How to Get a Replacement Driver's License in Maryland

What you need to do to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Maryland driver's license

If your Maryland driver's license is lost, stolen, damaged, or worn out, you can get a replacement through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). You do not need to retake any tests — the MVA will issue a new card with the same license number and expiration date as your original. You can replace it in person at an MVA office, by mail, or online through the MVA's website, depending on your situation and how quickly you need the new card.

The process is straightforward, but the route you take depends on whether your license is still valid, whether you have a Real ID-compliant license, and how soon you need the replacement. A replacement by mail takes about two weeks. An in-person replacement at an MVA office usually takes a few days. Online replacement is the fastest option if you are may be able to access, but not everyone can use it.

Key Takeaways

You can replace a Maryland driver's license online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office, and you do not need to pass any tests.
Online replacement through the MVA website is available only if your license is not expired and you have not changed your address since it was issued.
Mail replacement requires a completed DL-43 form, a copy of your ID, and a check or money order, and takes about two weeks.
In-person replacement at an MVA office requires proof of identity and residency, and you can usually pick up your new license within a few business days.
A replacement license costs $70 for a standard license and $100 for a Real ID-compliant license, and the expiration date stays the same as your original.

Online replacement through the MVA website

The fastest way to get a replacement is online through the Maryland MVA's website. You will need your Social Security number, your current Maryland license number, and a valid payment method (credit or debit card). The process takes about 10 minutes, and your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

You can only use online replacement if your license is not expired and your address on file with the MVA has not changed since your license was issued. If your address has changed, you must use mail or in-person replacement instead. Online replacement also does not work if your license was suspended or revoked, or if you need to change any information on the card.

Mail replacement by sending documents to the MVA

If you cannot go to an MVA office or do not meet the requirements for online replacement, you can mail in your replacement request. You will need to complete the DL-43 form (process for Maryland Driver's License or Permit), include a photocopy of a valid ID such as a passport or military ID, and send a check or money order for $70 (standard license) or $100 (Real ID). Mail your packet to the address listed on the MVA website.

Processing time for mail replacement is typically two to three weeks from the date the MVA receives your packet. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want the MVA to return any documents you send. Keep a record of what you mailed and consider using certified mail so you have proof of delivery. The new license will have the same expiration date as your original license.

In-person replacement at an MVA office

You can walk into any MVA office and request a replacement license. Bring a valid form of ID (passport, military ID, or another government-issued ID), proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and payment of $70 for a standard license or $100 for a Real ID. You do not need an appointment, but wait times vary by location and time of day.

When you arrive, tell the staff member at the window that you need a replacement license. They will take your photo and print your new license on the spot or mail it to you within a few business days, depending on the office. Ask before you pay whether your new license will be printed when ready or mailed; this varies by MVA location. In-person replacement is the best option if you need your license quickly and can get to an office during business hours.

What to do if your license was stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost, you may want to report it to the police and get a case number, though this is not required to get a replacement. Some people do this to protect themselves in case someone tries to use their stolen license for fraud. You can file a police report online in many Maryland jurisdictions or in person at your local police station.

When you request your replacement through the MVA, you do not need to mention that it was stolen — the replacement process is the same. However, if you are concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them. A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.

Real ID versus standard license replacement

Maryland offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a Real ID-compliant license. A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and can be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building. A standard license cannot be used for these purposes. When you replace your license, you can choose which type you want.

A Real ID replacement costs $100, while a standard replacement costs $70. If your original license was a Real ID, you can replace it with another Real ID at the higher cost, or downgrade to a standard license at the lower cost. If you want to upgrade from a standard license to a Real ID during replacement, you will pay the Real ID price and may need to bring additional documents to prove your identity and citizenship. Ask the MVA staff or check the website to see what documents are required for a Real ID upgrade.

Replacement timeline and what to expect

The speed of your replacement depends on which method you choose. Online replacement is fastest: 7 to 10 business days. Mail replacement takes 2 to 3 weeks. In-person replacement can be same-day or a few business days, depending on the MVA office. If you need your license urgently — for example, to rent a car or open a bank account — in-person replacement is your best bet.

Your new license will have the same number and expiration date as your original. You do not need to renew your license or pay a renewal fee; you are only paying for the replacement card itself. If your original license expires soon, you may want to renew it at the same time you replace it, which costs an additional fee. Ask the MVA staff whether it makes sense to do both at once based on your expiration date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my replacement?

Maryland does not issue temporary paper licenses for replacements. However, if you are replacing your license in person at an MVA office, ask whether they can print your new license on the spot; many offices do this. If your replacement is being mailed, you will need to wait for it to arrive. If you need to drive before it arrives, you may be able to use a photocopy of your original license or a passport as ID, though policies vary by police officer and situation.

What if I ordered a replacement online but my address has changed since then?

If your address changed after you started the online replacement process, contact the MVA to update your address before your new license is mailed. You can call the MVA or visit an office in person. If your new license arrives at your old address, you can request that it be reissued to your new address, though this may involve another fee and delay.

Do I have to replace my license if it is damaged but still readable?

No, you do not have to replace a damaged license if it is still readable and the MVA will accept it. However, if the damage makes it hard to read your photo, name, or license number, or if a police officer refuses to accept it, you should get a replacement. The MVA can tell you whether your specific license is acceptable; call or visit an office to ask.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

If your replacement is being mailed, it will go to the address on file with the MVA, and anyone at that address can receive it. If you ordered it in person and it is being mailed from the office, ask the staff whether you can authorize someone else to pick it up, or whether it must be mailed. Policies vary by location.

What if my replacement license arrives with the wrong information on it?

Contact the MVA when ready if your new license has an error — wrong name, address, or license number. You can call the MVA or visit an office in person. They will issue a corrected replacement at no additional charge if the error was made by the MVA. If the error was caused by information you provided, you may be charged another replacement fee.

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.