How to Change Your Address at the DMV in Massachusetts

Moving within Massachusetts means updating your address with the state so your license, registration, and vehicle records stay accurate. In Massachusetts, this process is handled through the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), not a “DMV” as in some other states.

This guide explains how a Massachusetts DMV change of address actually works at the RMV, what you’ll need, and what to do if something goes wrong.

State Verification: Who Handles Address Changes in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, this is typically handled by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), which is part of the Department of Transportation. The RMV is the agency that manages:

  • Driver’s licenses and learner’s permits
  • State ID cards
  • Vehicle registrations and titles
  • Address changes for all of the above

There is no separate DMV or BMV in Massachusetts. If you’re searching online, use terms like “Massachusetts RMV change of address” rather than DMV, so you land on the correct state site.

In Massachusetts, license, ID, and registration address updates are all handled through the RMV, but they may be processed as separate updates in the system. That means:

  • Updating the address on your driver’s license or ID does not always automatically update every vehicle registration you own.
  • You may need to confirm or update your address for each registered vehicle.

Depending on your county in Massachusetts, you might be used to going to a specific local RMV service center, but all of them are part of the same statewide RMV network. You do not need to look for a county or city DMV office—just an RMV service center or online RMV services.

Why Updating Your Address Matters

Many drivers in Massachusetts find that they only think about the RMV when they renew their license or registration. But keeping your address updated is important for several reasons:

Driver’s License and ID

Your Massachusetts driver’s license or MA ID is a primary form of identification. An outdated address:

  • Can cause confusion when you’re asked to verify where you live
  • May create issues if a law enforcement officer compares your license address to your current residence
  • Can be a problem when you use your license for banking, travel, or housing applications

In Massachusetts, this is typically handled by marking your new address in the RMV system and, if you choose, ordering a replacement license or ID that reflects your new address.

Vehicle Registration and Title

Your vehicle registration and, in some cases, your title rely on your correct address for:

  • Excise tax bills from your city or town
  • Registration renewal notices
  • Emissions/safety inspection-related mail, if applicable

If the address linked to your registration is wrong, Massachusetts cities and towns can send excise bills to the wrong place. That can lead to missed bills and potential collection actions if they go unpaid.

Many vehicle owners in Massachusetts find that a missed registration renewal notice or excise bill is the first sign their address wasn’t updated properly in RMV records.

Official Notices and Suspensions

The RMV sends important notices by mail, such as:

  • Suspension or revocation notices
  • Medical review requests
  • Court-related or surcharge-related notices
  • Reminders or updates about your driving privileges

If your mailing address is wrong, you might never receive those notices, even though the RMV considers them delivered if they were sent to the address on file.

Keeping your address current helps you:

  • Avoid unintended license or registration problems
  • Stay on top of requirements that could affect your right to drive in MA

What You’ll Need to Change Your Address

The Massachusetts DMV change of address process is usually straightforward if you have the right information ready. Requirements can vary depending on whether you are updating:

  • Your driver’s license or state ID
  • Your vehicle registration
  • Both at once

In Massachusetts, this is typically handled by entering identifying information into the online system or presenting it in person at an RMV service center.

Common Information and Documents

You may be asked for:

  • Full name (as it appears on your license/ID or registration)
  • Date of birth
  • Driver’s license or ID number
  • Last four digits of your Social Security number (for identity verification)
  • Old address currently on file with the RMV
  • New residential address (street address, city/town, ZIP code)
  • Mailing address, if different from your physical address
  • Vehicle information (for registration updates), such as:
    • License plate number
    • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
    • Year, make, and model of your vehicle

For online services, you may also need:

  • Email address (for confirmations)
  • Payment method, if you choose to order a replacement license/ID or registration.

Many residents in Massachusetts find that having a recent registration or their current license in front of them makes it easier to quickly enter the correct information.

Common Reasons Address Change Requests Get Rejected

The RMV system may reject or flag your request if:

  • Your identity can’t be verified (mismatch in name, DOB, SSN, or license number)
  • The new address isn’t complete or valid (missing apartment number, incorrect ZIP, non-U.S. address)
  • You enter a mailing address only where a residential address is required
  • You recently changed your name or other key details without fully updating your RMV record
  • You’re not eligible for online changes (for certain license types or statuses)

To reduce the chance of rejection:

  • Enter your information exactly as it appears on your current RMV records
  • Double-check spelling, numbers, and apartment/unit designations
  • Make sure your new address is a deliverable address in Massachusetts or, if out of state, that you are still eligible to hold a MA license/registration

Step-by-Step Options to Change Your Address in Massachusetts

The RMV offers several ways to complete a DMV change of address Massachusetts residents can use: online, in person, or by mail (if available for your situation).

In Massachusetts, this is typically handled online for most standard license and registration address changes, but some drivers must go in person.

