How to Renew Your Maryland Driver's License

Maryland driver's license renewal: the basic path

In Maryland, you can renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office. Most people renew online through the MVA website if their license is not expiring for a criminal or medical reason. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes, costs $109 for an eight-year license, and your new card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you cannot renew online, you will need to visit an MVA office in person.

Your Maryland license is valid for eight years from the date it is issued. The MVA sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before your license expires, but you do not have to wait for that notice to start the process. You can renew up to one year before your current license expires.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Maryland MVA website is the fastest option and takes about 10 minutes if your license qualifies.
You will need your current Maryland driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method to renew online.
If you cannot renew online because of a medical suspension, criminal conviction, or other restriction, you must visit an MVA office in person.
Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you complete your renewal, and you can drive legally with your old license until the new one arrives.
If your address has changed, you can update it during online renewal, but a name change requires an in-person visit with supporting documents.

Renewing online through the MVA website

To renew online, go to the Maryland MVA website and select the renewal option. You will need your current driver's license number, your Social Security number, your date of birth, and a credit or debit card. The system will verify your identity and check whether your license is may be able to access for online renewal. The entire process takes about 10 minutes.

Online renewal is not available if your license was suspended or revoked, if you have an active medical suspension, if you have been convicted of certain traffic offenses, or if your license has been marked with restrictions that require an in-person review. If the system tells you that you cannot renew online, you will need to visit an MVA office instead.

After you complete online renewal, you will receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive with your current license until the new one arrives. If you need to update your address during renewal, you can do that online at the same time.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal is available only in limited situations. You can renew by mail if you are a Maryland resident living outside the United States, if you are active military stationed overseas, or if you have a medical condition that makes it difficult to visit an MVA office. To request a mail renewal form, contact the MVA directly or check the MVA website for the current mailing address and instructions.

Mail renewal takes longer than online renewal because your documents must travel to the MVA, be processed, and then be mailed back to you. Plan for at least three to four weeks from the time you mail your process. You will need to include your current license, a completed process form, and payment.

Renewing in person at an MVA office

If you cannot renew online or by mail, you will need to visit an MVA office. Bring your current driver's license, proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). If your name has changed since your last license was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

MVA offices are open Monday through Friday, and some locations have extended hours on certain days. You can make an appointment online through the MVA website, which is faster than walking in without one. Appointments typically fill up several weeks in advance, especially at busy locations. If you walk in without an appointment, expect to wait, and some offices may turn you away if they are at capacity.

The in-person renewal fee is the same as online renewal: $109 for an eight-year license. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot, and your new card will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary license is valid for driving until your new card arrives.

What happens if your license has expired

If your license has already expired, you cannot renew it online. You must visit an MVA office in person. Bring the same documents you would bring for a regular renewal. You may also be required to pass a vision test or written knowledge test depending on how long your license has been expired and your age. The MVA will tell you what is required when you arrive.

Driving with an expired license is illegal in Maryland, even if you have started the renewal process. If you are stopped by police, you can show your confirmation number from an online renewal or your appointment confirmation, but this does not may provide you will not be cited. If your license expired more than a year ago, you may need to retake the written test and road test, which means starting the licensing process over rather than straightforward renewing.

Updating your address or other information

If you have moved since your last license was issued, you can update your address during online renewal without visiting an MVA office. straightforward enter your new address when prompted during the renewal process. If you are renewing in person, tell the MVA employee about your address change, and it will be updated on your new license.

If your name has changed, you cannot update it during online renewal. You must visit an MVA office in person and bring a certified copy of the document that proves the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The same rule applies if you need to change your gender marker or correct other information on your license.

Fees and payment methods

A standard eight-year Maryland driver's license renewal costs $109. This fee is the same whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. If you are renewing in person, the MVA accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards only. Mail renewal requires a check or money order.

If you are 65 or older, your renewal fee is $39 for an eight-year license. Military members on active duty may be may be able to access for a reduced fee or extended renewal period. Check the MVA website or call your local MVA office to confirm whether you may have access to for a discount.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive while my renewal is being processed?

Yes. If you renewed online or in person, you can drive legally with your current license until your new one arrives by mail. If you received a temporary paper license at an MVA office, that is also valid for driving. Do not drive if your license has already expired and you have not yet started the renewal process.

What if I lost my license and need to renew at the same time?

You cannot renew online if your license is lost. You must visit an MVA office in person and bring proof of identity and proof of your Social Security number. The MVA will issue a replacement license and handle the renewal in one visit. The fee is the same as a regular renewal.

How do I know if my license is may be able to access for online renewal?

Start the online renewal process on the MVA website. The system will check your record and tell you when ready whether you can renew online. If you cannot, it will explain why and direct you to the next step. You do not have to complete the renewal to learn about you are may be able to access.

What if my renewal confirmation email does not arrive?

Check your spam or junk folder first. If you still cannot find it, log back into the MVA website with your license number and Social Security number to retrieve your confirmation number. You can also call the MVA customer service line to confirm that your renewal was received and processed.

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

An outstanding traffic ticket does not automatically prevent renewal. However, if you have an active suspension related to unpaid fines or a criminal conviction, you cannot renew online and must visit an MVA office. The office will tell you what needs to be resolved before your license can be renewed.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.