Change your address with the MVA online, by mail, or in person

Maryland's Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) requires you to report an address change within 60 days of moving. You can update your address three ways: online through the MVA website if you have a valid Maryland driver's license or ID card, by mail using Form DL 43, or in person at any MVA office. The online method is fastest — it takes minutes and costs nothing. Mail takes one to two weeks. In-person visits require an appointment, which you can book through the MVA website.

Your address change updates both your driver's license and vehicle registration records. If you do not update within 60 days, you risk fines and complications if you are stopped by police or need to renew your license. The MVA will mail renewal notices to your old address if your records are not current, which means you might miss the important date to renew.

Key Takeaways

  • Maryland law requires you to report an address change to the MVA within 60 days of moving.
  • The online method through the MVA website is free and takes a few minutes if you have a valid Maryland license or ID card.
  • If you cannot use the online system, mail Form DL 43 to the MVA or visit an office in person with an appointment.
  • Your address change updates your driver's license, ID card, and vehicle registration all at once.
  • Failing to update your address can result in fines and causes renewal notices to go to your old address.

Update your address online through the MVA website

The fastest way to change your address is through the MVA's online system at mva.maryland.gov. You will need your valid Maryland driver's license or ID card number, your Social Security number, and your new address. The system takes about five minutes and costs nothing.

Go to the MVA website, select "Change Address Online," and follow the prompts. You will verify your identity by answering security questions based on your MVA records. Once you submit, your address updates when ready in the system. You do not need to pay a fee or receive a new card — your current license or ID remains valid with the new address on file.

The online system works for driver's licenses, ID cards, and vehicle registrations at the same time. If you have multiple vehicles registered in Maryland, all of them update with your new address in one transaction.

Mail Form DL 43 to the MVA if you cannot use the online system

If you do not have a valid Maryland license or ID card, or if the online system does not work for your situation, you can mail your address change. read or request Form DL 43 (process for Duplicate License or ID Card or Address Change) from the MVA website or pick one up at any MVA office.

Fill in your current information, your new address, and sign the form. Mail it to the address listed on the form — currently the MVA's main office in Glen Burnie, though you should verify the current mailing address on the form itself. Include a copy of proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days. Processing takes one to two weeks from the date the MVA receives your form.

There is no fee for an address change by mail. You do not need to include your old license or ID card unless you are also requesting a replacement card.

Visit an MVA office in person with an appointment

You can change your address at any of Maryland's MVA offices. Book an appointment through the MVA website at mva.maryland.gov — walk-ins are not accepted at most locations. Bring your valid driver's license or ID card and proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days).

The appointment process is straightforward: check in, confirm your new address, and you are done. There is no fee. Your address updates in the system when ready, and you leave with your current license or ID card, which remains valid.

If you do not have a valid license or ID card, you will need to bring additional documents to prove your identity and residency. The MVA website lists what documents are accepted for each situation.

What happens if you miss the 60-day important date

Maryland law says you must report your address change within 60 days. If you do not, you can be fined up to $100. More practically, renewal notices will go to your old address, which means you might miss the important date to renew your license or registration.

If you are stopped by police and your address on file does not match where you actually live, you may face additional questions or citations. Updating your address promptly avoids these complications.

If you have already missed the important date, update your address now using any of the three methods above. The MVA does not penalize you for updating late — only for not updating at all.

Address changes for vehicle registration only

If you are changing your address but your driver's license or ID card address is already current, you still need to update your vehicle registration. The online address change through the MVA website updates both at once. If you use mail or an in-person visit, the same process covers both your license and your registration.

If you own multiple vehicles, all registrations update with your new address in a single transaction, whether you change your address online, by mail, or in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get a new license card when I change my address?

No. Your current license or ID card remains valid. The MVA updates your address in their system, and your card is still good until its expiration date. You only receive a new card if you specifically request a replacement or if your card is damaged.

What counts as proof of my new address?

A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill dated within the last 60 days all work. Some people use bank statements or insurance documents. The document must show your name and your new address. Check the MVA website for the complete list of accepted documents.

Can I change my address if my license or ID card has expired?

You cannot use the online system if your card is expired. You will need to mail Form DL 43 or visit an MVA office in person. Bring your expired card plus proof of your new address. The MVA can update your address and issue a renewal at the same time.

How long does it take to change my address by mail?

The MVA typically processes mailed forms within one to two weeks from the date they receive it. Mail delivery adds time on both ends, so allow three to four weeks total from when you drop your form in the mail. If you need the change faster, visit an MVA office or use the online system.

What if I move again before my address change is processed?

If you are changing your address by mail and move again before the MVA processes your form, contact the MVA directly to update your information. If you use the online system or visit in person, your address updates when ready, so a second move would require a second change.