If you’re planning on moving to, from, or within the state of Massachusetts then you’re going to want to make sure that you know exactly what’s expected of you in terms of DMV paperwork. Like all states, you’ll be required to get your Massachusetts DMV Change of Address forms in order before you can truly settle in as a resident—including your address on your driver’s license and your vehicle’s registration, if applicable.
It’s good practice to take care of all of your paperwork as early as possible, especially if you’re going to be driving in the state or want to start applying for jobs. And since Massachusetts requires that you file your change of address paperwork within just 30 days of establishing residency in the state, there really isn’t much time to waste.
Not sure where you should start? That’s where we come in. We’ve put together all of the information that you’ll need to complete your Massachusetts DMV change of address and vehicle registration forms, so read through the information below and then make your way to a Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles office to get started.
Will you need to get a new driver’s license if moving to Massachusetts from another state?
How do you get one?
To get a Massachusetts driver’s license as a formerly out-of-state resident you’ll have to go to a Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles office in person, since unfortunately you can’t do a Massachusetts DMV change of address online or over the phone. You are, however, encouraged to start the application online.
Per the rules in most states, expect that Massachusetts driver’s licenses for new residents to the state are only available to those who do not have any outstanding suspensions, revocations, or cancellations on their out of state driver’s license and who have not been previously deemed unfit or unsafe to drive by the MA DMV or an outside court.
You will need to bring along the following documentation when you visit the MA DMV:
Watch this video to learn more about required identification for a Massachusetts driver’s license.
Note that if your name on your proof of identity does not match the name on your current driver’s license you will also have to bring along proof of name change, such as your marriage license, divorce decree, or a court order for a legal name change.
Is there a fee?
Yes. The fee to convert an out-of-state driver’s license to a Massachusetts driver’s license varies from $115 to $140 depending on the type of license.
Does a Massachusetts DMV change of address require a driving test?
No, provided you have a current and valid out-of-state driver’s license.
How long do you have to get a Massachusetts driver’s license or ID card?
Massachusetts requires that you get your DMV change of address handled within 30 days of establishing residency in that state. So how do you know if you’re officially a resident? Head to the MA DMV if you plan to:
How long do you have to update your vehicle’s registration?
Massachusetts requires that you register your vehicle in the state immediately upon establishing residency.
How do you update your vehicle’s registration as a new resident of Massachusetts?
You’ll need to head to an MA DMV office in person to update your vehicle’s registration. Make sure to bring along the following required documents:
You may also be required to do an emissions test.
What is the registration fee?
The fee for registering a standard non-commercial vehicle in Massachusetts varies by license type, but you can expect to spend between $60 and $100. Check out the breakdown of fees for more information.
You have 30 days after your move to update your Massachusetts driver’s license with your new address when moving within the state (and no, changing your address with the post office doesn’t cut it).
You have three primary options for updating your address on your Massachusetts driver’s license:
1. Fill out a Massachusetts DMV change of address form online. You can do so here. Be sure to have your current Massachusetts driver’s license number handy, as well as the last four digits of your social security number. If you don’t have a social security number, you can enter your foreign passport number.
2. Go to a Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles office in person. Find a Massachusetts driver’s license office near you and fill out a Massachusetts DMV change of address form in person.
3. Call the DMV directly. Want to do a Massachusetts DMV change of address over the phone? Call (617) 351-4500 to get started.
How much does a Massachusetts change of address cost?
An update to your Massachusetts address with the DMV is free, but you’ll need to pay $25 if you want a replacement driver’s license with your new address. If you don’t request a new license, the state asks that you write your new residential address in permanent ink on the back of your existing card.
What information do you need to provide to update your address on your driver’s license?
To change your address on your Massachusetts driver’s license or identification card, you will need to provide:
What information do you need to provide to update your vehicle registration?
Same as the requirements for a driver’s license, plus your social security number.
You can change the address on your vehicle’s registration online or in person at a Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles office. Do keep in mind that you will need to complete this within 30 days of your move, so time is of the essence.
Will Massachusetts issue you a new driver’s license if you’re moving within the state?
Not unless you want one.
Do you need to notify the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles if you’re moving to another state without a registered car?
Nope. When you receive a driver’s license in your new state of residency Massachusetts will automatically cancel your MA driver’s license.
Do you need to notify the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles if you’re moving to another state with your registered vehicle?
Do you need to return your Massachusetts license plates?
While not required, you can choose to return them if you please.
If you have any questions about changing your address on your driver’s license and/or vehicle’s registration when moving to, from, or within the state of Massachusetts, contact the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles directly at (857) 368-8000. You are encouraged to have your driver’s license number and license plate number (if applicable) ready when you call.
If you’d rather reach out by message, you can do so here.
We can help you out with that! Use our free online moving company directory to quickly and easily search reputable interstate movers in your area. Because moving out of state can be costly, we recommend reaching out to at least three different interstate moving companies to get quotes so that you can ensure you are getting the best price possible. Use our moving cost calculator to get an estimate on how much your Massachusetts move will cost.
Laura Mueller is a professional writer with nearly five years of experience writing about moving. She is particularly interested in topics around organization, home design, and real estate, and definitely has a few tricks up her sleeve after moving eight times in eight years during her 20s. Laura believes that moving should be as stress-free of an experience as possible, and is always working on new tips and shortcuts that she can share with readers on Moving.com.View all posts by Laura Mueller
