You can replace a lost Maryland driver's license in person at an MVA office or by mail, depending on your situation and how quickly you need it
Maryland's Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) handles lost license replacements through two main routes: in-person at a local MVA office or by mail. The in-person method is faster — typically same-day or within a few days — but requires you to visit during business hours. The mail route takes two to three weeks but works if you cannot get to an office or prefer to handle it remotely. Both methods cost the same: $70 for a standard license or $100 for a Real ID-compliant license.
The documents you need are the same regardless of method. You will need proof of identity (your Social Security card, birth certificate, or passport), proof of Maryland residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and payment. If you are replacing a license that was lost rather than expired, you do not need a new photo unless your current license photo is more than eight years old.
Key Takeaways
- In-person replacement at an MVA office takes one to three business days and costs $70 for a standard license or $100 for Real ID.
- Mail replacement takes two to three weeks and requires the same documents as in-person, mailed to the MVA with a completed form.
- You will need proof of identity, proof of Maryland residency dated within 60 days, and payment by check or money order if using mail.
- If your lost license was reported to police or you suspect fraud, request a police report number and include it with your process.
- Real ID licenses cost more but are required for federal building access and domestic air travel starting May 2025.
In-Person Replacement at an MVA Office
Walk into any MVA office with your documents and payment, and you can leave with a temporary license the same day. The temporary license is valid for 30 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed to you. Bring your Social Security card or birth certificate, a recent utility bill or lease showing your current address, and either a debit card, credit card, or cash. Some offices accept checks, but call ahead to confirm.
The MVA has offices in Baltimore, Annapolis, Bowie, Hagerstown, Salisbury, and several other locations across the state. Hours vary by location — most are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with some Saturday hours. You do not need an appointment for a replacement, but arriving early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits. The MVA website lists all office locations and current wait times.
When you arrive, take a number at the front desk and wait to be called. Tell the representative you are replacing a lost license. They will verify your identity, check your driving record, and take a new photo if your current one is eight years old or older. If your photo is recent enough, they will use the existing one from your records. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
Mail Replacement Using Form DL-43
To replace your license by mail, read or request Form DL-43 (process for Maryland Driver's License or Permit) from the MVA website. Complete the form with your name, date of birth, address, and signature. Include copies of your proof of identity and proof of residency — photocopies are acceptable. Write a check or money order for $70 (standard) or $100 (Real ID) payable to "Maryland MVA."
Mail the completed form, copies of your documents, and payment to: Motor Vehicle Administration, 6601 Ritchie Highway, Glen Burnie, MD 21062. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the MVA receives your envelope. Your new license will be mailed to the address you provide on the form. If you need it faster, this method is not the right choice — use in-person replacement instead.
Keep copies of everything you send. If your process is rejected because a document is unclear or missing, the MVA will contact you by mail, which adds another week or more to the timeline. Sending documents certified mail or with tracking is optional but helpful if you want proof of delivery.
Real ID Versus Standard License: Which One to Order
A standard Maryland driver's license costs $70 and works for driving and most identification purposes. A Real ID-compliant license costs $100 and is required for federal building access (including federal courthouses and some government offices) and domestic air travel. Starting May 7, 2025, you cannot board a domestic flight with a standard driver's license — you will need either a Real ID license, a passport, or a military ID.
If you travel by air or visit federal buildings, order the Real ID version now. The extra $30 is a one-time cost, and you will not need to replace it again when the May 2025 important date arrives. If you rarely fly and do not visit federal offices, the standard license is sufficient. You can always upgrade to Real ID later when your current license expires.
Both versions are replaced using the same process. straightforward tell the MVA representative (in person) or check the appropriate box on Form DL-43 (by mail) which type you want. Real ID requires the same documents as standard, with no additional paperwork.
What to Do If Your License Was Stolen or Fraudulently Used
If you believe your lost license was stolen or used fraudulently, file a police report before or when ready after requesting a replacement. Get the report number from the police department and include it with your replacement process. The MVA uses this information to flag your account and monitor for suspicious activity.
When you explore in person, mention the police report to the MVA representative. They will note it in your file. If explore by mail, write the report number on Form DL-43 or in a separate note included with your process. This step does not change the replacement process or timeline, but it creates a record that protects you if someone tries to use your lost license for fraud.
If you discover fraudulent charges or identity theft related to your lost license, contact the Maryland State Police or your local police department to file an additional report. Keep documentation of any fraudulent activity and report it to your bank and credit card companies as well.
Temporary License and Permanent Card Timeline
When you replace your license in person, you receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. This temporary license has the same legal standing as a permanent card for driving, identification, and most other purposes. Your permanent plastic card is printed at a facility in Glen Burnie and mailed to your address within five to seven business days. Most people receive it within two weeks.
If you do not receive your permanent card within three weeks of your in-person visit, contact the MVA to check the status. Provide your driver's license number or Social Security number. Cards are occasionally lost in the mail, and the MVA can reissue one if needed. If explore by mail, your permanent card is your only card — there is no temporary version — so the two to three week wait is the full timeline.
Do not discard your temporary license once your permanent card arrives. Keep both until you are certain the permanent card works in all the systems you use it for (banks, government offices, etc.). Once you confirm the permanent card is valid, you can throw away the temporary one.
Documents You Need: The Complete List
| Document Type | What Counts | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | Social Security card, birth certificate, U.S. passport, military ID, or naturalization papers | Original or certified copy. Social Security card is most common. |
| Proof of Residency | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail | Must be dated within the last 60 days and show your current address. |
| Payment | Cash, debit card, credit card, check, or money order | In-person: all methods accepted. By mail: check or money order only. Payable to "Maryland MVA." |
| Form DL-43 | Completed process form | Required for mail replacement only. In-person, staff will complete it for you. |
| Police Report (optional) | Report number if license was stolen or fraudulently used | Include with process to flag your account for fraud monitoring. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a replacement license if I am not a Maryland resident but lost my Maryland license?
Yes. You can replace it by mail from anywhere in the country. You will still need proof of the address that was on your lost license (or your current Maryland address if you have moved). If you have moved out of state, use your current address as your new Maryland address, and the MVA will mail your replacement there.
What if I do not have a Social Security card or birth certificate?
You can use a U.S. passport, military ID, or naturalization papers as proof of identity instead. If you have none of these, contact the MVA before explore — they may accept other documents on a case-by-case basis, but it is best to confirm first.
How long is a replacement license valid?
A replacement license is valid for the same expiration date as your original lost license. If your original license was set to expire in 2027, your replacement will also expire in 2027. You do not get a fresh expiration date just because you are replacing it.
Can someone else pick up my temporary license if I explore in person?
No. Only you can receive your temporary license. You must be present at the MVA office to sign for it and receive it. Your permanent card, however, will be mailed to your address, so anyone at that address can receive it.
What if my address has changed since I lost my license?
Provide your current address on the replacement process. Your new license will show your current address, and your permanent card will be mailed there. You do not need to update your address separately — the replacement process handles it.