Maryland will issue you a duplicate learner's permit at the MVA for a fee if yours is lost, stolen, or damaged

You can get a replacement learner's permit in Maryland by visiting a Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office in person, bringing proof of identity and paying a replacement fee. The MVA charges a fee for the duplicate permit — the amount varies depending on how much time remains on your current permit. You do not need to retake the written test or vision screening unless your permit has expired.

The process is straightforward if you have the right documents. Most people complete it in one visit and leave with a new permit the same day, though wait times at MVA offices vary by location and time of day.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit an MVA office in person with a valid ID to request a duplicate learner's permit.
  • The replacement fee depends on how long your current permit is valid for, and you pay it at the time of your visit.
  • You do not retake the written knowledge test or vision test unless your permit has already expired.
  • Bring your Social Security number or proof of it, along with your ID, to speed up the process.
  • If your permit has expired, you will need to pass the written test again before receiving a new one.

What documents you need to bring

Bring one form of valid government-issued photo ID — a passport, Real ID driver's license, military ID, or state ID card all work. You also need to provide your Social Security number. If you do not have your Social Security card with you, bring a document that shows it, such as a tax return, W-2, or Social Security statement.

If your original permit was lost or stolen, you do not need to file a police report first, though you can if you want to. The MVA will issue the duplicate without one. If your permit was damaged, bring it with you so the MVA can see the damage.

How much the replacement costs

The fee for a duplicate learner's permit in Maryland is based on how much validity time remains on your current permit. The MVA charges less if your permit is expiring soon and more if it has several years left. As of 2024, fees range but you should expect to pay between $30 and $50 — contact your local MVA office or check the Maryland MVA website for the exact current fee, since it can change.

Payment methods accepted at MVA offices include cash, debit card, and credit card. Some offices may have different payment options, so calling ahead is a good idea if you want to confirm what they accept.

Where to go and how to find your nearest MVA office

Maryland has MVA offices throughout the state. You can find the location nearest you, hours, and current wait times on the official Maryland MVA website. Some offices are busier than others — offices in or near Baltimore and the DC suburbs tend to have longer waits, while rural offices often move faster.

You can also call the MVA at 1-410-768-7000 to ask about wait times before you go, or to confirm that your local office has the staff on hand to issue duplicates that day. Some smaller offices may ask you to come back at a specific time or may refer you to a larger location.

What happens if your permit has expired

If your learner's permit expired before you request the duplicate, you cannot straightforward get a replacement. Instead, you will need to explore for a new learner's permit, which means retaking the written knowledge test and the vision screening. You will also pay the full fee for a new permit rather than a replacement fee.

Check the expiration date on your permit before you go to the MVA. If it has expired, ask the MVA staff whether you should schedule a test appointment in advance or whether you can take the test the same day. Many offices allow same-day testing, but some require an appointment.

Getting your duplicate permit on the same day

Most MVA offices issue duplicate learner's permits the same day you explore, as long as you bring all required documents and your permit has not expired. The actual printing and issuance usually takes less than an hour once you have completed the paperwork and paid the fee.

Arrive early in the day if possible — MVA offices tend to be less crowded in the morning, and you are more likely to be seen quickly. Bring a book or something to do, because wait times can range from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on the office and the day of the week.

If your permit was stolen and you are worried about misuse

A stolen learner's permit is less of a security risk than a stolen driver's license, because a learner's permit alone does not allow you to drive unsupervised — you must have a licensed driver in the car with you. However, if you are concerned about identity theft or fraud, you can file a police report and provide a copy to the MVA when you request your duplicate.

You can also place a fraud alert on your credit report with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) if you believe your personal information is at risk. This is a free service and takes about 15 minutes to set up online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone else pick up my duplicate permit for me?

No. Maryland requires the permit holder to appear in person at the MVA office to request and receive a duplicate learner's permit. You cannot authorize someone else to do it on your behalf, even with a power of attorney.

How long does a duplicate permit stay valid?

Your duplicate permit has the same expiration date as your original permit. If your original permit was set to expire in two years, your duplicate will also expire in two years from the date it was issued.

What if I lost my permit and do not remember my Social Security number?

Bring a document that shows your Social Security number, such as a tax return, W-2, or Social Security statement. The MVA staff can look it up in their system if you provide other identifying information, but having the number or proof of it speeds up the process.

Do I need to bring my original learner's permit to get a duplicate?

No, you do not need to bring the original if it is lost or stolen. If it is damaged, bring it so the MVA can see the damage. If you cannot find it, just tell the MVA staff that it is lost.

Can I request a duplicate permit online or by mail?

No. Maryland requires you to appear in person at an MVA office to request a duplicate learner's permit. There is no online or mail-in option for this service.