What the MVA renewal process looks like

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) lets you renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office. Which method you can use depends on your license type, how long it has been expired, and whether you need to update your address or other information. Most people renew before their license expires, which keeps the process simpler and faster.

The MVA sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before your license expires. That notice includes a renewal code you will need if you choose to renew online. If you do not receive a notice, you can still renew — you just need your driver's license number and other identifying information instead.

Renewal fees vary depending on your license type and how long you are renewing it for. A standard five-year renewal costs more than a one-year renewal. If your license has been expired for more than a certain period, you may not be able to renew by mail or online and will need to visit an MVA office in person.

Key Takeaways

  • You can renew online through the MVA website if your license is current or expired less than one year, and you have your renewal notice code or driver's license number.
  • Mail renewal is available for most driver's licenses, but takes longer — typically two to three weeks — and requires sending payment and documents to the MVA.
  • In-person renewal at an MVA office is required if your license has been expired for more than one year or if you need to update your photograph or address.
  • The MVA renewal notice arrives about 60 days before expiration and includes the code you need for online renewal, but you can renew without it if you have your license number and other identifying details.

Online renewal through the MVA website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access. You go to the Maryland MVA website, select the renewal option, and enter your driver's license number or the renewal code from your notice. You will need to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your MVA records, then review your information and pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card.

Online renewal works only if your license is not expired or has been expired for less than one year. You also cannot use online renewal if you need to change your address, update your photograph, or correct other personal information on your license. If any of those explore to you, you will need to renew by mail or in person.

Once you complete online renewal, the MVA mails your new license to the address on file. Delivery typically takes one to two weeks. You can continue to use your old license until the new one arrives.

Mail renewal and what documents to send

To renew by mail, you fill out the renewal form that came with your notice, include your payment, and mail both to the address shown on the form. If you did not receive a notice, you can read the renewal form from the MVA website or request one by phone.

Mail renewal takes longer than online renewal — usually two to three weeks from the time the MVA receives your envelope. You should mail your materials at least three weeks before your license expires to avoid a gap. Include a copy of your current license or other identification with your mailed renewal.

Mail renewal is not available if your license has been expired for more than one year. It is also not available if you need to update your photograph or address. In those cases, you must renew in person at an MVA office.

In-person renewal at an MVA office

You can renew in person at any MVA office in Maryland. Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and payment. If your address has changed, bring a document showing your new address. If you need a new photograph, the MVA will take one at the office.

In-person renewal is required if your license has been expired for more than one year. It is also the right choice if you need to update your photograph, change your address, or correct other information on your license. Processing usually takes less than an hour, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

You can check wait times at specific MVA offices on the MVA website before you go. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require you to schedule an appointment. Check your local office's policy before you visit.

What happens if your license is expired

If your license has been expired for less than one year, you can renew online or by mail using the same process as a current license. You cannot legally drive with an expired license, so renewing as soon as you notice the expiration is important.

If your license has been expired for more than one year, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must go to an MVA office in person. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and payment. The MVA may also require you to pass a vision test or written test depending on how long the license has been expired and your age.

Driving with an expired license can result in a traffic citation and fine, even if you have already started the renewal process. Renew before your license expires to avoid this risk.

Renewal fees and payment methods

Renewal fees depend on your license type and the term you choose. A standard five-year license renewal costs more than a one-year renewal. Commercial driver's license renewals cost more than standard renewals. The MVA website shows the exact fee for your license type before you complete your renewal.

You can pay by credit card, debit card, or electronic check when you renew online. When you renew by mail, you can pay by check or money order. When you renew in person, you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card — accepted payment methods vary by office, so call ahead if you want to confirm.

The MVA does not refund renewal fees if you change your mind after paying. Make sure your information is correct before you submit payment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or unpaid fine?

Maryland does not automatically block license renewal for unpaid traffic tickets or fines. However, if a court has suspended your license for non-payment or other reasons, you cannot renew until the suspension is lifted. Contact the court or the MVA to check whether your license has an active suspension.

What if I lost my renewal notice?

You can still renew online or by mail without the notice. For online renewal, use your driver's license number instead of the renewal code. For mail renewal, read the form from the MVA website or call the MVA to request one. You will need your license number and other identifying information either way.

How long does my new license take to arrive if I renew online?

The MVA typically mails your new license within one to two weeks of approval. Delivery by mail takes an additional few days to a week depending on your location. You can use your old license until the new one arrives.

Do I need to renew in person if I changed my address?

Yes. You cannot change your address through online or mail renewal. You must visit an MVA office in person and bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement. The MVA will update your address and issue a new license with the correct information.

What if my license was suspended or revoked?

You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license. You must contact the MVA or the court that issued the suspension or revocation to find out what steps are required to restore your driving privileges. Once your license is restored, you can then renew it through the normal process.