How to Change Your Address on a Maryland Driver's License

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 without getting a new license, as long as you are not moving out of state. The fastest route is the online system if you have a valid email address and your current license number. If you cannot use the online option, you can mail in a form or visit a Motor Vehicle Administration office in person. The address change itself is free — you only pay if you need a replacement card.

Your address must match what the MVA has on file before you can renew your license, register a vehicle, or update your vehicle registration. If you move and do not update within a certain timeframe, you may face fines when you renew. Starting the process now prevents problems later.

Key Takeaways

The online address change takes about 10 minutes and requires your driver's license number, email address, and the new address you want on file.
If you mail in the change, use Form DL-43 and include a piece of mail showing your new address; processing takes two to three weeks.
You can walk into any MVA office with your license and proof of your new address to change it in person on the same day.
An address change does not require you to renew your license early or pay a fee unless you want a new physical card mailed to you.

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 your current Maryland driver's license number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will ask you to create or log into an MVA account.

Enter your new address exactly as you want it to appear on your record. Double-check the spelling of your street name and make sure the ZIP code is correct — the MVA uses this address for all future correspondence. Once you submit, you will receive a confirmation email. Your address change takes effect when ready in the MVA system, though any physical mail from the MVA will go to your new address starting a few days later.

Mailing in a change-of-address form

read or request Form DL-43 from the MVA website or pick one up at any MVA office. Fill in your name, license number, and new address. You must also include a piece of mail dated within the last 60 days that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government letter all work. Do not send your actual license.

Mail the form and your proof of address to the address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks. You will not receive a confirmation letter unless something is wrong with your submission. If you do not hear back within four weeks, call the MVA at 410-787-7758 to confirm the change went through.

Changing your address in person at an MVA office

Bring your current Maryland driver's license and one piece of mail or document showing your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail. The document must show your name and new address and be dated within the last 60 days.

Walk into any MVA office during business hours — no appointment is needed for an address change. Tell the staff member you want to update your address. They will verify your identity, check your proof of address, and update your record on the spot. You can leave when ready; your address change is complete and active in the system right away.

What counts as proof of your new address

The MVA accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show both your name and your new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. Other acceptable documents include a lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, bank or credit card statement, insurance policy, or any government mail addressed to you at the new address.

The document must be an original or certified copy — a photo of it usually will not work in person, though the online system does not require physical proof. If you are moving and have not yet received mail at your new address, ask your landlord, property manager, or mortgage company for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your move-in date and new address.

Timeline and what happens after you change your address

An online change takes effect when ready. A mailed form takes two to three weeks. An in-person change at an MVA office is complete the same day. Once your address is updated, all future mail from the MVA — renewal notices, vehicle registration documents, and correspondence — will go to your new address.

Your physical license card will still show your old address until you renew your license. You do not need to get a new card just because you moved. When your license comes up for renewal, the new card will print with your current address on file. If you want a new card with the updated address before your renewal date, you can request one at any MVA office for a replacement fee.

If you are moving out of state

You cannot straightforward change the address on your Maryland license if you are relocating to another state. You will need to get a driver's license in your new state instead. Before you leave Maryland, you can let the MVA know your address is changing out of state, but your Maryland license will remain valid until its expiration date — you just cannot renew it by mail or online once you move.

When you arrive in your new state, visit that state's equivalent of the MVA to get a new license. Most states require you to surrender your out-of-state license and pass a vision test; some require a written test as well. Keep your Maryland license until you have the new one in hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address before my license expires?

No, but you must update it before you renew. If you renew your license without updating your address first, the new card will print with the old address. You can change your address anytime — before, during, or after a move — and it takes effect when ready in the MVA system.

What if I do not have a recent utility bill or lease?

You can use any document dated within 60 days that shows your name and new address: a bank statement, insurance policy, government mail, property tax bill, or a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead. If nothing is available yet, wait until you receive mail at your new address, then submit your change.

Will I get a new license card with my new address on it?

Not unless you request one. Your current card will still show your old address, but the MVA's system will have your new address on file. When you renew your license at its expiration date, the new card will print with your current address. You can pay a replacement fee to get a new card with the updated address before then if you want one sooner.

How long does it take to change my address online?

The online change takes about 10 minutes to complete and takes effect when ready. You will receive a confirmation email. There is no processing time — your address is updated in the MVA system as soon as you submit the form.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended or expired?

Yes. You can change your address on a suspended or expired license. However, if your license is expired, you will need to renew it before you can legally drive. An address change does not renew your license — it only updates where the MVA has on file.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.