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

Where to Change Your Address in Massachusetts

The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) handles address changes for driver's licenses, ID cards, and vehicle registrations. You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at an RMV branch. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and your change is recorded when ready. Mail and in-person visits take longer but work if you prefer not to use the online system.

Massachusetts does not require you to change your address within a specific number of days, but your license and registration should match your current residence. If you move and do not update your address, you may face issues if stopped by police, and mail from the RMV will go to your old address.

Key Takeaways

You can change your Massachusetts driver's license or ID card address online through the RMV website without visiting a branch or mailing documents.
Vehicle registration address changes can be done online, by mail, or in person, and the method you use depends on whether you also need to renew your registration.
Online address changes for licenses and IDs are processed when ready, while mail submissions typically take two to four weeks.
You will need your driver's license or ID number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to change your address online.

Changing Your Driver's License or ID Card Address Online

Log into the Massachusetts RMV website and select the option to change your address. You will need your current driver's license or ID number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Enter your new address exactly as it appears on mail you receive at that location — street number, street name, apartment or unit number if applicable, city, state, and ZIP code.

After you submit the change online, the RMV sends you a confirmation email. Your new address is active in the system when ready, though the physical card in your wallet will still show your old address until it expires and you renew it. If you need the address to appear on a new card right away, you can request a replacement card for a fee through the same online system.

Changing Your Vehicle Registration Address

Vehicle registration address changes follow different rules depending on your situation. If your registration is not expiring soon, you can change the address online through the RMV website using your registration number and vehicle identification number (VIN). If your registration expires within the next few months, you may want to renew and change the address at the same time, which you can also do online.

If you prefer to change your registration address by mail, send a letter to the RMV with your name, old address, new address, vehicle registration number, and VIN. Include a check or money order if the RMV charges a fee for the change in your situation. Mail it to the address listed on your registration notice. Processing takes two to four weeks.

You can also visit an RMV branch in person to change your registration address. Bring your current registration card and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.

What Counts as Proof of Your New Address

If you are changing your address in person or by mail, the RMV accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. Acceptable documents include utility bills (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank or credit card statement. A piece of mail from a government agency also works.

If you do not have a document in your name at your new address yet, some RMV branches will accept a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead stating that you live at the new address. Call your local branch ahead of time to confirm they accept this form of proof.

Changing Your Address at an RMV Branch

Find your nearest RMV branch on the Massachusetts RMV website and check their hours before you go. Bring your current driver's license or ID card, your vehicle registration if you are also updating that, and proof of your new address. You do not need an appointment for an address change, but wait times vary by location and time of day.

Tell the staff member at the counter that you need to change your address. They will update your information in the system, and your new address takes effect when ready. If you want a new license or ID card with your updated address printed on it, you can request one at the same visit for a replacement fee.

Changing Your Address by Mail

For a driver's license or ID card address change by mail, write a letter to the RMV that includes your full name, date of birth, current address, new address, and driver's license or ID number. Sign the letter and mail it to the address on the back of your license or ID card, or find the mailing address on the RMV website.

For a vehicle registration address change by mail, include your vehicle registration number, VIN, current address, and new address. Include proof of your new address if you are changing your registration. Mail it to the address on your registration notice. The RMV will send you a confirmation letter at your new address once the change is processed, which typically takes two to four weeks.

What Happens If You Move Out of State

If you move out of Massachusetts, you should surrender your Massachusetts driver's license and register your vehicle in your new state. Massachusetts does not charge a fee to surrender your license — you can mail it to the RMV or turn it in at a branch. Your new state's motor vehicle agency will issue you a new license and registration.

If you are moving temporarily and plan to return to Massachusetts, you can update your address to your temporary location and update it again when you return. The RMV does not restrict how many times you can change your address.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to change my address online?

Your address change is recorded when ready when you submit it online. You will receive a confirmation email within a few minutes. Your new address is active in the RMV system right away, even though your physical card will still show your old address until you renew it.

Do I have to change my address if I move?

Massachusetts does not legally require you to change your address within a specific timeframe, but you should update it as soon as you move. If you are stopped by police and your license shows a different address than where you are living, it can create complications. Mail from the RMV will also go to your old address if you do not update it.

Can I change my address without going to an RMV branch?

Yes. You can change your driver's license, ID card, or vehicle registration address online through the RMV website, or you can mail a letter to the RMV with your information. Both methods avoid a trip to a branch, though online is faster.

What if my new address is not yet in the mail system?

If you have just moved to a new address that is not yet recognized by the postal service, call your local RMV branch and ask what documents they will accept. Some branches accept a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead as proof of residence.

Do I need to change my address if I only moved within Massachusetts?

Yes. You should update your address with the RMV whenever you move, whether it is within Massachusetts or to another state. This keeps your license, ID card, and registration current and ensures mail from the RMV reaches you.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.