How to Renew Your Maryland Driver's License

Renewing Your Maryland License: The Basic Steps

You can renew your Maryland driver's license online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office. Most people renew online or by mail without visiting a location — you only need to go in person if your license has been expired for more than one year, if you need to update your photo, or if the MVA asks you to. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and your new license arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Your license is valid for five years from the date it was issued. Maryland sends you a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires, but you do not have to wait for it to renew. You can renew up to one year before your expiration date.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal is the fastest route and works if your license is not expired and you do not need a new photo.
You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid email address to renew online.
The renewal fee is $109 for a five-year license, and you pay by credit or debit card during the online process.
If your license expired more than one year ago, you must renew in person at an MVA office and may need to retake the written test.
Maryland does not require a road test for license renewal, only for initial licensure.

Renewing Online Through the MVA Website

Go to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration website and select the renewal option. You will enter your current license number, date of birth, and Social Security number. The system will pull up your record and show you the renewal fee of $109. You pay by credit or debit card, and the MVA mails your new license to the address on file.

Online renewal is only open to drivers whose licenses are currently valid or expired less than one year. If you have not had any address changes, name changes, or medical conditions that affect your driving, the process takes about 10 minutes. Your new license will arrive within 7 to 10 business days, and you can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives.

If you want to update your address or name during renewal, you can do that online. However, if you need a new photo — because you want a different one or because your current photo is too old — you must renew in person.

Renewing by Mail

Mail renewal is an option if your license is not expired and you do not need a new photo. The MVA renewal notice that arrives 60 days before expiration includes a mail-in form. Fill it out, include a check or money order for $109 made payable to the Maryland MVA, and mail it to the address shown on the form.

Processing by mail takes longer than online renewal — typically 2 to 3 weeks after the MVA receives your envelope. Mail your renewal at least three weeks before your expiration date to avoid driving on an expired license. Keep a copy of your renewal notice or receipt as proof that you have renewed while you wait for the new license to arrive.

Renewing in Person at an MVA Office

You must renew in person if your license has been expired for more than one year, if you need a new photo, or if you have a medical condition that requires MVA review. Bring your current license, proof of Maryland residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and payment of $109 by cash, check, debit card, or credit card.

Visit the MVA website to find the office nearest you and check its hours. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require you to schedule an appointment online or by phone. Call 410-787-7758 (Baltimore area) or 1-888-769-0396 (toll-free) to book an appointment or ask about wait times. Bring all required documents to avoid a second trip.

If your license expired more than one year ago, the MVA may require you to retake the written knowledge test before issuing a new license. You will take the test at the office during your visit. Study the Maryland Driver's Manual beforehand — it covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices.

What Happens If Your License Is Expired

Driving on an expired license is illegal in Maryland, even if you have already renewed and are waiting for the new one to arrive. If your license expired less than one year ago, you can renew online or by mail without visiting an office. If it expired more than one year ago, you must go to an MVA office in person and may need to retake the written test.

If you are more than one year expired and cannot visit an office right away, you can still drive legally if you have a temporary license or a renewal receipt from the MVA. The renewal notice or receipt shows that you have started the renewal process. Keep it with you while driving.

Updating Your Information During Renewal

You can change your address, name, or organ donor status during renewal. Online and mail renewal both allow address changes. If you are renewing in person, bring proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works.

If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the legal document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). You can update your name online if you have a digital copy of the document, or in person by showing the original or a certified copy.

To add or remove yourself as an organ donor, you can make that change during any renewal method. Online renewal includes a question about organ donation. If you renew by mail or in person, you can indicate your choice on the form or tell the MVA employee.

Fees and Payment Methods

The renewal fee for a five-year Maryland driver's license is $109. This is the standard fee for all drivers renewing a regular Class D license. If you hold a different license class (such as a commercial license), the fee may differ — check the MVA website or call for your specific class.

Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards. Mail renewal accepts checks or money orders made payable to the Maryland MVA. In-person renewal accepts cash, checks, debit cards, and credit cards. No matter which method you choose, you pay the same $109 fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Maryland license if I live out of state?

Yes. You can renew online or by mail from anywhere. You do not need to be in Maryland to renew. Online renewal is the fastest option — you can complete it in 10 minutes and your new license will be mailed to your current address.

What if I want to change my photo during renewal?

You must renew in person at an MVA office to get a new photo. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and $109. The MVA will take a new photo and issue your renewed license on the spot or mail it within 7 to 10 business days, depending on the office.

Do I need to take a road test to renew my license?

No. Maryland does not require a road test for renewal. You only take a road test when you first get your license or when you are upgrading to a commercial license. Renewal is a paperwork and fee process only.

What if my license expired more than a year ago?

You must renew in person at an MVA office. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and $109. The MVA may ask you to retake the written knowledge test. Study the Maryland Driver's Manual before your visit so you are ready to take the test at the office.

How long does it take to get my renewed license in the mail?

Online and mail renewals typically take 7 to 10 business days for delivery after the MVA processes your request. In-person renewal at an office may issue your license the same day or mail it within 7 to 10 business days — ask the MVA employee which applies to your situation.

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.