 60 days of moving. You can do this online, by mail, or in person. There is no penalty for updating late, but it is required.

Will changing my address renew my license?

No. A change of address keeps your current expiration date. If your license expires soon, you can renew it at the same time, but changing the address alone does not extend your license.

What if I moved out of state?

If you moved out of Maryland, you should surrender your Maryland license and get a license in your new state. Contact your new state's DMV or equivalent agency. You do not need to formally surrender your Maryland license, but you should not use it once you have a valid license elsewhere.

How long does the new license take to arrive by mail?

Most new licenses arrive within 7 to 10 business days of submission. During busy periods or holidays, it may take longer. If you need proof of your address before the new license arrives, the temporary paper license issued in person works as proof.

Can I change my address without going to an MVA office?

Yes. The online method and mail method both work without visiting an office. Online is fastest at 7 to 10 days; mail takes 2 to 3 weeks. In-person is only necessary if your license is expired or if you need the change completed the same day.