What You Need to Know About Maryland Replacement Permits

If your Maryland learner's permit is lost, stolen, damaged, or worn, the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) will issue a replacement. You do not need to retake the knowledge test or vision screening — the MVA will reissue the same permit with a new card number and expiration date. The replacement process takes place at an MVA office or through the mail, depending on which route you choose and the condition of your original permit.

The cost for a replacement permit in Maryland is $35. Processing time varies: in-person replacement typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, while mail-in replacement takes 7 to 10 business days after the MVA receives your process. You will need to bring or mail specific documents, and the new permit will have the same restrictions and endorsements as your original.

Key Takeaways

  • Maryland charges $35 for a replacement learner's permit, whether you obtain it in person or by mail.
  • You do not retake any tests; the MVA reissues your permit with a new card number and the same expiration date as your original.
  • In-person replacement at an MVA office takes 15 to 30 minutes; mail-in replacement takes 7 to 10 business days.
  • You must bring your Social Security number, proof of identity, and proof of Maryland residency to get a replacement in person.
  • If your permit was stolen, you should report it to local police and bring the police report number to the MVA office.

In-Person Replacement at an MVA Office

The fastest way to replace your learner's permit is to visit an MVA office in person. Bring your Social Security number (written down or memorized), a valid form of identification such as a passport or birth certificate, and proof of Maryland residency such as a utility bill or lease agreement dated within the last 60 days. If your permit was stolen, bring a police report or the report number.

You do not need an appointment at most MVA offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day. The MVA website lists all office locations and their hours. When you arrive, tell the staff member you need a replacement permit. They will verify your information, collect the $35 fee, and issue your new card on the spot. Your new permit will expire on the same date as your original permit.

Mail-In Replacement process

You can request a replacement permit by mail if you prefer not to visit an office. read the process for Replacement Driver's License or Permit (Form DL-43) from the MVA website, or call the MVA at 410-787-7758 to request the form by mail. Complete the form and include a copy of your proof of identity and proof of residency. Do not send your original permit unless it is damaged beyond recognition.

Mail your completed form and documents to the address listed on the form, along with a check or money order for $35 payable to the Motor Vehicle Administration. Include a note explaining that your permit is lost, stolen, or damaged. The MVA will process your request and mail your new permit to the address on file. Processing typically takes 7 to 10 business days from the date the MVA receives your process, plus mail delivery time.

What Happens If Your Permit Was Stolen

If your learner's permit was stolen, report the theft to your local police department and obtain a police report or report number. Bring this documentation to the MVA office when you explore for a replacement, or include it with your mail-in process. The police report protects you in case someone attempts to use your stolen permit.

You should also notify your insurance company if you have a policy, since your permit number is linked to your driving record. The MVA will flag your stolen permit in its system so it cannot be used, and your new permit will have a different card number.

Damaged or Worn Permits

If your permit is damaged, faded, or the barcode no longer scans, you can request a replacement at any MVA office. Bring your damaged permit with you so the staff can see the condition. If the permit is too damaged to read, the MVA may keep it and issue a replacement when ready. If the damage is minor, you may be able to keep the original as a reference.

Wear and tear from normal use — such as fading or minor creases — qualifies for a replacement. The new permit will have the same expiration date as your original, so you are not extending the validity period by replacing it.

Correcting Information on Your Replacement Permit

If you notice an error on your original permit — such as a misspelled name, wrong address, or incorrect date of birth — do not wait for the permit to be lost or damaged. You can request a corrected replacement at any time by visiting an MVA office or submitting a corrected Form DL-43 by mail. Bring documentation that supports the correction, such as a birth certificate for a name change or a lease for an address change.

Corrections are processed the same way as replacements and cost $35. If the error was the MVA's mistake, some offices may waive the fee, but you should ask before paying. Bring your original permit and the supporting document to the office, or include copies with your mail-in process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to retake the knowledge test to get a replacement permit?

No. The MVA reissues your existing permit without requiring you to retake any test. Your new permit will have the same restrictions, endorsements, and expiration date as your original.

Can I get a replacement permit if my address has changed?

Yes. Bring your new proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days) to the MVA office, or include it with your mail-in process. The MVA will update your address and issue a replacement permit with the new address printed on it.

What if I lost my permit and do not have a police report?

You can still get a replacement without a police report. The police report is helpful if your permit was stolen, but not required for a lost permit. straightforward tell the MVA staff that your permit is lost, and they will reissue it. If you later discover it was stolen, you can file a police report and notify the MVA.

How long does my replacement permit stay valid?

Your replacement permit expires on the same date as your original permit. If your original permit was set to expire in six months, your replacement will also expire in six months from the date of issue.

Can I get a replacement permit if I am out of state?

Yes, by mail. Complete Form DL-43, include copies of your proof of identity and Maryland residency, and mail everything to the MVA with your $35 payment. The MVA will mail your replacement permit to your address on file. If you are temporarily out of state, you can also ask a family member to visit an MVA office on your behalf if they have a signed power of attorney.