Where to get a Montgomery driver's license
In Montgomery County, Maryland, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues driver's licenses. In Montgomery County, Alabama, the county probate office handles driver's licenses. The process and location depend entirely on which state you live in, so confirm your state first.
If you are in Montgomery County, Maryland, you visit a DMV office in the county to explore for or renew your license. The main office is located in Rockville, but satellite offices operate in other parts of the county. If you are in Montgomery County, Alabama, you go to the county probate office in Montgomery (the city).
Both locations require you to bring specific documents and complete forms in person. Neither accepts online-only applications for a new license, though some renewal options may be available by mail or online depending on your situation and which state you are in.
Key Takeaways
- Maryland's Montgomery County DMV and Alabama's Montgomery County probate office are separate agencies with different rules, so confirm which state you are in before you go.
- You must appear in person for a new driver's license in both states, though some renewals may be handled by mail or online.
- Bring a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or documentation of your immigration status.
- Processing times vary by location and season; calling ahead or checking the office website tells you current wait times and whether you need an appointment.
Documents you need for a new license in Maryland
Maryland's DMV requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number or immigration status. A valid passport, military ID, or previous Maryland license counts as proof of identity. A utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days counts as proof of residency.
You also need to complete the Maryland process for Driver's License or Permit (Form DL 040). The DMV provides this form at the office, or you can read it from the Maryland DMV website before you go. Bring the completed form with you.
If you are under 18, you need a parent or guardian to sign the process. If you have a learner's permit, bring it. If you are renewing and your license is not expired or will not expire within 30 days, some renewals can be done by mail instead of in person.
Documents you need for a new license in Alabama
Alabama's probate office requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. A valid passport, military ID, or previous Alabama license counts as proof of identity. A utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days counts as proof of residency.
You must complete an Alabama Driver's License process (Form DL-44). The probate office provides this form, or you can get it from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency website. Bring the completed form and all required documents with you.
If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present. If you hold a learner's permit, bring it. Alabama does not offer mail-in renewals for new licenses, so you must appear in person.
Fees and processing time
Maryland charges a fee for a new driver's license that varies based on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard license valid for eight years costs one amount; a license valid for five years costs less. The DMV accepts cash, check, and card. Processing usually takes a few minutes if you have all documents, though wait times at busy offices can extend this.
Alabama charges a separate fee for a new license, also varying by license type and validity period. The probate office accepts cash and check. Processing time is typically the same day if you arrive during office hours and have all documents, but wait times vary by season and time of day.
Both states issue a temporary paper license on the spot while your permanent card is printed and mailed to you. The permanent card usually arrives within two to four weeks. Call the office or check the website to confirm current fees, as they change periodically.
Renewing your license by mail or online
Maryland allows some drivers to renew by mail or online through the DMV website. You are usually may be able to access if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and you have not had certain violations. The online renewal process takes about 15 minutes and costs less than in-person renewal. Your new card is mailed to you.
Alabama does not offer mail-in or online renewal for driver's licenses. You must renew in person at the probate office. However, if your license is not yet expired and you meet other requirements, you may be able to renew early in person to avoid a trip later.
Check the Maryland DMV website or call the Alabama probate office to confirm whether you are may be able to access for mail or online renewal before you make a trip to the office.
What to do if you lost your license or it was stolen
In Maryland, report a lost or stolen license to the DMV and request a replacement. You can do this in person at a DMV office or by mail. You will need to complete a replacement process and pay a replacement fee, which is usually lower than the fee for a new license. A temporary paper license is issued when ready, and your replacement card is mailed within two to four weeks.
In Alabama, go to the probate office in person to report a lost or stolen license and request a replacement. Bring your Social Security card or proof of your Social Security number and proof of residency. You will pay a replacement fee and receive a temporary paper license on the spot while your replacement card is mailed.
If your license was stolen as part of identity theft, report it to the police and get a report number. Bring the report to the DMV or probate office; it may help you recover faster and protect your record.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment to get a driver's license in Montgomery?
Maryland's Montgomery County DMV offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis at some locations and by appointment at others. Check the specific office's website or call ahead to learn whether you need an appointment. Alabama's Montgomery County probate office typically operates first-come, first-served, but calling ahead tells you current wait times.
Can I renew my license if it has already expired?
In Maryland, you can renew an expired license in person at the DMV. Online and mail renewal are not available for expired licenses. In Alabama, you can renew an expired license in person at the probate office. Both states allow you to renew even if your license is several years past expiration, though you may need to retake the written test if it has been very long.
What if I moved to Montgomery from another state?
You must get a new driver's license from your current state within a set timeframe, usually 30 to 60 days. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of residency in Montgomery, and your Social Security card or proof of your number. You will take a new written test and vision test. Your out-of-state license will be surrendered.
How long does it take to get my permanent license card in the mail?
Both Maryland and Alabama typically mail your permanent card within two to four weeks of your visit. During busy seasons or if there are processing delays, it may take longer. You can use your temporary paper license to drive legally while you wait. If your card does not arrive within six weeks, contact the DMV or probate office to check the status.