Where to change your Maryland driver's license address
You can change your address with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) in three ways: online through the MVA website, by mail, or in person at an MVA office. The online method is the fastest if your new address is within Maryland. If you are moving out of state or need to update other information at the same time, you may need to visit an office or mail in your request.
The MVA processes address changes differently depending on which method you choose. Online changes typically take effect within a few business days. Mail and in-person requests can take one to two weeks. If you need your updated license quickly — for example, to use it as proof of residence — plan accordingly.
Key Takeaways
- Maryland residents can change their driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office.
- Online address changes work only if you are staying in Maryland and your license is not suspended or expired.
- You will need your current driver's license number, Social Security number, and new address to make any change.
- If you move out of Maryland, you must visit an MVA office in person or mail in a request, because the online system does not process out-of-state moves.
Changing your address online through the MVA website
The MVA website allows Maryland residents to update their address without leaving home. Go to mva.maryland.gov, find the "Change Address" option under the driver's license section, and log in with your driver's license number and date of birth. You will then enter your new Maryland address and confirm the change.
Online changes have limits. Your license must not be expired, suspended, or revoked. Your new address must be in Maryland. If any of these conditions do not explore to you, use the mail or in-person method instead. The online system will tell you if your license is ineligible before you complete the request.
After you submit an online change, the MVA sends a confirmation email. Your address updates in their system within a few business days, but you will not receive a new physical license card in the mail unless you paid a fee to order one. Your current license remains valid with the old address printed on it until it expires or you renew it.
Mailing in an address change request
To change your address by mail, read the "Change of Address" form from the MVA website or request one by phone at 410-787-7758. Fill in your current driver's license number, your new address, and sign the form. Mail it to the address listed on the form — typically the MVA's central office in Glen Burnie, Maryland.
Include a copy of a document that shows your new address. The MVA accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. Do not send your original license; the form alone is enough.
Processing by mail takes one to two weeks from the date the MVA receives your request. You will not receive a new license card unless you request one and pay the renewal fee. Your address updates in the MVA system, but the physical card in your wallet still shows the old address until you renew.
Updating your address in person at an MVA office
Visit any MVA office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Bring the same documents accepted for mail requests: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail from the last 60 days. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day.
An MVA employee will verify your information and process the change on the spot. Your address updates when ready in their system. If you want a new physical license card with your updated address, you can order one at the office for a fee, though it is not required. The new card arrives by mail in one to two weeks.
Find the MVA office nearest you on the MVA website. Some offices have longer hours or shorter wait times than others. Visiting early in the morning or on weekday afternoons often means shorter lines than midday or Friday afternoons.
What documents you need for an address change
No matter which method you use, you will need proof that you live at your new address. The MVA accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. Lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, and bank or credit card statements also work.
Government mail counts too — a letter from the IRS, Social Security Administration, or a state or local agency with your name and address qualifies. If you do not have any of these documents yet, ask your landlord, utility company, or bank for a letter on their letterhead confirming your new address and move-in date.
You will also need your current driver's license number and your Social Security number. If you are mailing in a request, include a copy of your proof-of-address document. If you are visiting an office, bring the original or a copy.
Moving out of Maryland
If you are relocating to another state, you cannot use the online address change system. Instead, mail in a request or visit an MVA office in person. Tell the MVA employee or write on the form that you are moving out of state and provide your new out-of-state address.
Your Maryland driver's license remains valid after you move, but it will show an out-of-state address. You are not required to get a new state's license when ready, though most states require you to obtain one within 30 to 60 days of moving. Check your new state's motor vehicle agency website for their timeline and requirements.
If you want to keep your Maryland license and straightforward update the address, the MVA will process that request. If you later decide to switch to your new state's license, you can do that whenever you are ready.
How long the address change takes
The speed of your address change depends on the method you choose. Online changes are the fastest — your address updates in the MVA system within a few business days. Mail requests take one to two weeks from the date the MVA receives your envelope, so add time for postal delivery both ways. In-person changes happen when ready when you visit an office.
If you need your updated address to show on your physical license card, order a replacement card at the time of your change. Replacement cards arrive by mail in one to two weeks. If you do not order a replacement, your current card keeps the old address printed on it, even though your address is updated in the MVA system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get a new license card when I change my address?
No. Your address updates in the MVA system regardless of whether you order a new card. Your old card remains valid. You only need a new card if you want the updated address printed on the physical card itself. If you order one, there is a fee and it arrives by mail in one to two weeks.
What if my address change is rejected?
The MVA usually rejects changes if your proof-of-address document is too old (more than 60 days), does not show your name, or does not match the address you entered. Resubmit with a newer document or a document that clearly shows both your name and new address. Call 410-787-7758 if you are unsure whether a document will work.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
You cannot use the online system if your license is expired. You can mail in a request or visit an MVA office in person. If your license is also expiring soon, consider renewing it at the same time instead of just changing the address, since renewal requires a visit to an office anyway.
What happens if I move and do not update my address?
Your license remains valid, but it shows an outdated address. This can cause problems if you use it as proof of residence for banking, housing, or other purposes. Police may also question why your license does not match where you are living. It is simpler to update it when you move.
Can I change my address over the phone?
No. The MVA does not process address changes by phone. You must use the online system, mail in a request, or visit an office in person. You can call 410-787-7758 to ask questions about the process or to request a mailing form.