When and how to get a replacement Maryland driver's license

You can replace your Maryland driver's license at any Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office. The process takes about 15 minutes if you're replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged card. You'll need to bring your Social Security number, proof of Maryland residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and payment — currently $70 for a standard replacement. If your license was stolen, you should also file a police report, though the MVA doesn't require it to issue a new one.

If your license has expired or you need to renew it at the same time, the process is slightly different and costs more. This guide focuses on straight replacements — getting a new card with the same information and expiration date as your current one.

Key Takeaways

  • You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Maryland driver's license at any MVA office for $70 and receive your new card the same day.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of Maryland residency dated within 60 days, and payment in cash, check, or card.
  • If your license was stolen, file a police report first so you have documentation, though it's not required by the MVA.
  • Your new license will have the same expiration date as your original, so you won't lose time on your current license term.
  • You can also request a replacement by mail if you cannot visit an MVA office in person.

What documents you need to bring

The MVA requires three things: your Social Security number, proof of Maryland residency, and payment. You don't need to bring your old license if it's lost or stolen — the MVA can look up your record by your name and date of birth.

For proof of residency, bring one document dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and current Maryland address. A cell phone bill does not count. If you've recently moved and your address hasn't updated yet, bring a lease or utility bill showing your new address.

Payment is $70 for a standard replacement. The MVA accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card at all offices.

Replacing your license in person at an MVA office

Walk into any Maryland MVA office during business hours with your documents and payment. You do not need an appointment for a replacement. Tell the clerk at the window that you need to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license. They will verify your identity, confirm your current address, and take a new photo (unless you request to use your old photo, which is allowed).

The entire process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. You'll receive your new license on the spot before you leave. Your new card will have the same license number and expiration date as your original, so you don't lose any time on your current license term.

MVA offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and some locations have Saturday hours. You can find your nearest office and check its hours on the Maryland MVA website.

Replacing your license by mail

If you cannot visit an MVA office, you can request a replacement by mail. read the process for Maryland Driver's License or Permit (Form DL-43) from the MVA website, fill it out, and mail it along with your proof of residency and a check or money order for $70 to the address listed on the form.

Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after the MVA receives your process. Your new license will arrive by mail at your address on file. This method works well if you live far from an MVA office or have a schedule that doesn't allow for an in-person visit, but it takes longer than walking in.

What to do if your license was stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost or damaged, file a police report with your local police department. This creates a record in case someone tries to use your license number for fraud. Bring the police report number to the MVA when you explore for your replacement, though the MVA does not require it to issue a new license.

You may also want to contact the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — to place a fraud alert on your credit file. A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. This step is optional but recommended if you're concerned about identity theft.

If your license is damaged but not lost

If your license is still readable and you have it in your possession, you can bring it to the MVA along with your other documents. The clerk will take it and issue you a replacement. You do not need to do anything special — the process is the same as replacing a lost license.

If your license is damaged so badly that the MVA cannot read your information, bring whatever remains of it. The MVA staff will help determine whether a replacement is needed and process it on the spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital copy of my proof of residency?

No. The MVA requires a physical document. Bring the original utility bill, lease, or bank statement. Some offices may accept a printed copy if it's clear and shows your full name and current address, but calling ahead to confirm is safer than assuming.

What if my address on file is outdated?

Bring proof of your current address dated within 60 days. The MVA will update your address in their system when you explore for your replacement. Your new license will show your current address.

Do I have to get a new photo taken?

No. You can request to use your old photo from your current license. Tell the clerk before they take a new photo. Your choice — some people prefer a fresh photo, others want to keep the old one.

How long does my replacement license take if I mail it in?

The MVA processes mail-in replacements in 7 to 10 business days after they receive your process. Mail delivery adds time on both ends, so plan for 2 to 3 weeks total from when you drop it in the mailbox to when you receive your new license.

What if I need my license before the replacement arrives?

If you applied in person, you have your new license when ready. If you applied by mail and need proof of your license before it arrives, you can visit an MVA office and request a temporary paper license, though this is not standard practice — call your local office first to ask if they offer this option.