Where to Start: MVA Locations and Online Options

You can change your Maryland driver license at any Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office in the state, or you can handle some changes online through the MVA website without visiting in person. The route you take depends on what you're changing — your address, name, or photo — and whether you need the new license right away.

If you're changing your address only, you can do this online at mva.maryland.gov without an appointment or visit. If you're changing your name or need a new photo, you'll need to visit an MVA office. Walk-ins are accepted at all locations, but you can also schedule an appointment online to skip the wait.

The MVA has offices in every Maryland county. You can find the one nearest you and its hours on the MVA website. Some offices are busier than others — suburban locations tend to move faster than downtown Baltimore or Annapolis offices during lunch hours.

Key Takeaways

  • Address changes can be done online at mva.maryland.gov in minutes, but name changes and photo updates require an in-person visit to an MVA office.
  • You'll need your current Maryland driver license and one document proving your new name or address, depending on what you're changing.
  • Scheduling an appointment online reduces wait time, but walk-ins are accepted at all MVA locations during business hours.
  • A replacement license costs $70 if you're changing your photo or name; address-only changes are free online.

What Documents You Need to Bring

The documents required depend on what you're changing. For an address change, you need your current license and one document showing your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. The document must show your name and the new address, and it can't be more than two months old.

For a name change, bring your current license, your Social Security card, and one document proving your new legal name. This is usually a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you've changed your name through the court, bring the certified court order. The MVA will not accept a name change without legal documentation.

For a photo update only, bring your current license and your Social Security card. You don't need additional documents for a photo renewal, but the MVA will take a new photo at the office.

Changing Your Address Online

Go to mva.maryland.gov and select "Change Address" from the main menu. You'll enter your current license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. The system will confirm your current information and ask you to enter your new address.

After you submit, you'll receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. You don't pay anything for an address-only change, and your current license remains valid until the new one arrives.

If the online system can't verify your identity — which happens occasionally if your Social Security number doesn't match MVA records — you'll need to visit an office in person instead.

Changing Your Name or Photo at an MVA Office

Arrive with your documents and your current license. Check in at the front desk and tell the staff member whether you're changing your name, getting a new photo, or both. You'll receive a number and wait to be called.

When it's your turn, the MVA employee will review your documents, verify your identity, and take a new photo if you're updating it. They'll ask you to confirm your address and other information on the license. The whole process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes once you're called, though the wait time varies by location and time of day.

You'll pay $70 for a replacement license at the counter. The new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. If you need it sooner, some offices offer a rush service for an additional fee — ask the employee at the counter whether your location offers this.

Scheduling an Appointment vs. Walking In

You can schedule an appointment online at mva.maryland.gov to reserve a specific time slot. Appointments are free and typically available within a few days. If you book an appointment, you'll skip the general waiting area and go directly to a service window at your scheduled time.

Walk-ins are always accepted, but your wait time depends on how busy the office is. Weekday mornings, especially Tuesday through Thursday, tend to be less crowded than Monday afternoons or Friday. Avoid lunch hours if possible.

If you're changing only your address online, you don't need an appointment — the whole transaction happens on your computer.

What Happens After You Submit Your Change

Once you've completed your change — either online or at an office — the MVA processes your request and mails your new license. During the 7 to 10 business day wait, your current license is still valid. You can use it for identification and driving until the new one arrives.

If you're moving and your mail is being forwarded, make sure your forwarding order is active before you submit your address change. If the new license arrives at your old address, contact the MVA to request a replacement sent to your correct address.

If you don't receive your new license within 10 business days, contact the MVA customer service line at 410-768-7000 (Baltimore area) or 1-888-769-0396 (toll-free). Have your confirmation number ready if you changed your address online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address at the same time as my name?

Yes. Bring all the documents required for both changes — your current license, Social Security card, name change document, and address proof. The MVA will process both changes together, and you'll pay one $70 fee for the replacement license.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

For a name change, you'll need your Social Security card or a Social Security Administration letter showing your number and name. If you don't have either, you can request a replacement card from the Social Security Administration before visiting the MVA, or contact the MVA office to ask whether they accept other identity documents in place of the card.

Do I need an appointment if I'm just changing my address online?

No. Address-only changes are completed entirely online at mva.maryland.gov and don't require an office visit or appointment. The process takes a few minutes and your new license arrives by mail.

How long is my current license valid while I wait for the new one?

Your current license remains valid for driving and identification until your new license arrives. You don't need to do anything — just use your current license normally during the 7 to 10 business day wait.

What if I need my new license before 10 business days?

Some MVA offices offer rush processing for an additional fee, though not all locations provide this service. Ask the employee at the counter when you submit your change, or call the MVA customer service line to find out whether your local office offers expedited service.