The basic path to renewing your Maryland license
You can renew your Maryland driver's license either online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office. The method you choose depends on how much time you have and whether your license has expired. Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access — you can complete it in minutes from home. Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks. In-person renewal at an MVA office is when ready but requires an appointment, which you book through the Maryland MVA website.
Your renewal notice will arrive in the mail about 60 days before your license expires. This notice contains a code you will need for online renewal. If you do not receive one, you can still renew, but you will need to go in person or call the MVA at 410-787-7758 to request a replacement notice.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the Maryland MVA website takes minutes and works if your license is not yet expired and you have not had a name change.
- Mail renewal requires sending your renewal notice, a check or money order, and a new photo to the MVA; it takes two to three weeks.
- In-person renewal at an MVA office is when ready but requires an appointment booked on the Maryland MVA website.
- Your license expires on your birthday, and you can renew up to one year before that date.
- A standard five-year renewal costs $97.50; a ten-year renewal costs $174.
Renewing online through the Maryland MVA website
Online renewal is the quickest option and works if your current license is not expired, you have not changed your name, and you have a valid email address. You will need your renewal notice (which includes a code), your current Maryland driver's license number, and a valid credit or debit card to pay the renewal fee.
Go to the Maryland MVA website, select "Renew Your License Online," and enter the code from your renewal notice. Answer the questions about any changes to your address, medical conditions, or organ donation status. Review your information, pay the fee, and you are done. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives.
Renewing by mail
Mail renewal works for anyone and does not require an appointment. You will need your renewal notice, a new photo, and payment. The photo must be a recent color photo, 2 inches by 2 inches, taken against a white or light background. You can use a passport photo or have one taken at many pharmacies or photo studios.
Send your renewal notice, new photo, a check or money order for the renewal fee (made payable to "Maryland MVA"), and a copy of your current license to the address listed on your renewal notice. Do not send cash. Processing takes two to three weeks. You can continue to drive on your current license during this time.
Renewing in person at an MVA office
In-person renewal is when ready — you will receive your new license the same day. You must book an appointment through the Maryland MVA website; walk-ins are not accepted. Bring your renewal notice, a new photo (same requirements as mail renewal), your current license, and payment in cash, check, or card.
The MVA office will take your new photo during your appointment, so you do not need to bring one if you prefer. However, bringing your own photo speeds up the process. Appointments fill quickly, especially near the end of the month, so book as soon as your renewal notice arrives.
What happens if your license has already expired
If your license expired more than one year ago, you cannot renew it — you must reapply as a new driver. This means taking the written test and road test again. If your license expired fewer than 12 months ago, you can still renew using any of the three methods above.
If your license expired recently but you need to drive before you can renew, you can request a temporary driving permit from the MVA. This permit is valid for 30 days and allows you to drive while your renewal is being processed. You can request one by phone at 410-787-7758 or in person at an MVA office.
Renewal fees and license validity periods
Maryland offers two renewal options: a five-year license for $97.50 or a ten-year license for $174. The ten-year option costs more upfront but spreads the cost over a longer period. Both are standard driver's licenses; the only difference is how long they remain valid.
Your new license will be valid for either five or ten years from your birthday in the year you renew. For example, if you renew in March and your birthday is in July, your new license will expire on your birthday five or ten years later. You can renew up to one year before your current license expires.
Name changes and other updates
If you have changed your name since your current license was issued, you cannot renew online — you must renew by mail or in person. Bring a document proving your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The MVA will issue a new license with your updated name.
If you have moved to a new address, you can update it during online renewal. If you are renewing by mail or in person, bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or unpaid fine?
No. The MVA will not renew your license if you have unpaid traffic violations or court fines. You must pay or resolve the violation first. Contact the court listed on your ticket to find out the status and how to pay.
What if I lost my renewal notice?
Call the Maryland MVA at 410-787-7758 and request a replacement notice. You can also renew in person at an MVA office without the notice — bring your current license, a new photo, and payment. Online renewal requires the notice code, so you cannot use that method without it.
How long does it take to get my new license if I renew by mail?
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the date the MVA receives your materials. You can continue to drive on your current license during this time. If you need your new license faster, renew in person at an MVA office for when ready issuance.
Do I need a new photo if I renew in person?
No. The MVA will take your photo during your appointment at no extra cost. However, if you bring your own photo, the appointment moves faster. Your photo must meet the same requirements: recent, color, 2 inches by 2 inches, white or light background.
What if my address changed but I do not have proof?
You will need proof of your new address dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail. If you do not have one yet, wait until you do before renewing in person or by mail. Online renewal allows you to update your address without proof.