How to Change Your Address with the Maryland MVA

When you move to a new address in Maryland, you are required by law to notify the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) within 30 days.

The great news is that this process is simple, fast, and 100% FREE.

Many people get confused about the cost, so let’s be clear: you only pay a fee if you choose to order a new, replacement driver’s license card. This guide will walk you through the free online process, the in-person option, and what you must do to update your vehicle records.

The Best Method: How to Change Your MVA Address Online

This is the fastest and easiest way to update your address. The change is instant and free.

The best part: The myMVA portal is a unified system. When you change your address here, it automatically updates both your Driver’s License record AND all Vehicle Registrations tied to your name.

  1. Visit the myMVA Portal: Navigate to the official Maryland MVA website at [https://mymva.maryland.gov/].
  2. Log In or Create an Account: You will need your driver’s license number, date of birth, and the last 4 of your SSN to log in or create your one-time profile.
  3. Find the “Change Address” Service: Once logged in, look for the “Change Address” service on your main dashboard.
  4. Enter Your New Address: Type in your new residential and mailing addresses.
  5. Review and Submit: Confirm the new address is correct. The MVA will update your record in real-time.

At the end of this free process, the MVA will give you the option to order a new, corrected driver’s license or ID card for a fee (typically $20). You are not required to do this. Your old license with the old address is still valid, as your record is now correct in the state’s system.

How to Change Your Address In-Person

You can also change your address by visiting an MVA branch. This is only recommended if you are already there for another service or if you want to get a new physical license card immediately (you’ll receive a temporary card).

Appointments are mandatory for all in-person services.

  1. Book Your Appointment: You must first schedule your visit online.
  2. Select the Service: When booking, choose “Driver’s License Services” and then “Correction” or “Duplicate.”
  3. Visit the Branch: Go to your appointment with your current driver’s license.
  4. Inform the Agent: Tell the MVA agent you need to update your address. If you also want a new card, you will pay the $20 replacement fee.

How to Change Your Address by Mail (Vehicle Records)

This method is slower and primarily for updating your vehicle registration and title records, though the online portal (in Section 1) is still the better way to do this.

  1. Download the Correct Form: You must use Form VR-11 (Application for Change of Address). (The VR-154 form mentioned in your original article is incorrect and used for gifting a car).
  2. Fill Out the Form: Complete the form with your name, driver’s license number, and new address. You must also list the license plate and title number for each vehicle you own.
  3. Mail the Form: Send the completed form to the MVA address listed on the form. This process is free and updates your record, but it will not get you a new driver’s license card.

(Note: Do not use Form VR-154 for an address change. That is a different form used for a “Gift Certification,” which you can learn about in our guide on gifting a car in Maryland.)

FAQs from Maryland Drivers

How much does it cost to change my address in Maryland?

It is 100% FREE. The MVA does not charge a fee to update your address in their system. You only pay a fee (about $20) if you choose to order a new, replacement driver’s license or ID card with the new address printed on it.

How long does the address change take?

The online change is INSTANT. The moment you click “submit” on the myMVA portal, your record is updated. If you order a new card, it will arrive by mail in 7-10 business days.

Do I have to get a new license card after I move?

No. You are not required to get a new card. Your current license is still valid as long as your new address is correct in the MVA’s system.

Does changing my driver’s license address also change my car registration?

YES, if you use the online myMVA portal. It is a unified system and will update your address for both your license and all vehicles registered in your name.

I’m also changing my name. Can I do that online?

NO. This is a critical difference. A name change (due to marriage, divorce, etc.) cannot be done online. You must schedule an in-person MVA appointment and bring your original, legal name-change document (like a Marriage Certificate or court order).

Does the MVA update my voter registration?

Yes. The MVA’s online address change portal will automatically ask you if you also want to update your address for voter registration.

What if I’m moving out of Maryland?

If you are moving out of state, you must register your car in your new state. Once you do, you should return your Maryland license plates to the MVA to officially close your account.

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