The fastest way to change your address in Massachusetts
You can change your address on your Massachusetts driver's license or ID card online through the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) website, by mail, or in person at an RMV office. The online method is quickest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The change shows up in the RMV system when ready, though your physical card still shows the old address until it expires and you renew it.
If you prefer not to use the online system, you can mail a completed form to the RMV or visit a service center in person. Both methods take longer — mail typically takes two to three weeks, and in-person visits require you to bring documents and wait for an appointment. Most people choose the online route because it's free, when ready, and requires no documents or travel.
Key Takeaways
- The RMV's online address change system is free and takes about 10 minutes, with the change recorded when ready in the state system.
- You need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address to change online.
- Your physical license card will still show your old address until you renew it, but your record in the RMV system updates right away.
- If you cannot use the online system, you can mail form DL 43 to the RMV or visit a service center in person with your license and proof of your new address.
Changing your address online through the RMV website
Go to mass.gov/rmv and look for the "Change Address" option under the "Online Services" section. You'll be asked to enter your license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The system will verify your identity using this information. Once you submit, you'll receive a confirmation number on screen — save or print this for your records.
The change takes effect when ready in the RMV database. This means your address is updated for insurance companies, law enforcement, and voter registration purposes. However, the physical card in your wallet still shows your old address. You do not need to order a new card unless yours is damaged, lost, or expiring soon. When you renew your license at the end of its validity period, you'll receive a card with your current address printed on it.
Mailing your address change to the RMV
If you prefer to mail your change, read and print form DL 43 from the RMV website or request it by calling the RMV at 617-351-4500. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Mail it to the Registry of Motor Vehicles, P.O. Box 369, Boston, MA 02125.
Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks. You do not need to include any documents — your signature and license number are enough for the RMV to locate and update your record. Like the online method, your physical card will not change until renewal, but your address in the state system updates once the form is processed.
Changing your address in person at an RMV service center
You can visit any RMV service center to change your address. Bring your current driver's license or ID card and one document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days all work. You do not need an appointment for an address change, but wait times vary by location and time of day.
The staff member will update your record on the spot, and you'll receive a receipt confirming the change. Like the other methods, your physical card keeps the old address until renewal. Service centers are located in Boston, Brockton, Fall River, Fitchburg, Greenfield, Lawrence, Leominster, New Bedford, Pittsfield, Plymouth, Salem, Springfield, and Worcester. Check mass.gov/rmv for hours and current wait times before you go.
What happens to your physical license card
Your driver's license or ID card will continue to show your old address even after you change it in the RMV system. This is normal and does not cause problems — police officers, banks, and other agencies can see your current address when they look up your record. You do not need to carry a separate document proving the change.
Your physical card will be reprinted with your new address only when you renew your license. In Massachusetts, licenses are valid for five years. If your card is damaged, lost, or stolen before then, you can order a replacement card with your updated address by visiting an RMV service center or calling 617-351-4500. There is a fee for a replacement card — check the RMV website for the current amount.
Changing your address if you moved out of state
If you moved to another state, you should get a driver's license in your new state rather than keeping your Massachusetts license. Most states require you to get a new license within 30 to 60 days of moving, though the exact timeline varies. You'll need to surrender your Massachusetts license when you explore for the new one.
If you're keeping your Massachusetts address for work or other reasons and only temporarily living elsewhere, you can still change your address on your Massachusetts license using any of the three methods above. However, if you've established residency in another state, that state's DMV will expect you to hold a license from that state instead.
Documents you might need for address changes
For online and mail changes, you need only your license number and Social Security number — no documents required. For in-person changes, bring your current license and one proof of your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance bill, or government mail showing your name and new address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.
If your name has also changed since you got your license, you'll need to update that separately. Bring your license, proof of the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and proof of your new address if you're changing both at once. You can do this in person at any service center or by mail using form DL 43 with the additional documents attached.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change my address if I'm only moving temporarily?
If you're moving for a few months or less, you can keep your Massachusetts address. If you're moving for longer than six months or establishing residency in another state, you should update your address or get a license in your new state. Check your new state's DMV rules — most require a license change within 30 to 60 days of moving.
Will changing my address affect my car insurance?
Your insurance company will see your updated address in the RMV system, so you should also notify them directly of the move. Some insurers adjust your rate based on location, so it's important to tell them right away rather than waiting for them to discover the change. Your policy may not cover you if your address on file is significantly different from where you actually live.
What if I don't know my Social Security number's last four digits?
You'll need this information to use the online system. If you don't have it, use the mail or in-person method instead. For mail, send form DL 43 with your license number and new address. For in-person, bring your license and proof of your new address to any RMV service center.
How long does it take to get a new card with my updated address?
You don't automatically get a new card when you change your address. Your card keeps the old address until your license expires and you renew it, which happens every five years in Massachusetts. If you need a replacement card sooner, you can order one at a service center for a fee, and it will show your current address.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
Yes, you can change your address even if your license is suspended or revoked. The address change is separate from the status of your license. Update your address using any of the three methods, and make sure the RMV has your correct contact information in case they need to reach you about your suspension or revocation.