Where to renew and what you'll need

You can renew your Maryland driver's license in person at any Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office, or online through the MVA website if you meet certain conditions. The online route is faster — you can complete it from home in about 15 minutes — but it's only open to people whose licenses haven't been suspended or revoked, who don't need to update their address, and whose licenses expire more than 60 days away.

If you go in person, bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. You do not need to bring your Social Security card itself, just the number. If your address has changed since your last license, bring two documents showing your new address.

The MVA accepts appointments online through its website, and you can also walk in without one. Appointments typically move faster, especially during busy seasons, but walk-in service is available at all locations.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal takes 15 minutes and costs less than in-person renewal, but only works if your license is valid, your address hasn't changed, and it won't expire within 60 days.
  • In-person renewal requires your current license, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number, and takes about 30 to 45 minutes at an MVA office.
  • You can book an appointment online through the MVA website or walk in without one, though appointments usually move faster.
  • Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after in-person renewal, or within 10 business days after online renewal.
  • Maryland driver's licenses expire on your birthday, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.

Renewing online through the MVA website

To renew online, go to the Maryland MVA website and select the online renewal option. You'll enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity and show you whether you're may be able to access to renew online.

If you're may be able to access, you'll review your current information, confirm or update your emergency contact, and pay the renewal fee using a credit or debit card. The fee for a standard five-year license is $109. You'll receive a confirmation number when ready, and your new license will be mailed to the address on file.

Online renewal is only available if your license is currently valid, your address hasn't changed, and your license won't expire within the next 60 days. If any of these conditions don't explore to you, you'll need to renew in person.

Renewing in person at an MVA office

To renew in person, visit any Maryland MVA office with your current license, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number. You can book an appointment online through the MVA website by selecting your preferred location and time, or you can walk in during business hours.

At the office, you'll fill out form DL-43 (the driver's license process). The MVA staff will verify your information, take a new photo, and process your renewal. The entire visit usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Weekday mornings are typically less crowded than afternoons or weekends.

The fee for a standard five-year license is $109. You can pay with cash, check, debit card, or credit card. Your new license will be mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days.

What happens if your license has expired

If your license has already expired, you cannot renew it online. You must go to an MVA office in person. Bring the same documents: your expired license, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number.

The process is the same as a standard renewal, and the fee remains $109 for a five-year license. However, if your license expired more than one year ago, you may need to take a written test and vision test in addition to the renewal process. Contact your local MVA office or check the website to confirm what's required for your specific situation.

Understanding license types and expiration dates

Maryland offers several license types: a standard five-year license, a Real ID-compliant license (also five years), and a commercial driver's license (CDL). Most people renew a standard license. Your license expires on your birthday, and you can renew it up to one year before that date.

If you want to upgrade to a Real ID-compliant license during renewal, you'll need to bring additional documents: a birth certificate or passport, and two documents proving your current address. Real ID licenses cost the same as standard licenses but are required for federal air travel and entry to federal buildings starting in 2025. You can renew to a Real ID license either online or in person.

After your renewal is processed

Once you renew, you'll receive a confirmation number. If you renewed online, you'll see it on your screen. If you renewed in person, the MVA staff will give it to you on a receipt. Keep this number in case you need to check the status of your new license.

Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. During this time, you can still drive using your old license. If your new license doesn't arrive within two weeks, contact the MVA using your confirmation number to report it.

When your new license arrives, destroy your old one by cutting it in half. You do not need to return it to the MVA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I've moved out of state?

No. You must renew your Maryland license in person at an MVA office if you still live in Maryland. If you've moved to another state, you should obtain a driver's license from that state instead. Contact your new state's motor vehicle department for their renewal process.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

You must renew in person and bring documentation of your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The MVA will not process a name change online. Bring this document along with your current license, proof of address, and Social Security number.

Do I need a new photo if I renew online?

No. Online renewal uses your photo from your current license. If you renew in person, the MVA will take a new photo as part of the process.

What if I lost my current license?

You cannot renew a lost license online. You must go to an MVA office in person and report it lost. Bring proof of your identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), proof of your current address, and your Social Security number. You'll pay a replacement fee in addition to the renewal fee.

Can someone else renew my license for me?

No. You must renew your license yourself, either online or in person. The MVA does not allow someone else to renew on your behalf, even with a power of attorney.