Change your address online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office

Maryland allows you to update your address on your driver's license or ID card through three routes: the online system, mail, or a visit to an MVA office. The fastest method is online through the Maryland MVA website if you have a valid email address and your current license number. If you prefer not to use the online system, you can mail a form or go to a local MVA office — both take longer but require no technology.

You do not need to renew your license to change your address. The new address will be printed on your card at your next renewal, but your current license remains valid with the old address on it. However, Maryland law requires you to report an address change within 60 days of moving.

Key Takeaways

  • The Maryland MVA online system is the fastest way to change your address and takes minutes if you have your license number and email.
  • You must report your address change within 60 days of moving under Maryland law, even though your old license stays valid.
  • If you mail your change, send it to the MVA address listed on their website and allow two to three weeks for processing.
  • Visiting an MVA office in person requires no forms in advance — bring your current license and proof of your new address.
  • Your new address will print on your card only at your next renewal; your current license remains valid with the old address.

Change your address online through the Maryland MVA website

Go to the Maryland MVA website and look for the address change option in the online services section. You will need your current driver's license or ID number, your email address, and access to the email account you provide. The system will send you a confirmation email — you must click the link in that email to complete the change.

This method works only if your license is not expired and you have not changed your name. If either applies to you, use the mail or in-person method instead. The online system processes your change when ready, and you will see the update reflected in MVA records right away.

Mail your address change to the MVA

read the address change form from the Maryland MVA website or call the MVA at 410-787-7758 to request one by mail. Fill out the form with your current license number, your old address, and your new address. Include a copy of a document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days all work.

Mail the form and your proof of address to the address listed on the MVA website. Do not send your actual license card. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the MVA receives your envelope. You can call the MVA to confirm they received your form, but there is no tracking number for mail submissions.

Update your address in person at an MVA office

Bring your current driver's license or ID card and one document showing your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. You do not need to fill out a form in advance; the MVA staff will handle the paperwork at the office.

Walk-ins are accepted at most MVA offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Check the MVA website for your nearest office and its hours before you go. The address change is processed on the spot, and you leave with your updated information in the system.

What counts as proof of your new address

Maryland accepts these documents as proof of address: a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or phone), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, a government check or tax document, or a letter from a government agency. The document must show your name and your new address and be dated within the last 60 days.

If you do not have any of these documents yet — for example, you just moved and the utilities are not in your name — call the MVA at 410-787-7758 to ask what alternatives they will accept. Some offices may accept a signed letter from your landlord or a utility company confirmation email if you explain your situation.

The 60-day important date and what happens if you miss it

Maryland law requires you to report your address change within 60 days of moving. This is a legal requirement, not just a suggestion. If you are pulled over or stopped by police and your address on your license does not match where you actually live, you can be cited for failing to report the change.

The citation is a misdemeanor in Maryland, though it is rarely enforced unless you are already stopped for another reason. The safest approach is to report your change as soon as you have a document showing your new address — do not wait until day 59.

When your new address appears on your physical card

Your address change takes effect in the MVA system when ready, whether you change it online, by mail, or in person. However, the new address will not print on your physical driver's license or ID card until you renew it. Your current card remains valid with the old address on it.

When you renew your license — typically every five years for a standard license — you will receive a new card with your current address printed on it. Until then, your old card is still legal to use. If you need a card with your new address printed on it before your renewal date, you would have to pay for an early replacement, which costs the same as a renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address if I moved out of state?

No. If you moved out of Maryland, you do not need to update your Maryland license. However, you should obtain a driver's license or ID from your new state. Your Maryland license remains valid for identification purposes, but driving with an out-of-state address on your license while living in another state can cause problems with insurance or law enforcement.

What if I do not have any proof of my new address yet?

Call the MVA at 410-787-7758 and explain your situation. Some offices accept alternative documents like a signed letter from your landlord, a utility company confirmation email, or a lease that has not yet been printed. Having something on file is better than waiting 60 days for a utility bill.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

No. You must renew your license first if it is expired. You can renew and change your address at the same time by visiting an MVA office or mailing both requests together, but the online system will not let you change your address on an expired license.

How long does it take to change my address online?

The online process takes about five minutes. You enter your information, confirm your email, and click the link in the confirmation email the MVA sends you. The change is active in the system when ready after you confirm.

Will my insurance company know about my address change?

No. The MVA does not automatically notify your insurance company. You must contact your insurance company separately and tell them about your move. Failing to update your address with your insurer can affect your coverage or rates.