Where to renew and what you need to bring
You can renew your Maryland driver's license in person at any Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office, or online through the MVA website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route is straightforward: bring your current license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. If your address has changed, bring a document showing your new address.
Online renewal is faster but only works if your license is not expired, you have not had any address changes, and your license does not expire within the next 60 days. You will need your current license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The MVA will mail your new license to the address on file.
Key Takeaways
- Maryland driver's licenses are valid for eight years, and you can renew in person at any MVA office or online if your circumstances have not changed.
- In-person renewal requires your current license, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and your Social Security number.
- Online renewal takes about one week and costs less than in-person renewal, but only works if your address has not changed and your license is not already expired.
- If you renew in person, you will receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card in the mail within two weeks.
How long the renewal process takes
Online renewal is the fastest option. You will receive your new license by mail within one week of completing the transaction. The fee is lower for online renewal than for in-person renewal.
In-person renewal at an MVA office takes longer overall, but you walk out with a temporary paper license that day. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within two weeks. Wait times at MVA offices vary by location and time of day; visiting early in the morning or on weekdays typically means shorter lines than afternoons or weekends.
What happens if your license has already expired
You cannot use online renewal if your license is expired. You must go to an MVA office in person. Bring the same documents: your expired license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The process is the same as renewing a current license, and you will still receive a temporary paper license when ready.
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Maryland, even if you have already started the renewal process. Do not drive until you have your temporary paper license in hand.
Renewing by mail if you cannot visit an office
The MVA does not offer mail-in renewal for standard driver's licenses. Your only options are in-person at an MVA office or online. If you are unable to visit an office in person, online renewal is your best choice, provided your license is not expired and your address has not changed.
If you cannot meet those conditions and cannot visit an office yourself, you may be able to authorize someone else to renew on your behalf. Contact your local MVA office directly to ask about power of attorney or third-party renewal options, as these rules can vary.
The cost of renewing your license
Online renewal costs $70. In-person renewal at an MVA office costs $109. Both fees cover an eight-year license. Payment methods vary by renewal type: online renewal accepts credit and debit cards, while in-person renewal accepts cash, check, and card.
If you renew in person and need a replacement license (for example, because your current one is damaged), the fee is the same. No additional charge applies for a temporary paper license.
What to do if your name or address has changed
If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you must renew in person at an MVA office. Bring your current license, a certified copy of the document showing the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), proof of residency, and your Social Security number.
If only your address has changed, you cannot use online renewal. You must go to an MVA office in person. Bring your current license, proof of residency at your new address, and your Social Security number. The MVA will update your address and issue your new license.
Preparing for your in-person visit
Before you go to an MVA office, check the MVA website for your nearest location and current wait times. Some offices are busier than others, and knowing the typical wait can help you plan. Bring all required documents in one place so you do not have to search for them at the counter.
Wear clothing that allows your face to be clearly visible for your photo. You will have your photo taken at the office, so plan accordingly. If you wear glasses, you can wear them for the photo, but the MVA may ask you to remove them depending on the frame style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online if I just moved?
No. Online renewal only works if your address has not changed. If you have moved, you must renew in person at an MVA office and bring proof of residency at your new address. This ensures your license reflects your current location.
What if I lost my current license?
You will need to report it lost and request a replacement before you can renew. Contact your local MVA office or file a report online through the MVA website. Once you have reported it, you can proceed with renewal in person at an office.
Do I need an appointment to renew at an MVA office?
Appointments are not required for license renewal at most MVA offices, but you can schedule one online to reduce wait time. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointment holders are typically seen first. Check your local office's policy on the MVA website.
How do I know if I am allowed to renew online?
You can renew online if your current license is not expired, your address has not changed, and your license does not expire within the next 60 days. The MVA website will tell you whether you are may be able to access before you start the process. If you are not may be able to access, you will need to renew in person.
What if my temporary paper license gets lost before my plastic license arrives?
Contact the MVA office where you renewed. They can issue you another temporary license. Bring your Social Security number and any identification you have. Once your plastic license arrives in the mail, the temporary license is no longer needed.