Where and how to change your Maryland driver's license address

You can change your address on a Maryland driver's license in person at any Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office, online through the MVA website if you have a REAL ID-compliant license, or by mail if you prefer not to visit in person. The in-person route is fastest — most offices process address changes while you wait. Online changes take one to two business days. Mail takes longer and requires you to send your physical license, so most people avoid it unless they cannot reach an office.

Maryland does not charge a fee for an address change alone. You will need to bring proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. You will also need your current driver's license and proof of identity if your name has changed since you got it.

If you move to Maryland from another state, you must get a Maryland license within 60 days. An address change on an out-of-state license does not satisfy this requirement — you need a new Maryland license entirely, which costs the standard license fee.

Key Takeaways

  • In-person address changes at any MVA office are free and take minutes, with no appointment needed at most locations.
  • Online address changes work only if your license is REAL ID-compliant; check your license for a gold star in the corner to confirm.
  • You must bring proof of your new address dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • If you moved to Maryland from another state, you must get a new Maryland license within 60 days, not just change your address.

In-person address changes at MVA offices

Walk into any MVA office with your current license, proof of your new address, and proof of identity. Tell the clerk you need an address change. Most offices have no wait or a short one, though times vary by location and time of day. The clerk will update your record on the spot, and your license remains valid with the old address printed on it until it expires — Maryland does not issue a new card for address-only changes.

Find your nearest MVA office on the Maryland MVA website. Some offices are busier than others; the MVA website shows wait times for many locations. If you want to avoid a trip, check whether your license qualifies for online change first.

Online address changes for REAL ID licenses

If your Maryland driver's license has a gold star in the top right corner, it is REAL ID-compliant and you can change your address online through the MVA website without visiting an office. Log in with your license number and date of birth, enter your new address, and upload a photo of your proof of address. The change takes one to two business days.

If your license does not have the gold star, it is not REAL ID-compliant and you cannot use the online system. You must visit an MVA office in person or mail your license to the MVA with a change-of-address form.

Mailing your license for an address change

You can mail your physical license to the MVA with a completed change-of-address form and proof of your new address. read the form from the MVA website or call the MVA to request one by mail. Include a copy of your proof of address — do not send originals. Mail everything to the address listed on the form.

This route takes two to three weeks because the MVA must receive your package, process it, and mail your license back. During that time you cannot use your license for identification. Most people avoid this method unless they cannot reach an office or have a strong reason to avoid in-person visits.

What happens to your old license after an address change

Your physical license card keeps the old address printed on it. The MVA's internal record updates when ready (or within one to two days for online changes), so police, banks, and government agencies see your new address when they look you up. You do not need to carry proof of the change — the updated record is what matters.

When your license expires, you will receive a renewal notice at your new address. If you do not receive it, check your address in the MVA system or call the MVA to confirm the change went through.

Address changes after moving to Maryland from another state

If you moved to Maryland and still have an out-of-state license, changing the address on that license does not satisfy Maryland's requirement. You must get a new Maryland license within 60 days of becoming a resident. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of your Maryland address, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of identity to any MVA office. The new license costs the standard fee, which varies depending on the type and term you choose.

You can keep your out-of-state license as a form of ID, but it is not valid for driving in Maryland after 60 days of residency. The MVA will not accept it as proof of identity for other transactions once you are a Maryland resident.

What to do if your address change does not show up

If you changed your address online or in person and it has been more than two business days, log into your MVA account or call the MVA to check the status. Provide your license number and date of birth. If the change is not in the system, the MVA can tell you whether your transaction was processed or lost.

If you mailed your license and have not received it back after three weeks, contact the MVA with your tracking information or the date you mailed it. The MVA can check whether your package arrived and remail your license if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment to change my address at an MVA office?

No. Most MVA offices accept walk-ins for address changes. Some offices offer appointment scheduling through the MVA website if you prefer to reserve a time slot, but appointments are not required. Check your local office's hours before you go.

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

Yes. An address change is separate from the status of your license. You can update your address even if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired. The MVA needs your current address on file for legal notices and correspondence.

What if my proof of address is in someone else's name?

The MVA accepts proof of address in your name or in a household member's name if you live at the same address. Bring a document showing both names, such as a joint utility bill or lease, or bring two documents — one in your name and one in the household member's name at the same address.

How long does my old address stay on my physical license card?

Until your license expires. The printed address on the card does not change, but the MVA's record updates when ready. When you renew your license, the new card will have your current address printed on it.

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

Yes. The MVA accepts other documents as proof of address, including bank statements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, insurance documents, or government mail addressed to you. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and new address.