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

You can replace your Maryland driver's license in person at any Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office, or by mail if your license is not suspended and you meet a few conditions. The in-person route takes about 15 minutes and costs $30. The mail route takes two to three weeks and costs $25, but only works if your license expired less than two years ago, you have no suspensions, and you're not changing your name or address.

You'll need to bring proof of identity and proof of Maryland residency. A valid passport, military ID, or birth certificate works for identity. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address. If you're replacing a stolen license, you may also need to file a police report, though the MVA will tell you if that's required when you arrive.

Your replacement license will look the same as your original and carry the same expiration date. If your license has already expired, you'll need to renew it instead of straightforward replacing it — that's a different process with different fees and requirements.

Key Takeaways

  • You can replace your Maryland license in person at any MVA office for $30, or by mail for $25 if your license expired less than two years ago and has no active suspensions.
  • Bring a valid passport, military ID, or birth certificate, plus a recent utility bill or lease showing your current address.
  • In-person replacement takes about 15 minutes; mail replacement takes two to three weeks.
  • If your license has already expired, you need to renew it rather than replace it, which involves a different fee and process.
  • If your license was stolen, ask the MVA whether you need a police report before you visit or mail in your documents.

In-person replacement at an MVA office

Walk into any MVA office with your proof of identity and residency, and you can replace your license the same day. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number — the MVA will need it to look up your record. You'll fill out a one-page form (DL 43), have your photo taken, and pay $30 by cash, check, or card. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, and some have Saturday hours.

You don't need an appointment at most MVA offices, but wait times vary widely. Check the MVA website before you go to see current wait times at your nearest office. If the wait is long, you can come back another day or visit a different office. Your replacement license will be ready to take home when ready.

If you lost your license and want to report it stolen to protect yourself from identity theft, you can ask the MVA staff to file a report at the same time. This doesn't cost extra and takes just a few minutes.

Replacing your license by mail

Mail replacement is only an option if all of these are true: your license expired less than two years ago, you have no active suspensions or revocations, you're not changing your name or address, and you're not replacing a stolen license. If any of these don't explore to you, you must go in person.

To replace by mail, print or request the DL 43 form from the MVA website, fill it out, and mail it with a copy of your proof of identity and proof of residency to the address listed on the form. Include a check or money order for $25 — the MVA does not accept credit cards by mail. Your replacement license will arrive in two to three weeks.

Keep a copy of everything you mail in case the MVA needs to contact you about your process. If your documents get lost in the mail, you'll have proof of what you sent.

What counts as proof of identity

The MVA accepts a long list of documents to prove who you are. A valid U.S. passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate are the most common. You can also use a Social Security card, a previous Maryland driver's license or ID card, a school or work ID, or a document issued by a government agency that shows your name and date of birth.

Your document must not be expired, except for a passport (which can be expired). If you don't have any of these, call the MVA at 410-787-7758 to ask what else they'll accept — they may have other options depending on your situation.

What counts as proof of Maryland residency

You need a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and your current Maryland address. A utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or mortgage statement all work. You can also use a property tax bill, insurance bill, or a letter from a government agency addressed to you at your Maryland address.

If you just moved and don't have a document in your new name yet, bring a lease or rental agreement signed by you and your landlord. If you're living with someone else and don't have a document in your name, ask them for a utility bill or lease and bring a signed letter from them saying you live there. The MVA staff can tell you on the spot whether what you bring will work.

If your license was suspended or revoked

You cannot replace your license by mail if you have an active suspension or revocation. You must go in person to an MVA office. The MVA will check your record when you arrive, and if there's a suspension, they'll tell you what you need to do to clear it before they can issue a replacement.

Suspensions in Maryland usually result from unpaid traffic tickets, unpaid child support, or a conviction for driving under the influence. Revocations are more serious and typically last longer. If you're unsure whether your license is suspended, call the MVA at 410-787-7758 before you go in, so you know what to expect.

If your license has already expired

If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot straightforward replace it — you must renew it instead. Renewal involves a different form (DL 44), a new photo, and a higher fee. You may also need to pass a vision test or written test depending on how long it's been expired and your age.

Renewal can be done in person or by mail, but the requirements and costs are different from replacement. If you're not sure whether your license is expired, check the expiration date printed on the front of your card, or call the MVA to confirm your status.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement license in the mail?

Two to three weeks from the date the MVA receives your process. Mail delivery can add a few days on each end, so plan for up to a month total. If you need your license sooner, go in person to an MVA office and get it the same day.

Can I drive while I'm waiting for my replacement license?

If you're replacing a lost or damaged license, yes — you can show your Social Security card or other ID to police if you're stopped. If your license was stolen, ask the MVA for a temporary paper license when you report it, which you can carry while you wait for your replacement.

What if I moved to a different address since I got my current license?

You cannot replace your license by mail if you're changing your address. You must go in person to an MVA office. Bring proof of your new address, and the MVA will update your record and issue a replacement with the new address printed on it.

Do I need a police report to replace a stolen license?

Not always. The MVA will tell you whether you need one when you call or arrive at the office. If they do require it, you can file a report with your local police department and bring a copy to the MVA, or ask the MVA staff whether they can file the report for you.

Can I replace my license if I have a suspension for unpaid child support?

No. You must resolve the suspension first. Contact the Maryland Department of Human Services or the agency that issued the suspension to find out what you owe and how to pay it. Once the suspension is cleared, you can replace your license in person at an MVA office.