Where to Change Your Address

You can change your address on your Massachusetts driver's license at any RMV (Registry of Motor Vehicles) branch office, online through the MassRMV website, or by mail. The fastest route is usually online if you have a valid email address and access to your current license number. If you prefer in-person service, you can walk into any RMV location without an appointment, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

The online option takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You will need your license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The address change takes effect when ready in the RMV system, though your physical card in the mail will arrive within 7 to 10 business days.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your address online at mass.gov/rmv, by mail, or in person at any RMV branch without an appointment.
  • Online changes are free and take effect right away, though your new card arrives in 7 to 10 business days.
  • You will need your current license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to change your address online.
  • If you change your address in person, bring your current license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Massachusetts law requires you to notify the RMV of an address change within 30 days of moving.

Changing Your Address Online

Go to mass.gov/rmv and look for the "Change Your Address" option under the "Licenses" section. You will be asked to enter your license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will pull up your current information and ask you to confirm it before you enter your new address.

Type in your new street address, city, state, and ZIP code exactly as you want it to appear on your license. Double-check for spelling and numbers before you submit. Once you confirm, the change is recorded in the RMV database when ready. You will receive a confirmation email, and your new license card will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days.

Changing Your Address In Person at an RMV Branch

Walk into any RMV branch office with your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and new address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

Tell the clerk you need to change your address. They will verify your identity, update your information in the system, and issue you a new license card on the spot. There is no fee for an address change. Your new card is ready to use when ready, though the old one becomes invalid once the new one is issued.

Changing Your Address by Mail

Print the Address Change form from mass.gov/rmv (form DL 34). Fill in your current license number, name, date of birth, and new address. Include a copy of one document that proves your new address, dated within the last 60 days. Mail the form and proof to the RMV address listed on the form.

Processing by mail takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date the RMV receives your envelope. You will not receive a confirmation that your change was processed, so check your address in the RMV system online after three weeks. Your new license card will arrive separately in the mail.

What Counts as Proof of Your New Address

The RMV 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. A lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement also works. Government mail such as a tax return or voter registration card is acceptable if it shows your new address.

The document must be an original or certified copy—a photo of it is not enough if you are mailing it in. If you are changing your address in person, you can show the original or a copy. Do not send your original documents by mail; the RMV will not return them.

Timeline and When Your New Card Arrives

If you change your address online, the change takes effect when ready in the RMV system. Your new physical card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. If you change your address in person at an RMV branch, you receive your new card on the spot and can use it right away. If you mail in your change, processing takes 2 to 3 weeks, and your new card arrives separately after that.

During the time you are waiting for your new card, your old license is still valid for identification purposes. Once your new card arrives, the old one is no longer valid and should be destroyed.

What Happens If You Do Not Update Your Address

Massachusetts law requires you to notify the RMV of an address change within 30 days of moving. If you do not update your address and you are stopped by police, you can be cited for failing to notify the RMV. The fine is not automatic, but it is a violation the officer can choose to issue.

More practically, mail from the RMV—including renewal notices, court documents, and insurance correspondence—will go to your old address and you may miss important important date. If your license expires and you do not receive the renewal notice, you could end up driving with an expired license without realizing it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay to change my address on my license?

No, changing your address is free. There is no fee whether you do it online, in person, or by mail. You will receive a new license card at no cost.

Can I use an email or phone bill as proof of my new address?

An email bill works only if it is printed and shows your name and address. A phone bill works if it is an original paper statement from your provider. Digital-only bills that you cannot print may not be accepted, so bring a physical document if possible.

What if I moved but do not have a lease or utility bill yet?

If you have just moved and do not yet have a document in your name at the new address, bring a lease agreement, mortgage papers, or a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead stating your new address and move-in date. The RMV may also accept a notarized statement of residency.

Can someone else change my address for me?

No, you must change your address yourself. If you are changing it in person, you must be present with your license and proof of address. Online and by mail, you must provide your own license number and personal information.

What if my new address is in a different state?

If you have moved out of Massachusetts, you should get a driver's license from your new state. You can still update your Massachusetts address in the RMV system, but you will eventually need to switch to your new state's license. Check your new state's DMV or RMV website for their requirements.