How to Renew Your Maryland Driver's License

Renewing Your Maryland Driver's License Online, by Mail, or In Person

Maryland lets you renew your driver's license online, by mail, or at a Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office, depending on your situation and how much time you have. Online renewal is the fastest option if you're may be able to access — you can complete it in minutes and your new license arrives by mail in about 7 to 10 business days. If you can't renew online, you can mail in your renewal form, though that takes longer. In-person renewal at an MVA office is required if your license has been expired for more than a year, if you need to update your address or name, or if you're renewing a commercial driver's license.

Your may be able to access for online renewal depends on your license type, how long it's been since you last renewed, and whether you've had any violations or suspensions. Standard Class D licenses (non-commercial) are the easiest to renew online. If you're unsure whether you can renew online, the MVA website has a tool that checks your may be able to access before you start.

Key Takeaways

Maryland offers online renewal for most standard driver's licenses, and the new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
You must renew in person at an MVA office if your license has been expired for more than one year, or if you need to change your address or legal name.
Commercial driver's licenses and licenses with certain violations or suspensions cannot be renewed online and require an in-person visit.
Maryland driver's licenses are valid for eight years, and you can renew up to one year before expiration to avoid a lapse in coverage.
You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method (credit or debit card) to renew online.

Online Renewal: The Fastest Route

To renew online, go to the Maryland MVA website and select the online renewal option. You'll need your current driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a credit or debit card to pay the renewal fee. The fee for a standard eight-year renewal is $109 as of 2024, though this amount can change. You'll also need to confirm your address and answer a few questions about your driving record and any changes to your personal information.

Online renewal is available only if your license is not expired, you have no active suspensions or revocations, and you're renewing a standard Class D license. If your license expired more than 30 days ago, you cannot renew online. After you submit your process online, you'll receive a confirmation number. Your new physical license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days, and you can continue to drive on your old license until the new one arrives.

Mail Renewal: When You Have Time

If you prefer not to renew online or don't have when ready access to a computer, you can renew by mail. Request the renewal form from the MVA website or call the MVA at 410-787-7758. Fill out the form, include your current license, a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail it to the address listed on the form. Processing by mail typically takes 4 to 6 weeks, so plan ahead if your license is expiring soon.

Mail renewal works for most standard licenses, but not for commercial licenses or licenses with certain violations on your record. If your license has been expired for more than one year, you cannot renew by mail and must visit an MVA office in person. Keep a copy of your mailed form and fee receipt in case there are questions about your renewal.

In-Person Renewal at an MVA Office

You must renew in person if your license has been expired for more than one year, if you need to update your address or legal name, if you're renewing a commercial driver's license, or if you have certain violations or suspensions on your record. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). If you've changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

You can find your nearest MVA office on the Maryland MVA website and book an appointment online. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are faster and reduce wait times. The in-person renewal process takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

What Happens If Your License Is Expired

If your license has been expired for 30 days or less, you can still renew online or by mail using the standard renewal process. If it's been expired for more than 30 days but less than one year, you must renew in person at an MVA office. You'll need to bring the same documents as for a standard in-person renewal, plus your expired license.

If your license has been expired for more than one year, Maryland treats this as a new license process rather than a renewal. You'll need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test, in addition to providing all the documents listed above. This process takes longer and costs more than a standard renewal, so it's worth renewing before your license expires or within the first year after expiration.

License Validity and Renewal Timing

Maryland driver's licenses are valid for eight years from the date of issue. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires, which means you can start the renewal process as soon as your license is seven years old. Renewing early is a good idea if you're planning a trip or want to avoid the rush as your expiration date approaches.

Your renewal date is printed on your license. If you're unsure when your license expires, you can check the MVA website by entering your license number. The MVA will send you a reminder notice about 60 days before your license expires, but don't rely on this notice alone — it's your responsibility to renew on time.

Renewal Fees and Payment

The renewal fee for a standard eight-year Maryland driver's license is $109 as of 2024. If you're renewing a commercial driver's license, the fee is higher. Payment methods vary by renewal type: online renewal accepts credit and debit cards, mail renewal accepts checks or money orders, and in-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, or credit card. Some MVA offices may have additional payment options, so check with your local office if you have questions.

If you're renewing after your license has been expired for more than one year, you may owe additional fees or penalties. The MVA website lists all current fees, and you can call 410-787-7758 if you have questions about what you owe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Maryland license if I have a suspension or revocation on my record?

No. You cannot renew online or by mail if you have an active suspension or revocation. You must resolve the suspension or revocation first by paying any outstanding fines, completing required courses, or meeting other conditions set by the MVA. Once the suspension is lifted, you can renew in person at an MVA office.

What if I've moved and my address on my license is outdated?

You must update your address in person at an MVA office. You cannot change your address online or by mail during renewal. Bring your current license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease. The MVA will issue a new license with your updated address.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew online?

Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you complete your online renewal. You can continue to drive on your old license until the new one arrives. If your old license expires before the new one arrives, contact the MVA to confirm you're covered.

Can I renew my commercial driver's license online?

No. Commercial driver's licenses must be renewed in person at an MVA office. You'll need to bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your address, and your medical certificate if required. The renewal process takes longer than a standard license renewal.

What if I lost my license and need to renew it?

If your license is lost or stolen, you cannot renew it online or by mail. You must visit an MVA office in person to report the loss and request a replacement. Bring proof of your identity and address. The replacement fee is separate from the renewal fee, and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot.

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.