Where to change your Maryland driver's license address

You can change your address on a Maryland driver's license in three ways: online through the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) website, by mail, or in person at an MVA office. The online method is fastest and costs nothing. You'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address.

If you prefer not to go online, you can mail a completed form to the MVA or walk into any MVA branch. In-person visits take about 30 minutes on average, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Mail typically takes 7 to 10 business days after the MVA receives your request.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change through the MVA website is free and takes about five minutes, with no appointment needed.
  • You must have your current Maryland driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to change your address online.
  • If you mail your request, use form DL-43 and include a copy of your license; processing takes one to two weeks.
  • In-person changes at an MVA office require no appointment and cost nothing, but you must bring your current license and proof of your new address.
  • Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days; your old license remains valid until the new one arrives.

Changing your address online through the MVA website

Go to mva.maryland.gov and look for the "Online Services" section. Click on "Change Address" or "Update Your Information." You'll be asked to enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The system will verify your identity using these details.

Once you submit the form, you'll receive a confirmation number on screen. Write this down or take a screenshot — you may need it if you have questions about your request. The MVA will mail your updated license to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. Your current license remains valid during this time, so you can use it when ready.

If the online system tells you that you're ineligible to change your address online, it usually means your license is expired, suspended, or revoked. In that case, you'll need to visit an MVA office or mail your request instead.

Mailing your address change to the MVA

read or print form DL-43 from the MVA website. This is the "process for Maryland Driver's License or Permit" form, but you only need to fill in the address section. Include a photocopy of both sides of your current driver's license and mail everything to the address listed on the form.

The MVA processes mail requests in the order they arrive. Expect one to two weeks for processing, plus mail delivery time. Send your envelope by regular mail — certified mail is not required, but some people use it for peace of mind. Keep a copy of what you send for your records.

Do not send cash. If for some reason a fee applies to your request (which is rare for address changes), the MVA will contact you. Your old license stays valid while your new one is being made.

Changing your address in person at an MVA office

Walk into any MVA branch with your current driver's license and a document showing your new address. Acceptable proof of address includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and new address.

Tell the staff member at the counter that you need an address change. They will update your information on the spot and send your new license to your new address. The whole process takes 5 to 10 minutes at the counter. You'll receive a receipt showing your new address has been recorded.

No appointment is needed for an address change. However, MVA offices are busiest on weekday mornings and early afternoons. If you want to avoid a wait, try visiting on a weekday after 3 p.m. or on a Saturday morning. Check the MVA website for your nearest office location and hours.

What proof of address the MVA will accept

The MVA accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. These include utility bills (electric, gas, water, or phone), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, bank or credit card statements, and insurance policies. A letter from your landlord or employer on official letterhead also works if it includes your name, new address, and the date.

If you don't have any of these documents yet, you can still change your address online or by mail without proof — the MVA doesn't require it for online or mail requests. You only need proof of address if you're changing it in person at an MVA office.

What happens after you submit your address change

The MVA will mail your new license to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. Your old license remains valid and can be used for identification until your new one arrives. You do not need to return your old license.

If your new license doesn't arrive within two weeks, contact the MVA at 410-787-7758 (Baltimore area) or 1-888-769-0396 (toll-free). Have your confirmation number ready if you changed your address online. The MVA can check the status of your new license and resend it if needed.

Once your new license arrives, destroy your old one or keep it as a personal record — the MVA has no requirement for what you do with it. Your new license is valid for the same expiration date as your old one.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Address changes do not require an appointment at any MVA branch. Walk in during business hours with your current license and proof of your new address. Wait times vary, but the transaction itself takes only a few minutes.

What if I moved but haven't received my new license yet?

Your old license is still valid for identification until your new one arrives. If you need to use your license before it shows up, the receipt you received at the MVA office or your online confirmation number proves you've requested the change. Most businesses and law enforcement will accept this as evidence of your address update.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

You cannot change your address online if your license is expired. You'll need to renew your license at the same time, which requires an in-person visit or a mail-in renewal process. Contact the MVA to find out whether you can renew and change your address together by mail.

Is there a fee to change my address on my Maryland driver's license?

No. Changing your address is free whether you do it online, by mail, or in person. The MVA does not charge a fee for address updates on an active, valid license.

How do I know if my address change went through?

If you changed your address online, you received a confirmation number on screen. If you changed it in person, you received a receipt. If you mailed your request, keep a copy of what you sent. You can also call the MVA at 410-787-7758 or 1-888-769-0396 to confirm your new address is in the system.