How to change your address with the Massachusetts RMV
You can change your address on your Massachusetts driver's license or ID card through the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) in three ways: online through the RMV website, by mail, or in person at an RMV office. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and you'll receive your updated card in the mail within two weeks. If you prefer not to go online, you can mail a form to the RMV or walk into any service center with proof of your new address.
Massachusetts requires you to notify the RMV of an address change within 30 days of moving. Driving with an outdated address on your license is not a violation that will get you a ticket, but it can complicate things if you're pulled over or need to renew your license. The RMV will use your current address on file for all correspondence, so updating it ensures you receive renewal notices and other important documents.
Key Takeaways
- The online method through mass.gov/rmv is the fastest way to change your address and takes about 10 minutes.
- You must provide proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
- If you change your address online or by mail, the RMV will mail you an updated card within two weeks at no charge.
- You have 30 days from the date you move to update your address with the RMV.
- In-person changes at an RMV service center are also free and take about 15 to 30 minutes depending on wait times.
Changing your address online
The RMV's online address change tool is available on the mass.gov website under the RMV section. You'll need your driver's license or ID number, your date of birth, and your Social Security number to log in. The system will ask you to enter your new address and confirm it, then you'll receive a confirmation number on screen.
After you submit your change online, the RMV will mail your updated card to your new address. You don't need to do anything else — no documents to mail in, no office visit required. The card typically arrives within 10 to 14 business days. Your address is updated in the RMV system when ready, even though the physical card takes time to arrive.
Changing your address by mail
To change your address by mail, read the Address Change form from mass.gov/rmv or call the RMV at 617-351-4500 to request one. Fill out the form with your current license or ID number, your new address, and sign it. Include a copy of proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will work.
Mail the completed form and proof to the RMV at the address listed on the form. Processing by mail takes longer than online — typically three to four weeks from the time the RMV receives your envelope. Send it certified mail if you want confirmation of delivery, though it's not required. Once processed, your updated card will be mailed to your new address.
Changing your address in person at an RMV office
You can walk into any RMV service center and change your address on the spot. Bring your current driver's license or ID card and one document proving your new address dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, insurance policy, or bank statement with your name and new address.
The in-person process is straightforward: you'll fill out a short form, show your documents to a staff member, and they'll update your record. If you want an updated card when ready, you can request an interim license or ID card for a fee (usually around $25 to $35), which you'll receive on the spot. Otherwise, the RMV will mail your updated card to your new address within two weeks at no charge. Wait times vary by location and time of day, so arriving early or checking the RMV website for current wait times can save you time.
What documents count 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 homeowner's insurance policy also work. Bank statements and credit card statements with your name and address are acceptable too.
Documents that do not count include mail from the government, voter registration cards, or documents that don't clearly show your address. If you've just moved and don't have a document yet, you can use a signed letter from your landlord or a notarized statement confirming your new address, though policies can vary slightly by RMV office. If you're unsure whether a document will work, call the RMV before you go in or mail it in.
Fees and timing for address changes
Changing your address online or by mail is free, and you'll receive your updated card in the mail at no charge. If you change your address in person and want an interim card on the same day, you'll pay a fee — typically $25 to $35 depending on whether you're updating a driver's license or ID card. If you wait for the mailed card, there's no fee.
Timing varies by method. Online changes are processed when ready, with your card arriving in 10 to 14 business days. Mail-in changes take three to four weeks from receipt. In-person changes result in either an when ready interim card (for a fee) or a mailed card within two weeks (free). Plan ahead if you need your updated address reflected on your physical card before a specific date.
What happens if you don't update your address
Driving with an outdated address on your license is not illegal and won't result in a traffic ticket. However, the RMV will continue to send renewal notices and other documents to your old address, which means you might miss important mail. If your license expires and you don't receive the renewal notice, you could accidentally let it lapse.
An outdated address can also cause confusion if you're pulled over — an officer may question why your license doesn't match where you're driving. More importantly, if you're involved in an accident or need to provide your license for any official purpose, the mismatch can create unnecessary complications. Updating your address is a straightforward step that prevents these problems down the line.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address online if my license is expired?
Yes, you can change your address online even if your license is expired. The online system doesn't check expiration status for address changes. However, if your license is expired and you want to drive, you'll need to renew it at the same time or separately through the RMV.
What if I move again before my new card arrives?
Contact the RMV before your card is mailed and provide your updated address. You can call 617-351-4500 or use the online system again to change it a second time. The RMV will then mail your card to the most recent address you provided.
Do I need an appointment to change my address in person?
No appointment is required for an address change at most RMV service centers. However, some locations offer appointment scheduling through mass.gov/rmv to reduce wait times. Check your local office's website to see if appointments are available in your area.
Can someone else change my address for me?
No, you must change your address yourself. The RMV requires your signature on any address change request, whether online, by mail, or in person. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized changes to your record.
How long does my address change take if I do it online?
Your address is updated in the RMV system when ready when you submit it online. Your physical updated card arrives in the mail within 10 to 14 business days. You can drive legally with your old card during this time — the address change is already in the system.