1. Change Your Address Online (If Eligible)

Many drivers in Massachusetts find that online services are the fastest way to update their RMV records.

Online address change is generally available for:

  • Most Class D (passenger) driver’s licenses
  • Many Massachusetts ID cards
  • Most standard vehicle registrations, including passenger vehicles

However, some licenses (for example, certain commercial licenses or special statuses) may not qualify.

To access the online address change:

  1. Go to the official Massachusetts RMV website.

    • If you don’t know the URL, search for “Massachusetts RMV change of address” and choose the result that is clearly a mass.gov page and labeled as an official RMV service.
    • One commonly used official starting point is the Massachusetts RMV Online Services page at:
      • https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-registry-of-motor-vehicles

  2. Locate the address change service.

    • Look for an option like “Change your address” or “Update your address with the RMV.”

  3. Verify your identity.

    • You may be asked to enter:
      • Your MA driver’s license or ID number or other identifying details
      • Date of birth
      • Possibly all or part of your SSN

  4. Enter your new address information.

    • Provide your new residential address in Massachusetts (or your new out-of-state address if you are still holding a MA license or registration, when allowed).
    • If your mailing address is different (for example, you use a P.O. Box in MA), enter that separately when prompted.

  5. Select which records to update.

    • In Massachusetts, this is typically handled by giving you options to update:
      • Your driver’s license or ID record
      • Your vehicle registration(s)
    • Confirm whether each of your vehicles is being updated, especially if you have multiple registrations.

  6. Review and confirm.

    • Carefully check spelling, apartment numbers, and ZIP codes.
    • Confirm the update and submit your request.

  7. Decide whether to order a replacement card or registration.

    • Updating your address in the RMV database does not always require a new physical license or registration card, but you may have the option to order one.
    • If you choose to order a replacement, follow the payment steps shown on the official site.

  8. Save or print your confirmation.

    • Keep a copy of the confirmation page or email for your records, particularly if your address change is time-sensitive (for example, before an upcoming renewal or trip).

2. Change Your Address In Person

If you aren’t eligible for online updates, or if the online system doesn’t accept your information, you can go to an RMV service center.

In Massachusetts, this is typically handled by staff at RMV service centers located around the state, rather than by local town halls or police departments (unless specifically noted by the RMV).

To update in person:

  1. Find an RMV service center.

    • Go to the official Massachusetts RMV site (search for “Massachusetts RMV locations”) and use the office locator to confirm:
      • Address
      • Hours
      • Whether an appointment is required or recommended

  2. Bring your current identification.

    • At minimum, bring:
      • Your current MA driver’s license or ID card, and
      • Vehicle registration documents for any vehicles whose address you want to update.

  3. Request an address change.

    • Tell the RMV representative you need to update the address on:
      • Your license/ID
      • Your registrations
      • Or both
    • Depending on the office, you may be asked to complete an address update request on a terminal, form, or electronically at the counter.

  4. Verify your information.

    • The representative may ask questions to verify your identity and the new address.
    • Provide both residential and mailing addresses if they are different.

  5. Decide about replacement documents.

    • Ask whether a new license/ID or updated registration card will be issued, and whether there is a fee.
    • Pay any necessary fee if you choose or are required to get a replacement document.

  6. Ask for confirmation.

    • If possible, ask for a receipt or printout that shows your new address in the system, or a record of the transaction.

Many residents in Massachusetts find that going in person is useful if they’re handling multiple changes at once, such as address plus name change, or updating both a license and several registrations.

3. Change Your Address by Mail (If Available)

In some cases, the RMV may allow you to submit an address change by mail, especially if you are unable to appear in person and cannot use online services.

Because RMV mail procedures and forms can change, do not rely on older or third-party instructions. Instead:

  1. Check the official RMV site.

    • Search the official Massachusetts site for “RMV change of address by mail” or navigate from the main RMV page.
    • Look for instructions that clearly state that a mail option is available and list a current mailing address.

  2. Locate any required Massachusetts DMV change of address form.

    • If the RMV provides a downloadable Massachusetts DMV change of address form, print it and follow the instructions exactly:
      • Fill in your current information (name, license or ID number, registration info)
      • List your old and new addresses clearly
      • Sign and date the form as required

  3. Include any requested copies or documents.

    • If the instructions say to include copies of your license, ID, or other documents (never originals unless specifically requested and you’re comfortable doing so), follow those directions.

  4. Mail it to the address listed on the official instructions.

    • Use the exact mailing address, including any department or unit (e.g., “Registry of Motor Vehicles – Address Change Processing”).
    • Consider using a trackable mail option if your situation is time-sensitive.

  5. Allow time and then verify.

    • After a reasonable processing period, check your address status online or call the RMV to make sure your records reflect the new address.

