How to Change Your Address With the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles

You can change your Massachusetts vehicle registration address online, by mail, or in person at an RMV office

The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) requires you to update your address within a reasonable time after you move. You do not need to renew your registration to make this change — it is a separate transaction. The fastest route is the online system at mass.gov/rmv, which processes most address changes the same day. If you cannot use the online system, you can mail a form or visit an RMV branch in person.

Your registration certificate and vehicle title will be mailed to your new address once the change is processed. You should update your address before your registration expires, because the RMV will mail your renewal notice to whatever address is on file.

Key Takeaways

• The online address change at mass.gov/rmv is the fastest method and requires your registration number, date of birth, and last four digits of your Social Security number.
• If you move and do not update your address, the RMV will mail renewal notices and registration documents to your old address, and you may miss important important date.
• You can also mail Form RMV-14 (Change of Address) or visit an RMV branch in person with your registration certificate and proof of your new address.
• The change takes effect when ready online, but mailed forms typically process within one to two weeks.

Changing your address online through mass.gov/rmv

Go to mass.gov/rmv and select "Change Your Address" from the main menu. You will need your current registration number (found on your registration certificate), your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Enter your new address and confirm the information. The system will process the change and send you a confirmation email.

This method works for passenger vehicles, motorcycles, and most commercial vehicles. If you own multiple vehicles, you must update each registration separately. The change takes effect when ready, and you can print a confirmation page if you need proof of the update.

Mailing Form RMV-14 to the Registry

read Form RMV-14 (Change of Address) from mass.gov/rmv or pick one up at any RMV branch. Fill in your current registration number, vehicle identification number (VIN), and your new address. Sign and date the form, then mail it to the address listed on the form — typically the RMV's main office in Boston.

Include a copy of your registration certificate and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days. Processing by mail usually takes one to two weeks. Keep a copy of the form and your proof documents for your records.

Visiting an RMV branch in person

You can walk into any RMV branch and request an address change at the counter. Bring your registration certificate, your vehicle's title (if you have it), and proof of your new address. The staff will complete the change on the spot, and you will receive a receipt. This method is useful if you need the change processed when ready or if you have questions about your specific situation.

RMV branches are located in Boston, Framingham, Medford, Springfield, and Worcester. Hours and wait times vary by location. Check mass.gov/rmv for current hours before you visit, as some branches have limited schedules.

What counts as proof of your new address

The RMV accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, and bank statements dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and your new address. If you recently moved and do not yet have a utility bill in your name, a signed lease or a letter from your landlord stating your move-in date will work.

If you are moving to a new address but your mail has not caught up yet, bring whatever recent document you have that shows the address, plus a written explanation of your move date. The RMV staff can note this in your file.

What happens if you do not update your address

The RMV will continue to mail your registration renewal notice, registration certificate, and other documents to your old address. If you miss your renewal important date because the notice went to the wrong place, your registration will expire and you cannot legally drive the vehicle. You will then have to renew late, which may involve additional fees or a visit to an RMV branch.

If you are pulled over and your license shows an old address, a police officer may ask why your registration documents are not at that address. While an outdated address alone is not a violation, it can complicate traffic stops. Updating your address keeps your records current and ensures you receive important notices.

Changing your address when you also renew your registration

If your registration is expiring soon, you can update your address and renew at the same time. When you renew online at mass.gov/rmv, the system will ask you to confirm your current address. If it is wrong, you can correct it before you complete the renewal. This saves you a separate transaction.

If you are renewing by mail, include the address change on your renewal form or on a separate Form RMV-14. The RMV will process both requests together. When you renew in person at an RMV branch, the staff will update your address as part of the renewal process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for an address change to show up in the RMV system?

Online changes take effect when ready. Mailed forms typically process within one to two weeks. If you need proof of the change right away, use the online system or visit an RMV branch in person.

Do I need to change my driver's license address at the same time?

No. Your vehicle registration and driver's license are separate records. You must update your driver's license address separately through the RMV. You can do this online, by mail, or at an RMV branch using the same methods.

What if I moved out of state?

If you moved to another state, you will need to register your vehicle in that state and surrender your Massachusetts registration. Contact the motor vehicle department in your new state for their requirements. You do not straightforward change your address with the Massachusetts RMV.

Can I change my address if my registration is expired?

Yes, you can update your address even if your registration has expired. However, you cannot legally drive the vehicle until you renew. Update your address first, then renew your registration as soon as possible.

What if I do not have my registration certificate handy?

For online changes, you only need your registration number, date of birth, and last four digits of your Social Security number — you do not need the physical certificate. For mailed forms or in-person visits, you should bring the certificate if you have it, but call your local RMV branch first to ask what they can accept if you do not.