Where to report your address change and what documents you need

The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) requires you to report an address change within 30 days of moving. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at an RMV branch. The online method is fastest — you'll need your driver's license or ID number, your date of birth, and your new address. If you go in person, bring your current license or ID and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.

Your vehicle registration will automatically update to your new address once your license or ID changes. You don't need to file a separate form for the car itself. However, if you're moving out of state or changing your vehicle's use (for example, from personal to commercial), you'll need to handle those separately.

Key Takeaways

  • Report your address change to the RMV within 30 days of moving, or you may face fines or license suspension.
  • The online method through mass.gov/rmv is the fastest option and requires only your license number, date of birth, and new address.
  • If you go in person, bring your current license or ID and a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement showing your new address.
  • Your vehicle registration updates automatically when your license updates — you don't file a separate registration form for the car.

Changing your address online

Visit mass.gov/rmv and select "Change Your Address" from the main menu. You'll be asked to enter your driver's license or ID number, date of birth, and the new address where you want mail sent. The system will verify your identity and process the change when ready. You'll receive a confirmation number on screen — save or print this for your records.

Online changes take effect right away. Your new license or ID will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive before it arrives, your old license remains valid during that time. The online method costs nothing and works 24 hours a day.

Changing your address in person at an RMV branch

Walk into any RMV service center with your current driver's license or ID and proof of your new address. Proof can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement — it must show your name and new address and be dated within the last 60 days. Tell the clerk you need to change your address. They'll update your record on the spot and issue you a new license or ID if yours is expiring soon, or mail one to your new address if it's not.

In-person service times vary by location. Some branches are busier than others, so arriving early in the day or on a weekday typically means shorter waits. Check the RMV website for your nearest branch's hours before you go.

Changing your address by mail

read the "Change of Address" form from mass.gov/rmv or pick one up at any RMV branch. Fill in your driver's license or ID number, date of birth, and new address. Include a copy of proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works. Mail the form and proof to the RMV address listed on the form.

Mail processing takes 2 to 3 weeks. Your new license or ID will be sent to your new address once the RMV processes your request. During this time, your old license remains valid. Keep a copy of what you mailed in case the RMV needs to contact you with questions.

What happens if you don't report your address change

The RMV can suspend your license if you don't report a move within 30 days. You may also miss important notices about registration renewals, vehicle recalls, or violations. If the RMV sends a notice to your old address and you don't respond, they may assume you're not receiving mail and take action against your license or registration.

If your license has already been suspended for a missed address change, you'll need to contact the RMV directly to restore it. Call the RMV at 857-368-8000 or visit a branch in person with proof of your current address to get back in good standing.

Updating your address for vehicle registration separately

In most cases, your vehicle registration updates automatically when your driver's license or ID address changes — you don't need to do anything extra. However, if your registration renewal notice is coming due and you've just moved, contact the RMV before your renewal date to make sure the notice reaches you at your new address. You can call 857-368-8000 to confirm your registration address is current.

If you own a vehicle registered to a business address or a different person's address, you'll need to file a separate registration change. Contact the RMV for instructions on how to update a registration that doesn't match your personal license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my address if I'm only moving temporarily?

If you're moving for more than 30 days, you should report the change. If you're moving back within 30 days, you can wait until you return to your original address. The RMV's 30-day rule is meant to catch permanent moves, not short-term absences.

What counts as proof of my new address?

A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and new address, dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill or credit card statement usually doesn't work. If you're staying with family or in temporary housing, ask the RMV what documents they'll accept.

Can I change my address online if my license is expired?

No. The online system requires a valid license or ID number. If your license is expired, go in person to an RMV branch or mail in the change-of-address form. You may also need to renew your license at the same time.

How long does it take to get my new license after changing my address?

If you change your address online or by mail, your new license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. If you change it in person at a branch, they may issue a new one on the spot if your current one is expiring soon, or mail one within 7 to 10 days.

What if I moved out of state?

You'll need to surrender your Massachusetts license and get a license in your new state. Contact your new state's DMV or equivalent agency for their process. You don't need to formally close your Massachusetts license — it straightforward expires if you don't renew it.