Where to go and what to bring
You replace a Maryland driver's license at your local Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office. Maryland has about 25 MVA branches across the state, plus a few satellite locations in shopping centers and government buildings. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the MVA website at mva.maryland.gov.
Bring your current license if you still have it, or a state ID card. You will also need proof of your Social Security number — a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return works. Bring one document proving your current address: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. 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 an appointment at most MVA offices, but you can reserve a time slot online to skip the walk-in line. The MVA's online reservation system lets you pick a date and time up to 30 days ahead. Walk-ins are served on a first-come, first-served basis and wait times vary by location and time of day.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit an MVA office in person; Maryland does not allow mail-in or online replacement of a driver's license.
- Bring your current license or state ID, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address dated within 60 days.
- You can reserve a time slot online at mva.maryland.gov up to 30 days in advance to avoid waiting in line.
- A replacement license costs $70 and is valid for eight years from the date of issue, the same as a new license.
- Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days; you can request a temporary paper license to drive when ready.
Cost and payment methods
A replacement Maryland driver's license costs $70. You can pay with cash, debit card, or credit card at the MVA office. Some locations also accept checks, but calling ahead to confirm is wise if you plan to pay by check.
The $70 fee covers a standard license valid for eight years. If your license was suspended, revoked, or expired more than two years ago, you may face additional requirements or fees — the MVA office can tell you when you arrive or you can call ahead to ask.
How long it takes to receive your new license
After you complete your replacement at the MVA office, your new license is mailed to the address you provided. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive before your new license arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at the time of replacement — this temporary is valid for 45 days and is accepted by law enforcement and for most identification purposes.
If you do not receive your license within 10 business days, contact the MVA at 410-787-7758 (Baltimore area) or 1-888-769-0100 (toll-free). Have your confirmation number or Social Security number ready when you call.
Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license
The process is the same whether your license is lost, stolen, or damaged. You go to an MVA office with the documents listed above and pay the $70 fee. You do not need to file a police report for a lost or stolen license, though you may want to for your own records if the license was stolen along with other items.
If your license was damaged — for example, the photo is faded or the card is cracked — bring the damaged license with you. The MVA staff will inspect it and may ask why it needs replacement. Wear and tear from normal use is usually accepted as a reason for replacement.
Replacing an expired license
If your license expired fewer than two years ago, you can replace it using the standard process described above. If your license expired more than two years ago, you may be required to pass a vision test or written knowledge test, depending on how long it has been expired and your age. Call the MVA before you go to confirm what tests you will need.
If you are over 70 years old, Maryland requires a vision test every time you renew or replace your license. Bring your glasses or contacts if you use them. The MVA office has a vision screening machine on-site.
What happens if your name has changed
If you have married, divorced, or legally changed your name since your last license was issued, bring the document proving the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The MVA will update your name on your new license at no extra charge.
If the name on your Social Security card does not match the name on your license, the MVA may ask you to update your Social Security record first. You can do this at your local Social Security office or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Bring the same documents you would bring to the MVA — proof of your identity and proof of the name change.
Replacing a license with a different address
When you replace your license, you can update your address at the same time. Bring proof of your new address dated within 60 days — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement. The MVA will print your new address on your replacement license at no extra cost.
You do not have to replace your license to change your address. You can update your address online at mva.maryland.gov or by mail using the address change form. However, if you are replacing your license anyway, doing both at once saves a trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license by mail?
No. Maryland requires you to appear in person at an MVA office to replace a driver's license. You cannot mail in a replacement request or handle it online. However, you can reserve a time slot online to minimize your wait time at the office.
What if I do not have proof of my Social Security number?
You must bring one of these documents: Social Security card, W-2, tax return, or 1099 form. If you do not have any of these, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to request a replacement card or a letter stating your number. This can take several weeks, so plan ahead.
Can I get my license the same day?
No. Your new license is mailed to you and arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You can request a temporary paper license valid for 45 days to drive while you wait for your permanent license to arrive in the mail.
What if I moved out of state but still have a Maryland license?
You can replace your Maryland license by mail if you have moved out of state and cannot visit an MVA office. Contact the MVA at 410-787-7758 or 1-888-769-0100 to request a mail-in replacement form. You will need to provide the same documents as an in-person replacement and pay the $70 fee.
Do I need a new license if I just want to update my photo?
No. A photo update is not the same as a replacement. You can request a new photo on your existing license at an MVA office for a lower fee. Ask about photo renewal when you visit or call ahead to confirm the cost and whether you need an appointment.