Get a replacement Maryland driver's license by visiting the Motor Vehicle Administration in person with proof of identity and residency
Maryland requires you to appear in person at a Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office to replace a lost driver's license. You cannot do this by mail or online. The MVA will issue you a new license with the same number as your original, though the expiration date may change depending on your age and when your current license was issued.
The process takes about 30 minutes at the office, though wait times vary by location and time of day. You'll pay a replacement fee (currently $70 for a standard license, though this may vary), and you can request a temporary paper license to use while you wait for the plastic card to arrive by mail, which typically takes 7 to 10 business days.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit an MVA office in person with a valid form of ID and proof of your current Maryland address.
- Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, as the MVA will verify your identity against state records.
- The replacement fee is $70 for a standard driver's license, and you can request a temporary paper license to use when ready.
- Your new plastic license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; the temporary license is valid during that time.
- MVA offices are open Monday through Friday, with some locations offering Saturday hours; check your local office's schedule before you go.
What documents you need to bring
Bring one primary form of ID that shows your current legal name. Acceptable documents include a valid passport, a valid out-of-state driver's license, a military ID, or a permanent resident card. If your name has changed since your original Maryland license was issued, bring a document proving the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
You also need proof of your current Maryland address. The MVA accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail (such as a tax return or voter registration card) dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill does not count. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from them confirming you live there, along with the bill itself.
Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form. The MVA uses this to verify your identity against state and federal records. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.
Finding and visiting an MVA office
Maryland has 26 MVA offices across the state. Use the office locator on the MVA website (mva.maryland.gov) to find the one nearest you and check its hours. Some offices are open Monday through Friday only, while others offer Saturday hours. A few locations have extended evening hours on certain days.
You do not need an appointment at most MVA offices, but you can reserve a time slot online if your local office offers it. Reserving a slot does not may provide you will be seen at that time, but it can reduce your wait. Walk-ins are always accepted. Arrive early in the day or on a weekday if possible, as afternoons and Saturdays tend to be busier.
Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get separated. The MVA staff will ask you to sign a form confirming your information, take a new photo (unless you request to use your old one), and process your payment. If you wear glasses or contacts for driving, wear them for your new photo.
Requesting a temporary license
Ask the MVA staff for a temporary paper license before you leave the office. This is a printed document that is valid for 45 days and allows you to drive legally while your plastic license is in the mail. You do not pay extra for it. The temporary license shows your name, address, license number, and expiration date, and it is recognized by law enforcement and rental car companies.
Keep the temporary license with you whenever you drive. If you are stopped by police, show them the temporary license along with your primary ID. Some insurance companies may ask to see it as proof that you have a valid license. If your plastic license does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the MVA to report it.
What happens if your license arrives damaged or with errors
If your new license arrives with a misspelled name, wrong address, or other error, return to an MVA office with the damaged or incorrect license and your primary ID. The MVA will issue a corrected license at no additional charge if the error was made by the MVA. If the error was due to information you provided, you may be charged another replacement fee.
If your plastic license arrives damaged (cracked, bent, or faded), the MVA will replace it for free within 30 days of the issue date. Bring the damaged license and your primary ID to any MVA office. After 30 days, a replacement for damage is treated as a new replacement and costs the standard $70 fee.
If you cannot visit an MVA office in person
Maryland does not allow mail-in replacements or online replacements for lost licenses. However, if you are unable to visit an office due to a medical condition or disability, you may be able to request a home visit or use a power of attorney. Contact your local MVA office directly to discuss your situation. Some offices can accommodate requests for people with mobility issues or severe illness, though availability varies.
If you are outside Maryland and need to replace your license before you return, you cannot do so remotely. You must visit an MVA office in person. If your license is lost while you are traveling, contact the MVA by phone at 410-768-7000 to ask about your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a photo from my old license instead of taking a new one?
Yes. When you visit the MVA office, you can request to use your old photo instead of having a new one taken. This is useful if your appearance has not changed much or if you prefer your old photo. The staff will ask you directly, so mention it when you arrive.
What if I lost my license and my Social Security card at the same time?
Bring a different document showing your Social Security number, such as a W-2, tax return, or 1099 form. If you do not have any of these, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card first, or ask the MVA if you can provide an alternative form of identity verification.
Do I need to renew my license if I am replacing a lost one?
No. Your replacement license will have the same expiration date as your original license. You only pay the $70 replacement fee, not a renewal fee. If your original license was expiring soon, you can renew it at the same time for an additional fee, but this is optional.
How long does the plastic license take to arrive if I do not request a temporary one?
The plastic license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Without a temporary license, you cannot legally drive during this time. It is strongly recommended that you request the temporary paper license before leaving the MVA office.
What if someone else finds my lost license and tries to use it?
Once you report your license lost and receive a replacement, your old license is deactivated in the MVA system. If someone tries to use it, law enforcement can verify that it is no longer valid. Report your lost license to the MVA as soon as you realize it is missing by calling 410-768-7000.