Where to change your address and what you need

You can change your address on your Massachusetts driver's license through the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) in person, by mail, or online. The online option is the fastest if your new address is within Massachusetts and your license is not expired or suspended. You will need your current license number, your new address, and a way to verify your identity — usually your Social Security number.

If you are moving out of state or your license is expired, you must renew it at the same time you change your address. The RMV treats an out-of-state move as a license renewal, not just an address update, so you will need to provide proof of residency in your new state as well as Massachusetts identification documents.

Key Takeaways

  • Online address changes take a few minutes and work only if you are staying in Massachusetts and your license is valid.
  • In-person visits at an RMV office take about 30 to 60 minutes depending on wait times and require only your current license and proof of your new address.
  • Mail-in address changes require a completed form, a copy of your license, and proof of your new address, and take two to three weeks to process.
  • Moving out of state requires a full license renewal, not just an address change, and you must do this in your new state within the timeframe they require.

Changing your address online through the RMV website

The RMV allows you to change your address online if your new address is in Massachusetts, your license is not expired, and you have not had any suspensions or restrictions. Go to mass.gov/rmv and look for the "Change Address" option under the "Licenses" section. You will enter your license number, date of birth, and last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity.

After you confirm your new address, the RMV will mail you an updated license within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to visit an office or pay a fee for an online address change. Your current license remains valid until the new one arrives.

Changing your address in person at an RMV office

Walk-in visits to an RMV branch office are available at locations across Massachusetts. Bring your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. You do not need an appointment, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

The RMV will update your address on the spot, and you will receive an updated license in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. There is no fee for an address change. If you need to drive before your new license arrives, your current license is still valid.

Changing your address by mail

You can mail in an address change using the RMV's Change of Address form (available at mass.gov/rmv). Include a copy of your current driver's license, a copy of one document showing your new address, and mail both to the RMV address listed on the form. Do not send your original license.

Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the RMV receives your envelope. Your current license remains valid during this time. If you need to confirm your change was received, you can call the RMV customer service line, though wait times are often long.

What counts as proof of your new address

The RMV accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, bank statements, and insurance documents. The document must show your name and your new address. A utility bill dated within the last 60 days is the most straightforward option.

If you are moving to a new address but have not yet received a bill or lease in your name, a signed lease or a letter from your landlord or property manager stating your name and move-in date will work. Some people use a bank statement or credit card statement if it shows their new address.

Moving out of state and what happens to your Massachusetts license

If you are moving to another state, you do not need to do anything with your Massachusetts license when ready. However, most states require you to obtain a driver's license in your new state within 30 to 60 days of establishing residency — the exact timeframe depends on the state. Check your new state's DMV website for their specific timeline and requirements.

You can keep your Massachusetts license as a form of identification, but you cannot legally drive in your new state on it once you have established residency there. Your new state will issue you a license, and you may be able to transfer some of your driving record from Massachusetts.

If your license is expired or suspended

An expired or suspended license cannot be updated for address only — you must renew or reinstate it. If your license expired fewer than five years ago, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person. If it expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person at an RMV office and may need to retake the written and road tests.

If your license is suspended, you must resolve the suspension before you can renew or change your address. Contact the RMV to find out why your license is suspended and what steps are needed to lift the suspension. Common reasons include unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or medical disqualifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my updated license in the mail?

The RMV typically mails updated licenses within 7 to 10 business days of processing your change. If you have not received it after two weeks, contact the RMV customer service line with your license number and the date you made the change.

Do I have to change my address if I move within Massachusetts?

You are not legally required to change your address when ready, but the RMV recommends doing so within a reasonable time. If you are pulled over and your license shows an old address, police may ask for clarification, though it is not a violation on its own.

Can I change my address if I do not have a utility bill or lease?

Yes. A signed lease, a letter from your landlord or property manager, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank statement all work. The document must show your name and new address and be dated recently enough to be current.

What if I move and then move again before my new license arrives?

You can make another address change request. If your updated license has not arrived yet, contact the RMV before submitting a second change so they can update your request rather than sending a license to an address you no longer use.

Do I need to change my address if I am moving to a military base?

Military members can use their military address on their license. Bring your military ID and a document showing your military address to an RMV office, or mail in the Change of Address form with a copy of your military ID and a military address verification letter.