Maryland replaces lost or damaged licenses through the Motor Vehicle Administration, and you can start the process online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) handles all driver's license replacements. You do not need to retake the written or road test — a replacement is a straightforward document reissue. The fastest route is usually the MVA's online system if your license was lost or damaged but not suspended or revoked. If you need the license quickly, you can walk into an MVA office the same day; by mail takes about two weeks.
You will need to prove your identity and Maryland residency. A Social Security number is required. The replacement fee is $70 for a standard license, though the cost may vary slightly if you are renewing at the same time. Maryland issues licenses valid for eight years.
Key Takeaways
- You can replace a lost or damaged Maryland license online through the MVA website, by mail, or in person at any MVA office without retaking any tests.
- In-person replacement at an MVA office usually takes less than an hour and you can pick up your temporary license the same day.
- Mail-in replacement takes about two weeks and requires you to send proof of identity and residency along with the replacement fee.
- You will need your Social Security number, proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), and proof of Maryland residency (such as a utility bill or lease).
- If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot use the online or mail-in process and must visit an MVA office in person.
Replacing your license in person at an MVA office
Walking into an MVA office is the fastest option if you need your license the same day. Bring your Social Security number (written down or memorized), a form of photo ID if you have one, and proof of Maryland residency. Acceptable residency documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your current address.
The MVA will issue you a temporary paper license on the spot, valid for 30 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed to you. The permanent license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You can use the temporary license to drive when ready. The replacement fee of $70 is paid at the counter. MVA offices are open Monday through Friday, and some locations have Saturday hours — check the MVA website for your nearest office and current hours before you go.
Bring your documents in original form; copies are not accepted for proof of residency. If you do not have a photo ID, bring two forms of non-photo identification instead, such as a Social Security card and a birth certificate.
Replacing your license by mail
Mail-in replacement works if you can wait about two weeks. read the process for Maryland Driver's License or Permit (Form DL 43) from the MVA website, fill it out completely, and mail it along with your replacement fee ($70, payable by check or money order), a photocopy of your proof of identity, and a photocopy of your proof of residency.
Send the packet to the address listed on the form — currently the MVA's mail processing center in Glen Burnie. Include a note explaining that your license was lost or damaged. The MVA will process your process and mail your new license to the address on file. Do not send cash. If your address has changed since your last license was issued, include a separate letter with your new address and sign it.
Mail-in processing typically takes 10 to 14 business days after the MVA receives your packet, plus mail delivery time both ways. This route is slower but useful if you cannot visit an office or prefer not to.
Replacing your license online through the MVA website
The MVA's online replacement system is available at mva.maryland.gov if your license was lost or damaged and is still valid (not suspended, revoked, or expired more than one year ago). You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method (credit or debit card). The $70 fee is charged when ready.
The online process takes about 10 minutes. After you submit, the MVA mails your replacement license to the address on file. You will not receive a temporary license, so you cannot drive until the new card arrives — typically 7 to 10 business days. This option is most useful if you do not need to drive right away and prefer to avoid an office visit.
If your license number is not in the system or you cannot remember it, you will need to use the mail-in or in-person route instead.
What to do if your license was suspended or revoked
If your license was suspended or revoked (for unpaid tickets, DUI, or other violations), you cannot use the online or mail-in replacement process. You must visit an MVA office in person. A staff member will review your case and tell you what steps are required before a replacement can be issued — this might include paying outstanding fines, completing a safety course, or waiting out a suspension period.
Bring all the same documents you would for a standard in-person replacement: proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The MVA office can tell you over the phone whether your license is currently suspended or revoked if you call ahead.
Replacing an expired license versus a lost or damaged one
If your license expired more than one year ago, the MVA treats it as a renewal rather than a replacement, and you may need to retake the written test. If your license expired within the last year and was lost or damaged, you can replace it without retesting. The online and mail-in systems will reject applications for licenses expired more than one year ago, so you will need to visit an MVA office to determine whether you need to renew or replace.
At the office, bring your expired license if you still have it, along with your standard proof of identity and residency. The MVA staff will tell you which process applies to your situation.
Temporary license and driving while your replacement is in transit
If you replace your license in person, you receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. This temporary is a legal driving document and satisfies police during traffic stops. Keep it with you until your permanent card arrives. If you replace by mail or online, you do not receive a temporary, so you cannot legally drive until the new license arrives in the mail.
If you need to drive before your replacement arrives and you chose mail-in or online replacement, your only option is to visit an MVA office in person to get a temporary license issued on the spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement license in Maryland?
In-person replacement gives you a temporary license the same day and a permanent card within 7 to 10 business days. Mail-in takes 10 to 14 business days for processing plus mail delivery time. Online replacement takes 7 to 10 business days for mailing only, with no temporary license issued.
Can I replace my license if I do not have a photo ID?
Yes. Bring two forms of non-photo identification instead, such as a Social Security card, birth certificate, or passport card. The MVA accepts these in place of a single photo ID.
What if my address has changed since my last license?
At an MVA office, tell the staff member and they will update your address during replacement. By mail, include a separate signed letter with your new address. Online, you can update your address during the process process before you submit.
Do I have to pay the full replacement fee if my license is damaged but still readable?
Yes, the replacement fee is $70 regardless of whether the license is lost or damaged. There is no reduced fee for partial damage.
Can someone else pick up my temporary license if I cannot go to the MVA office?
No, you must be present in person to receive a temporary license. A representative cannot pick it up on your behalf. If you cannot visit an office, your only option is mail-in or online replacement, which do not include a temporary.