What You Need to Do to Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Maryland License
You can replace a Maryland driver's license in person at any Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office, by mail if your license is not expired, or online through the MVA website if you meet certain conditions. The fastest route is in-person replacement, which takes about 15 minutes and produces a temporary license on the spot. Mail and online options take longer — typically 7 to 10 business days for processing, plus delivery time.
The method you choose depends on whether your license is expired, whether you need to change any information on it, and how quickly you need the replacement. If your license expired more than a year ago, you cannot use the mail or online options and must go to an MVA office in person.
Key Takeaways
- In-person replacement at an MVA office is the fastest option and gives you a temporary license when ready; you receive your permanent card by mail within 10 business days.
- You can replace a non-expired license by mail or online without visiting an office, but processing takes 7 to 10 business days plus mailing time.
- If your license expired more than one year ago, you must renew it in person at an MVA office rather than straightforward replace it.
- You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of Maryland residency, and your Social Security number; the exact documents depend on which method you choose.
- The replacement fee is $70 for a standard license, and you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at an office; online and mail options accept card payments only.
In-Person Replacement at an MVA Office
Walk into any MVA office with your documents and you can walk out with a temporary license the same day. You will receive a printed temporary license valid for 45 days while your permanent card is produced and mailed to your address on file. The permanent card arrives within 10 business days.
Bring one document from the primary identity list (a valid passport, valid military ID, or valid federal employee ID), one document from the secondary identity list (a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or Social Security card), and one document proving your current Maryland address (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). You will also need to provide your Social Security number verbally or in writing.
No appointment is required at most MVA offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day. The MVA website shows current wait times for each office. Offices are typically less crowded early in the morning on weekdays. Bring the $70 replacement fee in cash, check, or card.
Replacement by Mail
You can mail in a replacement request if your license is not expired. Complete the process for Maryland Driver's License or Permit (Form DL 43), available on the MVA website or at any MVA office. Include a copy of one primary identity document and one secondary identity document (the same documents required for in-person replacement), a check or money order for $70 made payable to the Motor Vehicle Administration, and a signed statement explaining why you need a replacement.
Mail the packet to the address listed on the form. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days from the date the MVA receives your packet, and your permanent license arrives by mail after that. You will not receive a temporary license by mail, so plan ahead if you need to drive before your replacement arrives.
Do not send original documents by mail; send copies only. The MVA will not return your documents, so keep the originals for your records.
Online Replacement Through the MVA Website
The MVA offers online replacement for certain situations. You can order a replacement online if your license is not expired, you have not changed your name or address since your license was issued, and you do not need to correct any information on the license itself. Go to the MVA website, select "Order a Replacement License," and follow the prompts.
You will need to provide your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. Pay the $70 fee by debit or credit card. The MVA will mail your replacement license within 7 to 10 business days. As with mail replacement, you will not receive a temporary license, so you cannot drive legally until the card arrives.
If you need to change your address, correct your name, or fix any other information on your license, you cannot use the online option and must go to an MVA office in person.
What Happens If Your License Is Expired
If your license expired less than one year ago, you can still use the mail or online replacement methods. If your license expired more than one year ago, you cannot replace it — you must renew it instead. Renewal requires an in-person visit to an MVA office and includes a vision test and new photograph. The renewal process is different from replacement and involves different fees and documents.
Check the expiration date on your license before you choose your replacement method. If you are unsure whether your license is expired, call the MVA at 410-787-7758 (Baltimore area) or 1-888-769-0396 (toll-free) and provide your license number.
Documents Checklist for In-Person Replacement
| Document Type | Examples | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Identity (one required) | Valid U.S. passport, valid military ID, valid federal employee ID | Must be current and not expired |
| Secondary Identity (one required) | Birth certificate, naturalization certificate, Social Security card | Original or certified copy; Social Security card can be original |
| Proof of Maryland Residency (one required) | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement | Must show your name and current Maryland address; dated within 60 days |
| Social Security Number | Verbal or written | Required; you do not need to bring a card if you can provide the number |
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
The most common reason a replacement request is delayed or rejected is bringing documents that do not meet the requirements. A utility bill dated more than 60 days ago will not work as proof of residency, even if your address has not changed. A birth certificate that is not certified will not work as secondary identity. Check the dates and certification status of your documents before you go to an MVA office or mail your request.
If you are replacing a license because it was stolen, some people assume they need a police report. You do not — the MVA does not require one. straightforward tell the MVA staff that the license was stolen, and they will process the replacement. If you are concerned about identity theft, you can file a separate police report for your records, but it is not necessary for the replacement itself.
Another common error is mailing original documents instead of copies. The MVA will not return them, and you may need the originals for other purposes. Always send copies by mail and keep the originals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a temporary license last?
A temporary license issued in person at an MVA office is valid for 45 days. Your permanent license should arrive by mail within 10 business days, but if it does not, you can use the temporary license until it arrives. If your temporary license expires before your permanent card comes, return to an MVA office and request an extension.
Can I replace my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or unpaid fine?
Yes. The MVA does not check for outstanding tickets or fines when you replace a license. However, if you renew your license (not replace it), the MVA may suspend your renewal if you have unpaid traffic-related fines. Replacement and renewal are different processes, so this applies only to renewal.
What if I lost my license out of state?
You can still replace it by mail or online if it is not expired, or in person at any Maryland MVA office. You do not need to be in Maryland to request a replacement. If you choose mail replacement, send your documents to the address on Form DL 43. If you are in Maryland, visit any MVA office.
Do I need to bring my old license to replace it?
No. If your license is lost or stolen, you obviously cannot bring it. If you have it but it is damaged, you do not need to bring the damaged card — just tell the MVA staff why you need a replacement. The MVA will deactivate your old license in their system.
Can I change my address at the same time I replace my license?
Only if you replace it in person at an MVA office. If you use mail or online replacement, you cannot change your address — you can only replace the card as it currently exists. If you need to change your address, go to an MVA office in person and request both a replacement and an address change at the same time.