Looking to submit a change of address in Massachusetts? Whenever you're planning a move in Massachusetts, you need to take care of a range of smaller tasks before settling into your new home. One of the easiest to forget is updating your address with the appropriate authorities.
Whether you're relocating from a different part of the country or simply moving to a different neighborhood in the same town, it's crucial to notify the appropriate authorities to ensure you receive any important documents or notices.
It's fairly easy to forget, but it's a critical step to ensure that your information is up to date and your name is in the system. Luckily, submitting a Massachusetts RMV change of address is a fairly simple process that you can knock out in a few quick steps. To help make it even more straightforward, here is a look at how to submit a license change of address in Massachusetts and other important updates you'll need to make after moving.
How to Change Your Address On a License in MA
The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) is responsible for registering and inspecting motor vehicles, issuing driver's licenses, and processing other vehicle-related inquiries. So, the first thing you'll want to do after moving is to submit a Massachusetts RMV change of address.
You have two options for a Massachusetts RMV Change of Address: the standard Massachusetts driver's license or the Real ID driver's license, which is valid for federal purposes and can be used to enter certain federal facilities or board domestic flights. The Real ID will have a gold star in the top right corner to differentiate it from a standard driver's license.
The state requires you to submit an RMV change of address in Massachusetts within 30 days of moving into your new residence. You can update your information in person, online, or over the phone. Here are the steps for submitting a Massachusetts RMV change of address for each method.
Submit a Massachusetts Driver's License Address Change Application Online
- Log in or create an RMV Account on myRMV.
- Update Your Information: Navigate to the "Manage My Licenses and Permits" Tab and choose the "Amendment" Link under your license record.
- Choose Amendment: Select DPL Amendment (name change, address change, duplicate license) and click continue.
- Select the "address change" option and proceed with your Massachusetts RMV change of address.
- Enter new address: Input your new address and a start date, then save your changes.
- Verify your new address on the verification screen.
To submit a Massachusetts RMV change of address online, you'll be required to provide your last name, date of birth, and the required documents, including a learner's permit, driver's license or ID card number, proof of lawful presence, and your social security number (or an alternative like a Passport or Consular ID number).
You are not required by law to get a new card after submitting a Massachusetts RMV change of address unless you're replacing an out-of-state license because you’re relocating from across state lines. However, you can request a replacement driver's license to reflect your new address for a $25 fee.
You also aren't required to take a new driving test or request new license plates if you're simply submitting a Massachusetts RMV change of address.
In lieu of a new driver's license, you can also write your new residential address on the back of your old card in the designated area on the license address label with permanent ink.
Submit a Massachusetts RMV Change of Address By Phone
You can also submit a Massachusetts RMV change of address over the phone. To do so, you will need to provide your name, current address, driver's license or Massachusetts ID card number, and the last four digits of your social security number.
Residents looking to submit a license change of address in Massachusetts over the phone should call:
- (857) 368-8000 if you are submitting a Massachusetts RMV change of address from area codes 339, 617, 781, and 857 or from outside of Massachusetts.
- (800) 858-3926 to submit a Massachusetts RMV change of address from any other Massachusetts area codes
- TTY: (877) 768-8833 if you are deaf or hard of hearing and want to submit a Massachusetts RMV change of address
Submit a Massachusetts RMV Change of Address In Person
To submit a Massachusetts RMV change of address form in person, you'll need to gather the necessary information and make an appointment at your local RMV service center or qualified AAA location (if you are a member). You'll need to bring with you the completed application, any required documentation, and fees for obtaining a new license.
Updating Your Vehicle Registration in Massachusetts
Beyond submitting a Massachusetts RMV change of address, you'll also need to update your vehicle registration if you plan to have a car while living in Massachusetts.
To submit a Massachusetts RMV vehicle registration change of address, you'll need:
- Name
- Address
- Color of vehicle
- Garaging
- Gross Weight
- Lessee
- Insurance
With that information in mind, you'll want to do the following to submit a Massachusetts RMV change of address for your registration:
- Contact Your Insurance Agent
- Complete a Registration and Title Application with the necessary changes and have your agent stamp and sign it
- Include the license number and DOB of all owners listed on the registration
- Indicate the change in the applicable space on the application
- After verifying the information, all owners must sign the application.
You'll be required to pay a $25 vehicle registration amendment fee per vehicle to submit a Massachusetts RMV change of address. You can submit a vehicle registration change of address with the RMV in Massachusetts in several different ways.
Update Your Registration By Mail
Mail your completed Registration and Title Application and the required $25 fee (made payable to MassDOT) to the following address:
Registry of Motor Vehicles
Attn: Mail-In Registration Department
PO Box 55891
Boston, MA 02205-5891
Your new registration will then be mailed to the address on record.
