How to Get a Replacement Maryland Driver's License

Where to get a replacement license in Maryland

You can get a replacement Maryland driver's license through the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), which is the state agency that issues and renews licenses. You have two main routes: visit an MVA office in person, or order a replacement online through the MVA website if you meet certain conditions.

The in-person route works for anyone and takes about 15 to 30 minutes at most MVA locations, though wait times vary by office and time of day. The online route is faster — you can order a replacement in minutes — but it only works if your license is not expired by more than five years, you have not had it suspended or revoked, and you do not need to change any information on the license itself.

Key Takeaways

You can order a replacement online through the MVA website if your license expired within the last five years and has not been suspended or revoked.
If you need to visit an MVA office, bring your current license (or ID card), proof of residency, and payment — no appointment is required at most locations.
A replacement license costs $70 for a standard license or $100 for a Real ID-compliant license, and takes about 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail.
If your license was lost or stolen, you can report it to the MVA when you order the replacement to prevent someone else from using it.

Ordering online through the MVA website

Go to the Maryland MVA website and select "Order a Replacement License" from the main menu. You will need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (credit card or debit card). The system will verify your identity using this information.

The online process takes about five minutes. You choose whether you want a standard license ($70) or a Real ID-compliant license ($100). A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and is required for federal building access and domestic air travel starting in 2025, though a standard license still works for driving. After you complete the order, the MVA mails your replacement to the address on file, which typically arrives in 7 to 10 business days.

You cannot order online if your license has been expired for more than five years, if it has been suspended or revoked, or if you need to change your name, address, or other information. In those cases, you must visit an MVA office.

Visiting an MVA office in person

Find your nearest MVA office on the MVA website by entering your zip code. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and some have extended hours or Saturday appointments. You do not need to make an appointment — walk-ins are accepted, though arriving early in the day usually means shorter waits.

Bring your current driver's license or state ID card, proof that you live in Maryland (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and payment. If you have lost your license and do not have another form of ID, bring your Social Security card and birth certificate instead. The fee is $70 for a standard replacement or $100 for a Real ID license.

The MVA staff will take a new photo, verify your information, and issue your replacement on the spot. You can drive home with a temporary paper license that day, and your permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive before the permanent card arrives, the temporary license is valid for 45 days.

What to do if your license was lost or stolen

When you order your replacement — whether online or in person — tell the MVA that your license was lost or stolen. The MVA will flag your old license number in their system so it cannot be used by someone else. You do not need to file a police report unless you believe the license will be used for fraud, though you can do so if you want a record.

If you are concerned about identity theft, you may also want to place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) or freeze your credit. These steps are separate from the license replacement but can help protect your financial accounts.

Real ID versus standard license: which to choose

A Real ID-compliant license has a gold star and meets federal security standards. Starting in 2025, you will need a Real ID license to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. If you do not have a Real ID license and do not plan to fly or visit federal offices, a standard license is sufficient for driving.

The Real ID license costs $30 more ($100 instead of $70) and requires the same documents as a standard license. If you are ordering online, you straightforward choose the Real ID option at checkout. If you are visiting an MVA office, tell the staff which type you want. Both arrive by mail in the same timeframe.

Timeline and what to expect after you order

After you order or receive your replacement, the MVA processes the request and mails your new license. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you order. During this time, your temporary paper license (if you received one in person) is valid for driving.

If your replacement does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the MVA to check the status. You can call the MVA customer service line or visit an office with your temporary license. If there was an error in the mailing address on file, you may need to update it and reorder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license the same day I explore?

If you visit an MVA office in person, you receive a temporary paper license that day and can drive home with it. Your permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you order online, you must wait for the card to arrive by mail.

What if my address changed since I got my current license?

You can update your address online through the MVA website without ordering a replacement license. If you want a new card with the updated address, you can order a replacement and the new address will print on it. Otherwise, your current license remains valid for driving even if the address is outdated.

Do I need a Real ID license to renew my license online?

No. When you order a replacement online, you choose whether you want a standard or Real ID license. Either type can be ordered through the website if your current license meets the online ordering requirements.

What if I never received my replacement license in the mail?

Contact the MVA customer service line with your order number or temporary license number. They can check whether the card was mailed and to which address. If it was lost in the mail, the MVA can reissue it or you can order another replacement.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. Your replacement license is mailed directly to your address on file and must be signed for or left at your residence. You cannot have it sent to another person or location.

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.