Do License and Registration Update Together?

In Massachusetts, license and registration records are linked but distinct. An address change on:

  • Your driver’s license or ID updates the address for your driving record.
  • Your vehicle registration may require a separate confirmation to ensure each vehicle is updated.

When using online services, carefully review options to update:

  • “Address on my driver’s license/ID” and
  • “Address on my vehicle registration(s).”

If you own multiple vehicles, confirm whether the system allows you to update all registrations at once or if you must select each one.

After You Submit Your Address Change

Once you complete a Massachusetts DMV change of address through the RMV, here’s what typically happens.

Confirmation

  • Online: You may see a confirmation screen, receive a confirmation number, and/or get an email.
  • In person: You may get a receipt or printout.
  • By mail: You may not receive a separate confirmation unless a new document is issued, so verifying later is important.

Save any confirmation you receive, especially if you’ve recently moved and are waiting for important mail from the RMV or your city/town (such as excise tax bills).

New Card or Sticker

What you receive depends on what you chose or what the RMV requires:

  • If you only update the RMV’s database and do not request a replacement:

    • Your existing license or ID may still show your old address, even though the official record has been updated.
    • The same may be true for registration cards.

  • If you requested a replacement license/ID:

    • The RMV will produce a new card showing your updated address and mail it to the address on file.

  • If you requested a replacement registration:

    • The RMV will typically mail a new registration certificate with your corrected address.

Check the RMV site or ask in person if they issue any address change stickers; practices can change, and not all address updates involve stickers.

Timing

Processing and mailing times can vary based on:

  • How you submitted your request (online, in person, or by mail)
  • Volume of RMV transactions at that time

To be safe:

  • Don’t wait until just before a planned trip or license/registration renewal to update your address.
  • If you haven’t received a replacement document after a reasonable period, verify your status online or by contacting the RMV.

Special Situations for Massachusetts Address Changes

Certain drivers in Massachusetts face specific rules or options when changing their address.

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

If you hold a Massachusetts CDL:

  • You may be more limited in using online services, depending on RMV rules at the time.
  • Some CDL holders must appear in person to update their address, especially if other information on the license is changing.

Because CDL requirements are more tightly regulated, check the official RMV CDL guidance (on the RMV section of mass.gov) for the most current instructions before you attempt an online address change.

Military Members

For active-duty military members with MA licenses or vehicles registered in Massachusetts:

  • You may continue to hold a Massachusetts license and registration even while stationed out of state.
  • If your mailing address changes (for example, new on-base address or overseas APO/FPO), you should update the RMV so important notices can reach you.

In Massachusetts, this is typically handled either online (if your license type is eligible) or via methods specified in military-related RMV guidance, which may include special instructions. Search the official site for “RMV military” or similar terms.

College Students

College students in Massachusetts often move between campuses, dorms, and off-campus housing:

  • If you maintain a MA license and register your car in Massachusetts, your address with the RMV should match your current primary residence or mailing address as required by state rules.
  • If you are a student from another state keeping your out-of-state license and registration, your Massachusetts address changes usually do not go through the RMV but may involve your home state’s DMV.

If you change from being an out-of-state student to a Massachusetts resident, you’ll need to follow RMV new-resident rules, which include getting a MA license and registering your vehicle in MA.

New Residents of Massachusetts

If you recently moved to MA from another state:

  • You must obtain a Massachusetts driver’s license if you become a resident, and
  • Register and title your vehicles in Massachusetts, under most circumstances.

This is not just a simple address change. Instead, you’ll:

  • Convert or transfer your out-of-state license to MA, and
  • Register your vehicle with a Massachusetts address, usually with proof of insurance and, in many cases, payment of state taxes/fees.

Once you have a MA license and registration, later moves within Massachusetts are then handled as standard address changes through the RMV.

P.O. Boxes and Rural Routes

Depending on your town in Massachusetts, your home may have:

  • A street address and a P.O. Box, or
  • A rural route designation.

The RMV often distinguishes between:

  • Residential address: where you physically live, used for residency and some legal purposes.
  • Mailing address: where you receive mail, which may be a P.O. Box.

When you complete your Massachusetts DMV change of address form (online or otherwise):

  • Provide your physical Massachusetts address where requested.
  • List your P.O. Box or alternate mailing address where specifically allowed or requested.

This helps ensure that both residency and mail delivery requirements are satisfied.

Changing Name and Address Together

If you’ve recently changed your name (for example, after marriage or court order) and you also need to change your address:

  • In Massachusetts, this is typically handled as two related but separate actions:
    • A name change on your license/ID and registration, usually requiring in-person documentation, and
    • An address change for the same records.

