Where and how to report your address change in Massachusetts

You can change your address on your Massachusetts driver's license through the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) in three ways: online through the RMV website, by mail, or in person at an RMV branch. The online method is fastest and requires no documents — you log in with your license number and date of birth, confirm your new address, and the change takes effect when ready for most purposes. If you prefer mail or in-person, you'll need to bring or send proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.

Massachusetts law requires you to report an address change within 10 days of moving. The state does not automatically update your address when you move, so the burden is on you to initiate the change. Failing to report a change can result in fines, and it may complicate vehicle registration renewals, insurance claims, or traffic citations if the RMV has an outdated address on file.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method through mass.gov/rmv is the fastest option and requires no documents or in-person visit.
  • You must report your address change within 10 days of moving under Massachusetts law.
  • In-person changes at an RMV branch require a document proving your new address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days.
  • Mail-in changes take longer but work if you send a completed form and proof of address to the RMV.

Changing your address online through the RMV website

The RMV's online address change tool is available at mass.gov/rmv under the "Manage Your License" section. You will need your Massachusetts driver's license number, date of birth, and a valid email address. Log in, select the option to update your address, enter your new street address and ZIP code, and review the information for accuracy before submitting.

Once you submit online, the change is processed when ready and your license record is updated in the RMV system. You do not receive a new physical license card — your current card remains valid with the old address printed on it, but the RMV's records will show your new address. If you want a new card with your updated address printed on it, you can order a replacement card through the same online system for a fee, though this is optional and not required by law.

Changing your address in person at an RMV branch

To change your address at an RMV service center, bring your current Massachusetts driver's license and one document that proves your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail (such as a tax bill or voter registration card) dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and your new address.

You do not need an appointment for an address change at most RMV branches, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Check the RMV website for your nearest branch and its current wait times before you go. The RMV staff will update your address on the spot, and your record will be changed when ready. As with the online method, you will not receive a new physical card unless you request and pay for a replacement.

Changing your address by mail

To change your address by mail, read the RMV's address change form from mass.gov/rmv or request one by calling the RMV at 857-368-8000. Fill out the form with your current license number, name, and new address. Include a copy of a document proving your new address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days works. Mail the completed form and proof of address to the RMV's mailing address, which is listed on the form itself.

Mail-in changes typically take two to three weeks to process. Your address will be updated in the RMV system, but you will not receive confirmation in writing unless you include a self-addressed stamped envelope with your submission. If you need to confirm the change was received, you can call the RMV or check your record online after two weeks.

What happens if you do not report your address change

Massachusetts law requires you to notify the RMV of an address change within 10 days. If you do not, you may face a fine of up to $100. More practically, an outdated address can cause problems: vehicle registration renewal notices may not reach you on time, traffic citations or court summonses could be sent to your old address, and insurance companies may deny claims if they discover your address was not current with the RMV.

If you receive a citation or notice at your old address because the RMV had outdated information, you may be able to explain the situation to the court or the issuing agency, but it is simpler to update your address promptly. Some employers, landlords, and lenders also check RMV records as part of background checks, so an outdated address can create confusion or delays in those processes.

Replacing your physical license card with your new address

Updating your address in the RMV system does not automatically give you a new physical license card. Your current card will still show your old address, but the RMV's records will reflect your new one. For most purposes — traffic stops, age verification, proof of residency — the RMV's records are what matter, not what is printed on the card itself.

If you want a new card with your updated address printed on it, you can order a replacement through the RMV's online system or request one in person at a branch. There is a fee for a replacement card (typically around $35 to $50, though this varies). You are not required to get a replacement card unless your license is expiring soon or you want the card itself to reflect your current address for personal reasons.

Updating your address for vehicle registration and insurance

Changing your address on your driver's license does not automatically update your vehicle registration or insurance. You must contact your insurance company separately to update your address with them — most insurers allow you to do this online, by phone, or through their mobile app. Notify them within a few days of moving to avoid coverage gaps or policy cancellations.

Your vehicle registration will renew based on the address the RMV has on file for you, so updating your license address first ensures renewal notices reach you. If you have already registered a vehicle at your old address, you can update the registration address through the RMV's online system or at a branch when you renew. Some people update both their license and registration address at the same time to keep everything in sync.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to change my address online?

The online change is processed when ready when you submit it. Your address is updated in the RMV system right away, though it may take a few hours for the change to appear if you check your record again.

Do I need to bring my old license to change my address?

For in-person changes, yes — bring your current license. For online changes, you only need your license number and date of birth. For mail-in changes, you do not need to send the physical card, just a copy of proof of address.

What counts as proof of address for the RMV?

The RMV accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, and government mail (tax bills, voter registration cards) dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and your new address.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

Yes. You can update your address even if your license is expired. However, if your license is expiring soon, you may want to renew it at the same time to avoid a second trip or transaction.

Will I get a new physical card if I change my address online?

No. Your current card remains valid and will not be replaced unless you request a replacement card and pay the associated fee. The RMV's records will show your new address regardless of what is printed on your card.