You can change your Maryland driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office

Maryland offers three routes to update your address on your driver's license or ID card. The fastest is the online method through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) website, which takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you prefer mail or need to change other information at the same time, you can submit a form by post. In-person visits at an MVA office are also available if you want the change processed when ready or need to renew your license at the same time.

The method you choose depends on what information you're changing and whether your license is still valid. If you're only updating your address and your license hasn't expired, the online option is the simplest. If your license is expiring soon or you need to change your name or other details, you may need to renew instead of just updating your address.

Key Takeaways

  • Maryland's online address change tool is free and takes about 10 minutes, and you'll receive a confirmation email when ready.
  • You'll need your current driver's license or ID number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to change your address online.
  • If you prefer mail, send form DL-43 (process for Duplicate License/ID Card) with proof of your new address to the MVA address listed on the form.
  • In-person changes at an MVA office require your current license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Address changes made online or by mail typically take 7 to 10 business days; in-person changes are processed the same day.

Changing your address online through the MVA website

Visit the Maryland MVA website and select the "Change Address" option under the online services menu. You will need your current driver's license or ID number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Enter your new address exactly as it should appear on your license, including apartment or unit numbers if applicable.

After you submit the form, you'll receive a confirmation email with a reference number. Keep this number in case you need to follow up. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to pay a fee for an address-only change.

The online system works only if your license is currently valid and you're changing your address alone. If your license has expired, you'll need to renew it instead, which requires an in-person visit or a different process.

Mailing a form to the MVA

read or request form DL-43 (process for Duplicate License/ID Card) from the MVA website. Complete the form with your current information and your new address. You must also include proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

Mail the completed form and proof of address to the MVA address listed on the form. Include a check or money order for $5 if you want a duplicate card mailed to you; address changes alone are free, but the MVA typically issues a new card when you change your address. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after the MVA receives your form.

Keep a copy of everything you send for your records. If you don't receive your updated license within two weeks, contact the MVA with your reference number or the date you mailed the form.

Changing your address in person at an MVA office

Visit any MVA office with your current driver's license or ID card and proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. Bring the original document or a certified copy.

Tell the MVA staff member that you want to change your address. They will update your record on the spot and issue a new license or ID card with your new address. You can take the new card with you when ready. There is no fee for an address-only change.

MVA office hours and wait times vary by location. Check the MVA website for the office nearest you and its hours before you go. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require an appointment. Arriving early in the day or on weekday mornings typically means shorter waits.

What counts as proof of 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 such as tax documents or voter registration cards may be accepted depending on the office.

If you don't have a document in your name at your new address yet, ask the MVA what alternatives they accept. Some offices will take a notarized statement from a landlord or a letter from a shelter or transitional housing program. Call the MVA before you visit to confirm what they will accept in your situation.

Do not bring originals of important documents like mortgage papers or bank statements unless you're prepared to leave them with the MVA. Ask whether they need the original or a copy.

Changing your address when your license is expiring soon

If your license expires within the next few months, you may want to renew it at the same time you change your address. This saves you a trip and a second mailing. Renewal requires an in-person visit to an MVA office and costs $70 for a standard license valid for eight years.

Bring your current license, proof of your new address, and proof of your identity and Social Security number. You will also need to pass a vision test at the office. The MVA will issue your renewed license with your new address the same day.

If your license is not expiring soon, you can change your address now and renew later when it's due. There's no advantage to renewing early just to update your address.

Timeline and what to expect after you submit your change

Online and mail submissions take 7 to 10 business days from the time the MVA processes your request. You'll receive your updated license by mail at your new address. In-person changes are completed the same day, and you leave the office with your new card.

If you need to use your license before the updated one arrives, your current license is still valid even though it shows your old address. Police and other officials understand that address changes take time to process. If you're concerned, you can bring your confirmation email or reference number as proof that you've submitted a change.

If you don't receive your updated license within 10 business days of submitting online or by mail, contact the MVA with your reference number. If you submitted by mail and don't have a reference number, have your driver's license number and date of birth ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address on my license if I move?

Maryland law requires you to notify the MVA of a change of address within 30 days of moving. You won't face a penalty for a few days' delay, but updating promptly ensures your license matches your actual residence and that you receive important mail from the MVA at the right place.

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

You can update your address, but the MVA will still show the suspension or revocation status on your record. Contact the MVA about the reason for the suspension to understand what steps you need to take before you can drive legally again.

What if I moved out of state but still have a Maryland license?

If you've moved permanently to another state, you should obtain a driver's license from that state. If you're temporarily out of state but keeping your Maryland license, you can still change your address online or by mail to your out-of-state address. The MVA will mail your updated license there.

Can I change my address online if I don't remember my license number?

The online system requires your license number. If you don't have it, use the mail or in-person method instead. You can also call the MVA to request your license number before you attempt the online change.

Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance?

Changing your address with the MVA does not affect your driving record or violations. Your insurance company has your address separately; notify them directly of a move so your policy stays current and your rates reflect your correct location.