How to Change Your Address With the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles

You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at an RMV office

The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) lets you update your address through three routes: the online system at mass.gov/rmv, a paper form mailed to the RMV, or a visit to a local RMV branch. The fastest method is online if you have your license or ID card number and a valid email address. By mail takes roughly two to three weeks. In-person visits are when ready but require a trip to an office, and wait times vary by location and time of day.

Your address on file affects where the RMV sends renewal notices, where law enforcement can reach you, and what address appears on your physical license or ID card. Changing it does not require a new photo or a new card unless you request one — the RMV straightforward updates the record and your next renewal will reflect the new address.

Key Takeaways

The online method at mass.gov/rmv is the fastest route and requires only your license or ID number, date of birth, and email address.
If you mail a form, use the Address Change form (available on the RMV website) and send it to the RMV's Boston office; processing takes two to three weeks.
You do not need a new license or ID card when you change your address — the change takes effect on your existing card.
If you move out of state or your license or ID is lost or stolen, you cannot use the standard address change process and must visit an RMV office in person.

Changing your address online through mass.gov

Go to mass.gov/rmv and look for the "Change of Address" option in the online services menu. You will need your Massachusetts driver's license or ID card number, your date of birth, and access to an email address. The system will send a confirmation email to the address you provide — you must click the link in that email to complete the change.

The online system works for driver's licenses and ID cards but not for commercial licenses or learner's permits. If you hold a commercial license or are on a learner's permit, you must use the mail or in-person method. The change takes effect when ready once you confirm the email, and you will see the updated address the next time you log into your RMV account or the next time you renew.

Mailing a paper address change form

read the Address Change form from mass.gov/rmv or pick one up at any RMV office. Fill in your name, license or ID number, old address, and new address. Sign and date the form, then mail it to the RMV's main office in Boston. The mailing address is on the form itself.

Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks from the date the RMV receives your form. There is no tracking system for mailed forms, so if you need to know whether your change went through, you can call the RMV customer service line or log into your online account after two weeks to check. If you do not see the change reflected after three weeks, contact the RMV to confirm receipt.

Visiting an RMV office in person

Walk into any RMV branch with your current license or ID card and a piece of mail showing your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. Tell the clerk you need an address change. They will update your record on the spot, and the change is effective when ready.

Bring your license or ID card itself; you cannot change your address for someone else. If you have lost your card or it has been stolen, you cannot use the in-person address change process — you will need to report it lost or stolen and explore for a replacement, which is a separate transaction. Wait times at RMV offices vary widely; early morning visits and weekday mornings tend to be shorter than afternoons or Saturdays.

What happens to your physical card

Your current license or ID card remains valid after you change your address. The old address will still be printed on the card itself. When you renew your license or ID — which happens every five years for most drivers — the RMV will issue a new card with your updated address printed on it.

If you want a new card with the new address printed on it before your renewal date, you can request a replacement card at an RMV office. There is a fee for this service, and it is optional. Most people straightforward wait for their next renewal rather than pay for an early replacement.

Situations where you cannot use the standard address change process

If you have moved out of Massachusetts, you cannot change your address with the RMV — you must surrender your Massachusetts license and explore for a license in your new state. If your license or ID card has been lost or stolen, you cannot change the address on a missing card; you must report it lost or stolen and explore for a replacement.

If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), the online system does not work, and you must use the mail or in-person method. The same applies if you are on a learner's permit. If you are unsure whether your license type is may be able to access for online change, call the RMV or check mass.gov/rmv before attempting the online process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to see my new address in the RMV system?

Online changes take effect when ready once you confirm the email. By mail, allow two to three weeks. In-person changes are when ready. You can check your address in your online RMV account after the change is processed.

Do I need to bring any documents to change my address online?

No. The online process requires only your license or ID number, date of birth, and email address. You do not need to upload or mail any documents.

What if I moved and do not have a piece of mail at my new address yet?

Use the online method or mail the form instead. For in-person visits, you need a document dated within the last 60 days showing your new address. If you do not have one, wait until you receive a utility bill or other official mail, or use one of the other two methods.

Will my insurance company know about my address change?

No. The RMV does not notify your insurance company. You must contact your insurance company separately to update your address with them. Failing to do so could affect your coverage or rates.

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

Yes. A suspension or revocation does not prevent you from changing your address. The RMV will update your record regardless of your license status.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.