What you need to know about Maryland driver's licenses
A Maryland driver's license is a state-issued photo ID that proves you can legally drive in Maryland and other states. You get it from the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), which is Maryland's equivalent to a DMV. The license shows your name, address, date of birth, and driving record restrictions — things like whether you need corrective lenses or have any medical conditions that affect your driving.
Maryland issues different types of licenses depending on your age and citizenship status. A standard license is valid for eight years if you're over 65, or five years if you're under 65. You can renew by mail, online, or in person at an MVA office, depending on which option applies to your situation.
Key Takeaways
- You need a Social Security number, proof of Maryland residency, and a birth certificate or passport to get a Maryland license for the first time.
- Maryland offers online renewal for most people, which takes about 10 business days and costs less than renewing in person.
- If your license expires while you're out of state, you can still renew it by mail or online without returning to Maryland.
- Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) require a separate written test and skills test, and cannot be renewed online.
- You must renew your license before it expires; driving on an expired license is illegal, even if you have a renewal process pending.
Getting your first Maryland driver's license
To get your first Maryland license, you'll need to visit an MVA office in person. Bring your Social Security number, proof of Maryland residency (such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days), and proof of identity and date of birth (a birth certificate, passport, or state ID). You'll also need to pass a vision test, a written knowledge test about Maryland traffic laws, and a driving skills test.
The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Maryland Driver's Manual, which the MVA provides free online. The driving test happens at the MVA office with an examiner in your vehicle — you'll drive for about 15 to 20 minutes on local roads.
If you're under 18, Maryland has additional requirements. You must hold a learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. until you turn 18. The learner's permit itself requires parental consent and a written test.
Renewing your license online or by mail
Most people can renew their Maryland license online through the MVA website without visiting an office. You're may be able to access for online renewal if your license is not suspended or revoked, you have no medical restrictions that have changed, and your address hasn't changed. The online process takes about 10 business days and costs $70 for a five-year renewal.
If you don't meet the online requirements, you can renew by mail. You'll fill out form DL-43 (process for Maryland Driver's License), include a new photo, and mail it with your current license and the renewal fee to the address on the form. Mail renewal takes longer — usually three to four weeks — and costs the same as online renewal.
If you're renewing in person at an MVA office, you'll need to bring your current license, proof of residency, and payment. In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes and costs $70. You'll also get a new photo taken at the office.
What happens if your license expires
If your license expires, you cannot legally drive in Maryland or any other state until you renew it. Driving on an expired license is a traffic violation and can result in a fine. If you're pulled over, you may also be cited for driving without a valid license, which is a more serious offense.
You can renew your license up to one year after it expires, but the process is the same as a regular renewal. If more than one year has passed since expiration, you'll need to explore for a new license as if you were a first-time applicant, which means taking the written and driving tests again.
If you realize your license is about to expire, start the renewal process at least two weeks before the expiration date. This gives you time to complete online or mail renewal before the important date, or to schedule an in-person appointment at an MVA office.
Commercial driver's licenses and special endorsements
If you drive a commercial vehicle — such as a truck, bus, or vehicle carrying hazardous materials — you need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) instead of a standard license. A CDL requires a written test on commercial driving rules, a skills test with a commercial vehicle, and a medical examination. You cannot renew a CDL online; you must renew in person at an MVA office.
Maryland also issues endorsements that add to your license, such as a motorcycle endorsement (M), a hazmat endorsement (H), or a passenger endorsement (P). Each endorsement requires an additional written test or skills test. You can add an endorsement when you first get your license or during a renewal.
Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at any MVA office. Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of identity. A replacement costs $30 and takes about 30 minutes. You'll get a new photo taken and receive your replacement license on the spot.
If your license was stolen, you can also report it to the MVA, which will flag it in the system so it cannot be used fraudulently. You don't have to file a police report, but you can if you want a record of the theft.
Changing your address or name on your license
If you move to a new address in Maryland, you must update your license within 60 days. You can do this online through the MVA website if you're only changing your address and have no other changes. Online address changes cost $5 and take about 10 business days.
If you change your name — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — you'll need to visit an MVA office in person. Bring your current license, proof of your new name (such as a marriage certificate or court order), and proof of residency. A name change costs $30 and takes about 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Maryland driver's license for the first time?
Getting your first license takes at least two visits to an MVA office: one to get your learner's permit (if you're under 18) and one to take the driving test. If you're 18 or older, you can do both the written and driving tests in one visit, which takes about one to two hours. After passing, you'll receive your license when ready.
Can I renew my Maryland license if I live out of state?
Yes. You can renew online or by mail without returning to Maryland. Online renewal takes about 10 business days, and mail renewal takes three to four weeks. You cannot renew in person unless you're physically present at an MVA office in Maryland.
What if I fail the driving test?
You can retake the driving test at any time after you fail. There is no waiting period between attempts. Each test costs $10. Most MVA offices allow you to schedule another test appointment the same day or within a few days.
Do I need a new license if I get married or divorced?
You don't have to change your license if you change your name through marriage or divorce, but you can if you want it to match your legal name. If you choose to update it, visit an MVA office with your current license, proof of your new name, and proof of residency. The change costs $30.
What should I do if my license is suspended or revoked?
If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot drive legally in Maryland. Contact the MVA directly to find out why and what steps you need to take to restore it. Suspensions are usually temporary and can be lifted once you meet certain conditions, such as paying fines or completing a driver improvement course. Revocations are more serious and may require a hearing.