Renewing Your Maryland Driver's License Online, by Mail, or In Person
Maryland lets you renew your driver's license in three ways: online through the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) website, by mail, or in person at an MVA office. Which route you take depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have, and whether you need a new photo. Most people can renew online or by mail without visiting an office — but not everyone.
Your license is renewable up to one year before it expires. If your license has already expired, you cannot use the online or mail routes; you must go to an MVA office in person. The same applies if you need to change your address, update your name, or correct other information on your license.
Key Takeaways
- You can renew online or by mail only if your current license is still valid and you have not changed your address, name, or other personal information.
- Online renewal through the MVA website takes about 10 minutes and costs less than in-person renewal because you keep your current photo.
- Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires you to send your current license to the MVA; you will receive a temporary paper license while you wait.
- In-person renewal at an MVA office is required if your license has expired, if you need a new photo, or if you are changing your address or name.
- Maryland driver's licenses are valid for eight years, and you will receive a notice in the mail about 60 days before your expiration date.
Renewing Online Through the MVA Website
Online renewal is the fastest and cheapest option if your license is still valid and your personal information has not changed. Go to the Maryland MVA website, select "Renew Your License," and log in with your driver's license number and date of birth. You will answer questions to confirm your identity and review your current license information.
The fee for online renewal is $109 for an eight-year license. You will pay by credit card or debit card during the process. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. Your current license remains valid until it expires, so you can continue driving while you wait.
Online renewal is not available if you wear corrective lenses and your prescription has changed, if you need to update your address or name, or if your license has already expired. In those cases, you must renew in person or by mail.
Renewing by Mail
Mail renewal works if your license is still valid and your personal information has not changed. You will need to send your current license, a completed renewal form (DL 43), and a check or money order to the MVA. The form is available on the MVA website or at any MVA office.
The fee for mail renewal is $109 for an eight-year license. Mail your documents to the address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks. While you wait, the MVA will send you a temporary paper license that you can use to drive. Keep this temporary license with you until your new plastic license arrives.
Mail renewal is slower than online renewal, but it works if you prefer not to use the website or if you do not have a credit card. You must still meet the same requirements: your license must be valid, and you cannot have changed your address, name, or other personal details.
Renewing In Person at an MVA Office
Visit an MVA office if your license has expired, if you need a new photo, if you are changing your address or name, or if you wear corrective lenses and your prescription has changed. Bring your current license, proof of Maryland residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form). If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
The fee for in-person renewal is $109 for an eight-year license. You will pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card. The MVA will take a new photo and issue your license on the spot or within a few days, depending on the office. You can drive home with a temporary paper license if your plastic license is not ready when ready.
Wait times at MVA offices vary. You can check the current wait time for your local office on the MVA website before you go. Many offices allow you to make an appointment online, which can save you time. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are faster.
What Documents You Need for Each Renewal Method
| Renewal Method | Documents Needed | Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Driver's license number and date of birth | $109 | 7–10 business days |
| Current license, completed form DL 43, check or money order | $109 | 2–3 weeks | |
| In Person | Current license, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number | $109 | Same day or within a few days |
When You Cannot Renew Online or by Mail
You must renew in person if your license has expired. You also cannot use online or mail renewal if you are changing your address, name, or other personal information on your license. If you wear corrective lenses and your prescription has changed, you must renew in person so the MVA can note the change on your license.
If you lost your license or it was stolen, you cannot renew it — you must report it to the MVA and request a replacement. If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the MVA directly to find out your license status.
Finding an MVA Office and Making an Appointment
Maryland has MVA offices in most counties. Use the office locator on the MVA website to find the office nearest you, see current wait times, and check hours of operation. Many offices are open Monday through Friday, with some offering Saturday hours. A few offices are open on Sunday.
You can make an appointment online through the MVA website. Appointments are free and can save you 30 minutes or more, depending on how busy the office is. If you cannot make an appointment or prefer to walk in, arrive early in the day — wait times are usually shorter in the morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it expired more than a year ago?
No. If your license expired more than one year ago, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license. You will need to pass the written test and the road test, just as if you were a new driver. Contact the MVA to schedule your tests.
What if I move to a different address before my license expires?
You must update your address with the MVA within 60 days of moving. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office. Updating your address does not renew your license; your current license remains valid until its expiration date. When you renew, your new license will show your updated address.
Do I need a new photo when I renew my license?
Not if you renew online or by mail — your current photo stays on your license. If you renew in person, the MVA will take a new photo unless you request to keep your current one. You can ask to keep your photo if you renewed in person within the last eight years.
How long does it take to get my renewed license in the mail?
Online renewal takes 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewal takes 2 to 3 weeks. In-person renewal is usually the same day, though some offices may take a few days to mail your license if they are very busy. You will receive a temporary paper license to use while you wait.
What if I need my license before the normal processing time?
If you renew in person at an MVA office, you may be able to get your license the same day. Some offices issue licenses on the spot; others mail them within a few days. Call your local MVA office to ask about same-day service. Online and mail renewal do not offer expedited options.