Where to renew and what documents you need
You can renew your Maryland driver's license in person at any Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office, or online through the MVA website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route works for almost everyone; the online route is faster but only available if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and you have not had any violations or address changes since your last renewal.
For an in-person renewal, bring your current driver's license, proof of Maryland residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. If your name has changed since your last license, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change. You do not need a new photo unless your current license photo is more than 15 years old or you request one.
For an online renewal, you will need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method. The process takes about 10 minutes, and your renewed license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal is available only if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and your record shows no violations or address changes since your last renewal.
- In-person renewal requires your current license, proof of Maryland residency dated within 60 days, and your Social Security number.
- MVA offices are located in every Maryland county, and you can find wait times and book an appointment on the MVA website.
- A renewed license is valid for eight years from the date of issue, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.
- If your license is already expired, you must renew in person and may need to retake the written test depending on how long it has been expired.
How long the process takes and when to start
Online renewal is the fastest option: you submit your information and payment, and your new license arrives in 7 to 10 business days. In-person renewal at an MVA office typically takes 30 minutes to two hours depending on wait times, though you can book an appointment online to reduce the wait.
You can renew your license up to one year before it expires, so there is no rush. However, if your license is already expired, you must renew in person. If it has been expired for more than two years, you will need to retake the written knowledge test and may need to pass a vision screening as well.
The MVA website shows real-time wait times at each office location. If you prefer not to wait, you can book an appointment online, which reserves a specific time slot. Appointments typically fill up one to two weeks in advance during busy seasons.
The cost of renewal and payment methods
A standard eight-year driver's license renewal costs $70 if you renew online or in person. If you need a new photo (because your current one is more than 15 years old or you request one), the cost remains $70. There is no additional fee for a name change.
You can pay by credit card, debit card, or electronic check online. At an MVA office, you can pay by cash, check, credit card, or debit card. The MVA does not accept payment plans or installments; the full amount is due at the time of renewal.
What happens if your license is expired
If your license has been expired for less than two years, you can renew it in person without retaking any tests. You will need to bring the same documents as a standard renewal: your expired license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.
If your license has been expired for two years or longer, you must retake the written knowledge test and pass a vision screening before the MVA will issue a new license. You will also need to bring the same documents. The knowledge test covers Maryland traffic laws and road signs, and you can study using the MVA's free online study guide.
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Maryland, even if you have submitted a renewal request. If you are stopped by police, you can show proof that you have a renewal process pending, but this does not may provide you will avoid a citation.
Renewing online versus in person
Online renewal is simpler and faster, but it is not available to everyone. You can only renew online if all of the following are true: your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions on your license, you have not had any traffic violations or suspensions since your last renewal, and your address has not changed. If any of these conditions do not explore to you, you must renew in person.
In-person renewal takes longer but handles more complex situations. If you have had a name change, address change, or medical restriction added to your license, you must renew in person. The same applies if your license is expired or if you need a new photo.
Both routes result in the same eight-year license. The only difference is how long it takes and what situations each route can handle.
What to do if you lose your license before renewal
If your license is lost or stolen before you renew it, you can request a replacement at any MVA office. Bring proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The replacement license costs $20 and is issued on the spot.
If your license is lost and also expired or expiring soon, you can renew it at the same time. The renewal fee ($70) and replacement fee ($20) are charged together, for a total of $90. You will receive a new license with a new expiration date eight years from the date of issue.
Renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL)
Commercial driver's licenses have different renewal rules than standard licenses. A CDL must be renewed in person at an MVA office; online renewal is not available. You must bring your current CDL, proof of residency, your Social Security number, and medical certification (a form completed by a licensed medical examiner). The medical certification must be current; if it has expired, you must obtain a new one before renewing.
A CDL renewal costs $70, the same as a standard license. However, if your medical certification has expired or you need a new one, you will need to schedule a medical examination with a certified examiner, which is a separate process and may have additional costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or unpaid fine?
You can renew your license even if you have an outstanding ticket or fine. However, if you have an active suspension related to unpaid fines or a conviction, the MVA will not issue a renewal until the suspension is lifted. Contact the MVA or the court that issued the suspension to find out how to resolve it.
What if my address changed since my last renewal?
If your address has changed, you must renew in person. Bring your current license, proof of your new Maryland residency (a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days), and your Social Security number. The MVA will update your address and issue a new license with the same expiration date as your current license.
Do I need to take a new photo when I renew?
A new photo is required only if your current license photo is more than 15 years old. Otherwise, the MVA will use your existing photo unless you request a new one. If you want a new photo, you can request one at the time of renewal for no additional fee.
How long is a renewed license valid?
A renewed Maryland driver's license is valid for eight years from the date it is issued. Your expiration date will be printed on the front of the license. You can renew up to one year before expiration, so you do not have to wait until the last day.
What if I moved out of Maryland after my last renewal?
If you no longer live in Maryland, you cannot renew your Maryland license. You must obtain a driver's license from your new state of residency. If you still own property in Maryland or have other ties to the state, contact the MVA to discuss your options.