What you need to do to update your address

You can change your address on your Massachusetts driver's license in person at any RMV (Registry of Motor Vehicles) office, or online through the Massachusetts RMV website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route works for everyone. The online route is faster but only available if your license is not expired, suspended, or revoked, and if you have not changed your address within the past 30 days.

There is no fee to change your address. The process itself takes minutes once you are at the counter or have submitted your online request. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days if you go in person, or within the same timeframe if you use the online system.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your address online through mass.gov/rmv if your license is current and you have not changed your address in the past 30 days.
  • In-person changes at any RMV office work for all license holders and require proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • There is no charge to update your address, and your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
  • You must bring your current license and one document showing your new address if you go in person.

Changing your address online

Visit mass.gov/rmv and look for the "Change Address" option in the online services section. You will need your current Massachusetts driver's license number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Enter your new address exactly as it appears on your proof of residency document.

After you submit the form, you will receive a confirmation email. Your new license will be mailed to your new address. This method is the fastest if you are may be able to access, because you do not have to wait for an RMV appointment or travel to an office.

Changing your address in person at an RMV office

Bring your current Massachusetts driver's license and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or property tax bill. The document must show your name and your new address.

You do not need an appointment at most RMV locations, but wait times vary by office and time of day. Check mass.gov/rmv for the current wait time at your nearest office before you go. Tell the clerk you want to change your address. They will update your record on the spot, and your new license will be mailed within 7 to 10 business days.

What happens to your old license

You do not need to return your old license. Once your new license arrives, you can destroy the old one or keep it for your records. Your old license is no longer valid for identification or driving purposes once the new one is issued.

If you move before your new license arrives, you can update your address again online or in person. However, if you have already changed your address within the past 30 days, you must go in person to make another change.

If your license is expired or suspended

You cannot use the online method to change your address if your license is expired, suspended, or revoked. You must go to an RMV office in person. Bring your current (expired) license, proof of your new address, and any documents required to renew or restore your license status.

If your license is expired, you may want to renew it at the same time you change your address. This saves you a trip. Ask the clerk whether you can handle both transactions together.

Finding an RMV office near you

Massachusetts has RMV service centers in most cities and towns. Go to mass.gov/rmv and use the office locator to find the one closest to you. The website shows hours, current wait times, and whether the office handles address changes (most do).

Some smaller offices have limited hours or may close for lunch. Call ahead if you are traveling more than 20 minutes to confirm the office is open and to ask about current wait times.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Massachusetts law requires you to notify the RMV of a change of address within 30 days of moving. You are not required to get a new license card, but your address record must be updated. Changing your address online or in person fulfills this requirement.

What if I do not have a utility bill or lease to prove my new address?

A bank statement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or insurance policy with your name and new address will work. If you have none of these, call your local RMV office to ask what other documents they accept. Some offices may accept a signed letter from a landlord or property manager.

Can I change my address if I am moving out of state?

If you are moving out of Massachusetts, you do not need to update your Massachusetts address. You should instead get a driver's license in your new state. Once you have a license from another state, your Massachusetts license becomes invalid.

How long does it take to receive my new license in the mail?

Your new license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days after you change your address, whether you do it online or in person. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact the RMV to check the status.

Can I use my old license while I wait for the new one?

Yes. Your old license remains valid for driving and identification until your new license arrives. Once the new license is issued, the old one is no longer valid.