Where to Change Your Address in Massachusetts

You can change your address on your Massachusetts driver's license at any RMV (Registry of Motor Vehicles) branch office in person, or online through the RMV website if you have a Real ID-compliant license. The online option is faster — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing — but it only works if your license is not expired and you are not changing your name at the same time.

If you need to go in person, bring your current license, proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. You do not need an appointment at most branches, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Early morning on a weekday is usually faster than afternoons or weekends.

There is no fee to change your address. If you want a new physical card with your updated address printed on it, that costs $50, but you can keep your current card and straightforward update the address in the RMV system for free.

Key Takeaways

  • Massachusetts lets you change your address online for free if your license is current and Real ID-compliant, without visiting an RMV office.
  • In-person changes at an RMV branch require your current license, proof of your new address dated within 60 days, and your Social Security number.
  • Updating your address in the system is free; a new card with the updated address printed on it costs $50.
  • You do not need an appointment at most RMV branches, but arriving early on a weekday usually means shorter waits.

How to Change Your Address Online

Go to mass.gov/rmv and log into your account using your driver's license number and date of birth. Click on "Change Address" and enter your new street address, city, state, and ZIP code. Review the information for accuracy before you submit — the system will not let you change it again for 30 days.

After you submit, the RMV sends a confirmation email within a few minutes. Your address is updated in the system right away, even though your physical card still shows the old address. If you want a new card printed with your new address, you can order one for $50 through the same online portal, and it will arrive by mail in about 7 to 10 business days.

Changing Your Address in Person at an RMV Branch

Find your nearest RMV branch on mass.gov/rmv and note its hours — some branches have limited schedules. Bring your current license, proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement), and be ready to provide your Social Security number verbally. The staff member will verify your information and update your address in the system on the spot.

If you want a new card printed with your updated address, tell the staff member before they process your request. You will pay $50 and receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while your new card is mailed to you. If you do not order a new card, your current license remains valid with the old address printed on it, but the RMV system will show your new address for mail and official records.

What Counts as Proof of Your New Address

The RMV accepts a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. A piece of mail from a government agency, insurance company, or financial institution also counts. The document must be an original or certified copy — a photo or screenshot is not acceptable.

If you just moved and do not yet have a document in your name at the new address, ask your landlord or the previous owner for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your move-in date and address. Some RMV branches will accept this, but call ahead to confirm before you visit.

When You Cannot Change Your Address Online

The online option does not work if your license is expired, if you are also changing your name, or if your license is not Real ID-compliant. You can check whether your license is Real ID-compliant by looking for a small star in the top right corner of your card. If there is no star, you must visit an RMV branch in person to change your address.

If your license is expired, you will need to renew it at the same time you change your address. Renewals require an in-person visit and cost $50 for a five-year license or $100 for a ten-year license. Bring the same proof of address documents you would use for an address change, plus your Social Security number.

How Long the Change Takes

Online changes are when ready — your address updates in the RMV system as soon as you submit the form. If you order a new card online, it arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. In-person changes at an RMV branch also update your address when ready, and a new card ordered in person arrives in the same timeframe.

Your old license remains valid for identification purposes even after your address is changed in the system. You do not have to carry a new card to prove your address has been updated — the RMV record is what matters for official purposes like vehicle registration, voting, or jury duty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to get a new card when I change my address?

No. Changing your address in the RMV system is free and happens whether or not you order a new card. Your old card stays valid for identification. A new card with your updated address printed on it costs $50 and is optional.

What if I moved out of state?

If you moved to another state, you will need to get a driver's license in that state instead. Massachusetts will not update your address if you no longer live there. Contact your new state's DMV or equivalent agency to learn about their licensing process.

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

Yes. A suspension or revocation does not prevent you from updating your address. However, you cannot renew your license or get a new card until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the RMV to find out the status of your license before you visit.

How do I change my address if I do not have a Social Security number?

You will need to visit an RMV branch in person and bring an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. Bring the same proof of address documents and your current license. Call your local RMV branch ahead of time to confirm they can process your request with an ITIN.

What if my proof of address document has my old name on it?

If you recently changed your name and your new address documents still show your old name, bring both your old and new name documents if you have them. If you only have documents with your old name, visit an RMV branch in person and explain the situation — staff can often work with you, but calling ahead to confirm is safer than showing up unprepared.