Because name changes usually require original legal documents, you’ll often need to:

  1. Visit an RMV service center in person.
  2. Bring proof of the name change and any other required documents.
  3. Ask the RMV staff to process both your name and address updates on:
    • Your license or ID, and
    • All vehicle registrations.

Troubleshooting: What to Do if Your Address Change Doesn’t Go Through

Sometimes an address update doesn’t work as expected. Here’s how to handle the most common issues.

1. Online Address Change Rejection

If the online system won’t accept your address change, consider:

  • Check your inputs:

    • Ensure your name, DOB, license number, and SSN digits match exactly what’s on your MA license or ID.
    • Confirm the address is correctly formatted (street, apartment, city, ZIP).

  • Try variations that match RMV records:

    • If your license shows “St.”, “Ave”, or an abbreviated city name, try entering it the same way.
    • Match capitalization and spacing as closely as possible.

  • Confirm eligibility:

    • Some license types, suspensions, or other statuses may not allow online updates.
    • If the system indicates that your license type isn’t supported, you may need to go in person.

If you still can’t complete the process online, consider:

  • Visiting an RMV office for in-person updates, or
  • Calling the RMV help line (number listed on the official RMV contact page) to ask which options are available to you.

2. Submitted but Not Updated

If you submitted your address change and:

  • You don’t see the new address reflected when you check your records online, or
  • You continue to receive RMV mail at your old address after a reasonable time,

take these steps:

  1. Check your RMV records online.

    • Use the official RMV online service to view your license and/or registration information, if available.

  2. Verify which records were updated.

    • You may find that your license address changed, but not all registrations, or vice versa.

  3. Follow up with the RMV.

    • If your online record still shows the old address, contact the RMV.
    • Be ready to provide:
      • Your confirmation number (if you have one)
      • The date and method of your submission
      • Your old and new addresses

In Massachusetts, this is typically handled by RMV customer service, who can look up your record and tell you whether the update processed correctly or if you need to resubmit.

3. Rejected Request (In Person or By Mail)

If your in-person or mail request is rejected:

  • Ask why it was rejected.

    • Missing information?
    • Illegible handwriting?
    • Invalid or incomplete address?

  • Correct the specific issue.

    • Provide additional documentation if requested.
    • Complete or correct the Massachusetts DMV change of address form, if that was the problem.
    • Make sure addresses are legible, including unit/apartment numbers.

  • Resubmit using the recommended method.

    • If the RMV suggests coming in person instead of mailing, follow that advice for more direct assistance.

4. License Updated but Registration Didn’t (or Vice Versa)

If you notice that:

  • Your driver’s license record shows your new address, but
  • One or more of your vehicle registrations still show the old address (or the other way around),

then:

  1. Log into the RMV online system.

    • Check what address is shown for each vehicle and for your license/ID.

  2. Update the missing records.

    • If a vehicle registration didn’t update, use the online “change of address” tool again, making sure you select that specific vehicle.
    • If your license record didn’t change but your registration did, repeat the process focusing on your license/ID record.

  3. Confirm address for each vehicle.

    • If you own more than one vehicle, explicitly verify that each one has the correct address.

Many drivers in Massachusetts find that they accidentally updated only their driver’s license address and assumed all registrations updated automatically. Double-checking prevents missed excise tax or renewal notices.

5. Moved Out of State

If you move out of Massachusetts and establish residency in another state:

  • You will typically need to:
    • Get a new driver’s license issued by your new state, and
    • Register your vehicle there, in accordance with that state’s laws.

Once you no longer live in MA and you’ve transferred your license and registration:

  • Your MA license may be surrendered to the new state when you obtain your new license.
  • Your MA registration may need to be cancelled or allowed to expire, depending on your situation.

If you still receive Massachusetts RMV mail at your old MA address after you’ve moved:

  1. Update your mailing address directly with the RMV (often you can still do this online) so they have your current out-of-state mailing address.
  2. Contact the RMV to confirm the status of your MA license and registration and ask whether any further action is needed to close or cancel them.

Out-of-state moves can be complex, and rules can change, so check both:

  • Your new state’s DMV or equivalent agency, and
  • The Massachusetts RMV site for “moving out of state” guidance.

Final Steps

A DMV change of address Massachusetts residents complete through the RMV keeps your license, registration, and official notices aligned with where you actually live and receive mail. To move forward confidently:

  • Gather your information: license/ID numbers, registration details, old and new addresses.
  • Use the official RMV channels:
    • Online services via the Massachusetts RMV pages on mass.gov
    • In-person service centers if you aren’t eligible online
    • Mail only when clearly permitted and with the latest instructions

If you’re unsure where to start, go to the official Massachusetts RMV section of mass.gov and search for “change of address with the RMV”. From there, follow the instructions for your license type and vehicle situation.

Staying proactive about your address with the RMV helps you avoid missed notices, tax issues, and problems with your driving privileges in MA.