How to Replace a Lost Driver's License in Maryland

Get a replacement license at the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration

If you've lost your Maryland driver's license, you can get a replacement at any Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office. You don't need to retake the written or road test — the MVA will issue you a new card with the same license number and expiration date as your original. The process takes about 15 minutes in person, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

You have two main routes: visit an MVA office in person, or order a replacement online through the MVA website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route is faster if you need the license when ready. The online route takes 7 to 10 business days for delivery by mail, but you can do it from home without waiting in line.

Key Takeaways

Visit any Maryland MVA office with your Social Security number and proof of residency to get a replacement license on the spot.
You can order a replacement online through the MVA website for $10, but you must have a valid Social Security number on file and no address changes pending.
A replacement license costs $10 and will have the same expiration date as your original license.
Bring an acceptable form of ID (passport, military ID, or state ID card) if you're replacing your license in person.
If your license was stolen rather than lost, you may want to report it to police first, though it's not required to get a replacement.

Replace your license in person at an MVA office

Walk into any Maryland MVA office with the documents listed below, and you'll walk out with a replacement license. No appointment is needed, though you can schedule one online to skip the wait. The office will take your photo, print your new card, and hand it to you before you leave. The fee is $10, paid by cash, check, debit card, or credit card.

Bring these documents: your Social Security number (written down or memorized), one form of proof of residency (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and one acceptable form of ID (U.S. passport, military ID, state ID card, or federal employee ID). If you don't have any of these forms of ID, bring two documents from the MVA's secondary ID list, which includes items like a birth certificate, Social Security card, or insurance card.

If your address has changed since your original license was issued, bring proof of your current address. If you've changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). If you don't have these documents, the MVA can still issue a replacement, but it will show your old address or name until you update it separately.

Order a replacement online if you meet the requirements

The MVA's online replacement service is available at mva.maryland.gov under the "Driver's License" section. You can order a replacement if you have a valid Social Security number on file with the MVA, your address hasn't changed since your license was issued, and your license hasn't expired more than two years ago. The cost is $10, paid by credit or debit card only.

The process takes about five minutes: log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, confirm your information, and pay. Your replacement license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You'll receive a confirmation email with a tracking number. During this time, you can still drive if you have a copy of your confirmation email or the tracking number — carry it with you in case you're stopped.

If you don't meet these requirements — for example, if your address has changed or your Social Security number isn't on file — you'll need to visit an MVA office in person instead.

Find an MVA office near you and check wait times

Maryland has 26 MVA offices across the state. You can find the one nearest you on the MVA website at mva.maryland.gov under "Office Locations." Each office lists its hours, phone number, and address. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., though some have extended hours or Saturday appointments.

The MVA website also shows real-time wait times for each office, updated every 15 minutes. If one office has a long wait, you can check a nearby location and go there instead. The busiest times are typically mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays. If you want to avoid the wait entirely, you can schedule an appointment online, which reserves a specific time slot and usually cuts your wait to under 10 minutes.

What to do if your license was stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost, you can report it to your local police department, though it's not required to get a replacement. A police report creates an official record in case the license is used fraudulently. You can file the report online through your police department's website, by phone, or in person — online is usually fastest.

Whether or not you file a report, follow the same steps to get a replacement: visit an MVA office or order online. There's no separate process for stolen licenses. If you're concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them. This makes it harder for someone to open accounts in your name.

Understand your temporary driving status while waiting

If you ordered your replacement online, you can drive while you wait for it to arrive. Carry your confirmation email or tracking number with you — it counts as proof that you've ordered a replacement. If a police officer stops you, show them the email or tracking number. Most officers will accept it, though technically you're required to have your physical license with you.

If you lost your license and haven't ordered a replacement yet, you should not drive. Driving without a license is illegal in Maryland, even if you own a valid license that you've straightforward misplaced. Get a replacement first, either in person or online, before you drive again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license the same day I visit an MVA office?

Yes. When you visit in person, the MVA prints your new license while you wait and gives it to you before you leave. The entire process takes about 15 minutes, though you may wait longer depending on how busy the office is that day.

What if my license expired while I was waiting for the replacement?

Your replacement license will have the same expiration date as your original license, even if that date has already passed. You'll need to renew your license separately at an MVA office or online. Bring your replacement license and proof of residency to renew.

Do I have to report my lost license to the police?

No, reporting it to police is optional. However, if you're concerned the license might be used fraudulently, a police report creates an official record. You can file online, by phone, or in person with your local police department.

Can I get a replacement if I don't have a Social Security number?

Yes, but you must visit an MVA office in person. Bring your passport or other federal ID instead of a Social Security number. The MVA can issue a replacement without a Social Security number on file, though the process may take slightly longer.

What if I lost my license out of state?

You can still get a replacement from Maryland. Visit the MVA website to order online, or contact an MVA office by phone to ask about mailing in your documents. You cannot visit an out-of-state office — replacements must be handled through Maryland's MVA.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.