Update Your Registration In Person
Schedule an appointment at your local RMV and bring your completed Registration and Title Application and the required fee. You can submit payment for Massachusetts RMV change of address by cash, check, money order, credit card, or debit card (although you may want to call ahead to confirm, as acceptable payment methods can vary depending on the location).
Update Your Registration Online
Visit myRMV and access your online profile to update your address in the system. If you want your registration to reflect your new address, you can also request a duplicate registration online.
How to Change Your Address in Massachusetts With the Post Office
Although the first step after relocating is to submit a Massachusetts RMV change of address, there are several other agencies you'll also want to notify, including the post office, to ensure you receive mail properly at the new address.
You can submit a USPS change of address online or in person at your local post office.
Submit the United States Postal Service Change Online
- Visit USPS.com/move.
- Choose whether the move is related to an individual, family, or business.
- Fill out the form with your old and new address and the date of the change.
- Verify your identity and pay a small fee ($1.10)
Submit a USPS Change of Address In-Person
- Visit your local post office
- Request a Mover's Guide packet
- Fill out PS Form 3575
- Give it to the postal clerk or put it in the mail slot
You may be asked to show an acceptable photo ID form if you submit a USPS address change in person. Note that a postal service change of address form update will not automatically update your vehicle registration. You should still take the proper steps to contact your insurance carrier and submit a Massachusetts RMV change of address to keep your vehicle registered.
How to Change Your Address in Massachusetts With Tax Agencies
Along with the post office and the Massachusetts RMV change of address, you'll also want to alert the local tax authorities or government agencies of your recent relocation. The two major agencies you'll want to contact are the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR).
You have a few options for submitting an IRS change of address:
- Fill out form 8822, Change of Address, and mail it to the appropriate Department of Treasury as listed on the form, based on the location of your previous address.
- Send the IRS a signed, written statement with your full name, old and new address, and social security number, then mail it to the address where you sent your previous year's tax return.
- Contact the IRS by phone and provide the operator with your full name, old and new address, SSN, and any additional information they need to verify your identity.
- Use your new address when you file your next tax return.
To submit a Massachusetts address change with the Department of Revenue:
- Report a new address to the DOR on your personal income tax return.
- Send an e-message stating your address change through Mass-tax-connect.
- Send a signed copy of Form COA: Taxpayer Change of Address to Massachusetts Department of Revenue, PO Box 7011 Boston, MA 02204.
Other Places You May Need to Change Your Address In Massachusetts
Notifying local tax authorities and federal agencies and submitting a Massachusetts RMV change of address is a great first step. But there are plenty of other businesses and organizations you'll want to notify to ensure you receive any important documents and notifications. Here are a few other places to consider updating your address.
Utility Companies
You'll want to notify any utility companies of your upcoming move, especially if you need to stop, start, or transfer service. Most major providers have a link on their website or a customer service line you can call to manage your service.
Voter Registration
Along with your Massachusetts RMV change of address, you'll also want to keep your voter registration up to date before election day, especially if you're relocating from a different state. To update your voter registration, visit vote.gov and select Massachusetts. It will reroute you to the Massachusetts Secretary of State's website, where you can update your address.
Social Security
It is also crucial to keep your information up to date with the Social Security Administration. You can do so by visiting their website and creating or signing into your account. Alternatively, you can call their customer service line at +1 800-772-1213 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Passport
Unlike a Massachusetts RMV change of address, you actually do not need to update your address on your passport if it's still valid. If you are waiting for a new passport and your mailing address recently changed and don't want it sent to your old address, you can call 1-877-487-2778 or 1-888-874-7793 to request more information.
Banks and Financial Institutions
Finally, you'll want to contact any banks or financial institutions and alert them of your address change. The exact process will change based on the institution, but in most cases, you can update it online, over the phone, through a mobile app, or by visiting a branch in person.
Massachusetts Change of Address FAQ
What Happens If You Don't Notify a Change of Address?
Failing to submit a Massachusetts RMV change of address can result in major penalties, including a civil motor vehicle infraction citation with a $35 fine. If the issue is still not addressed, the RMV can eventually suspend your driver's license, learner's permit, or vehicle registration. So be sure to submit a license change of address in Massachusetts as soon as possible.
How Long Do I Have To Change My Address After Moving To Massachusetts?
You must submit a Massachusetts RMV change of address within 30 days of relocating to a new space, or you will face penalties.
What Are the Residency Requirements for Massachusetts?
To get a Massachusetts driver's license, you must prove that you're a legal resident with a permanent home in the state where you spend at least 183 days of the tax year. You may be required to show documentation proving you live in Massachusetts, such as a utility bill, apartment lease, or mortgage, to submit a license change of address in Massachusetts.
Getting Ready to Move to Massachusetts?
Preferred Movers is here to ensure your moving day is effortless and efficient if you’re planning on submitting a Massachusetts license change of address after moving. You can trust our dependable North Shore movers to make your upcoming move a piece of cake. Call (351) 888-3987 today for a free quote.
