Change your address online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office
Maryland lets you update your driver's license address without renewing the entire license. You can do this online through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) website, by mail, or by visiting an MVA office in person. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. By mail takes one to two weeks. In person is when ready but requires a trip to an MVA location.
You do not need to take a new photo or pass a vision test unless your license is expiring within 60 days. The MVA will mail you a corrected license with your new address printed on it, or you can pick one up at an office the same day if you go in person.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change through the MVA website is free and takes about 10 minutes, and you will receive your corrected license by mail in one to two weeks.
- You can change your address by mail by sending a signed form to the MVA, or in person at any MVA office without an appointment.
- You will need your current driver's license number, your new address, and a way to verify your identity (online and by mail both require this).
- If your license expires within 60 days, you must renew it instead of just changing the address, which requires a vision test and new photo.
Change your address online through the MVA website
Go to mva.maryland.gov and look for the "Change Address" option under the driver's license section. You will need your current Maryland driver's license number, your new address, and a way to verify your identity — usually a Social Security number or the last four digits of your SSN plus your date of birth.
The system will ask you to confirm your personal information and enter your new address. Once you submit, you are done. The MVA will mail your corrected license to your new address within one to two weeks. There is no fee for this change.
Change your address by mail
read or request the DL 43 form (Address Change for Driver's License) from the MVA website or call 410-787-7758 to have one mailed to you. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Do not use a printed signature — sign it by hand.
Mail the signed form to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of a document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. The MVA will process it and mail your corrected license within one to two weeks. There is no fee.
Change your address in person at an MVA office
Walk into any MVA office with your current driver's license and a document showing your new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage, or bank statement). You do not need an appointment. Tell the staff member you want to change your address on your license.
They will verify your identity, update your record, and take a new photo if your current license photo is more than eight years old. You will receive your corrected license when ready — you can walk out with it the same day. There is no fee for the address change itself, though some offices may charge a small fee if a new photo is taken.
What to do if your license expires soon
If your driver's license expires within 60 days, you cannot just change the address. You must renew your license instead, which includes a vision test and a new photo. You can renew online, by mail, or in person depending on your situation and how much time you have.
If you renew online or by mail, you will receive your new license with the updated address. If you renew in person, you get it when ready. Renewal fees vary — check the MVA website for the current cost based on how many years you are renewing for.
Documents you need for each method
| Method | What You Need | Time to Receive | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Driver's license number, new address, identity verification (SSN or last 4 digits + DOB) | 1–2 weeks by mail | Free |
| By mail | Signed DL 43 form, copy of document showing new address | 1–2 weeks | Free |
| In person | Current driver's license, document showing new address | Same day | Free (unless new photo required) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
No. You must resolve the suspension or revocation first. Contact the MVA to find out the status of your license and what steps you need to take to clear it before you can make any changes.
Do I need to change my address before I move, or can I do it after?
You can do it either way. Many people change it after they move and have proof of the new address. If you change it before moving, you will need a document showing your new address — a lease or mortgage works even if you have not moved in yet.
What if I move out of state?
You cannot change your Maryland address to an out-of-state address. If you move out of Maryland, you will need to get a driver's license from your new state. You can keep your Maryland license as a non-driver ID if you want, but it will show an out-of-state address and will not be valid for driving.
How long does it take to get my corrected license in the mail?
One to two weeks is typical. If you need it faster, go to an MVA office in person and you will receive it the same day. During busy periods, mail delivery may take slightly longer, but the MVA aims to send corrected licenses within two weeks.
What if I never receive my corrected license?
Wait two weeks from the date you submitted your change. If you still have not received it, call the MVA at 410-787-7758 to check the status. Have your driver's license number ready. If it was lost in the mail, the MVA can reissue it or you can pick one up in person at an office.