What to do if your Maryland driver's license is lost
If your Maryland driver's license is lost, you can replace it by visiting a Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office in person, by mail, or through an online request if you meet certain conditions. The fastest route is usually an in-person visit, which takes about 15 minutes and produces a temporary license on the spot. You'll need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and pay a replacement fee.
Maryland does not issue duplicate licenses by phone or email, and you cannot replace a lost license through a third-party service. The MVA handles all replacements directly.
Key Takeaways
- You can replace a lost Maryland license in person at any MVA office, by mail, or online if your license was not suspended or revoked.
- An in-person replacement gives you a temporary paper license when ready and a plastic card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- You must bring a valid photo ID, proof of Maryland residency, and payment; the replacement fee is $70 for a standard license.
- If you cannot visit an MVA office, you can mail a completed DL/ID-44 form with copies of your documents, though this takes longer.
- An online replacement through the MVA website is available only if your license was not suspended, revoked, or expired for more than one year.
Replacing your license in person at an MVA office
Visiting an MVA office is the quickest way to replace a lost license. You'll walk out with a temporary paper license valid for 45 days, and your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. The entire visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the office is.
You do not need an appointment at most MVA offices, but you can reserve a time slot online at mva.maryland.gov to avoid waiting. Walk-ins are accepted during all business hours. The MVA operates offices in every Maryland county; find the nearest one and its hours on the website.
Bring these documents: a valid photo ID (passport, military ID, or out-of-state license), proof of Maryland residency (utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days), your Social Security number, and payment. The replacement fee is $70 for a standard five-year license or $120 for a REAL ID-compliant license, which you'll need for federal travel after May 2025.
Replacing your license by mail
If you cannot visit an MVA office, you can mail in a replacement request. read and complete the DL/ID-44 form from the MVA website, then mail it with photocopies of your proof of identity and proof of residency to the address listed on the form. Include a check or money order for $70 (standard license) or $120 (REAL ID).
Processing by mail takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date the MVA receives your packet. You will not receive a temporary license this way, so if you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you'll need to visit an office in person instead. Mail your packet to the address on the DL/ID-44 form; do not send it to a local MVA office.
Replacing your license online
The MVA allows online replacement through its website if your license meets all of these conditions: it was not suspended or revoked, it was not expired for more than one year, and you have a valid email address on file. You'll need to log into your MVA account or create one, then follow the prompts to request a replacement and pay the fee by credit or debit card.
Online replacement takes 7 to 10 business days for delivery by mail. You will not receive a temporary license, so you cannot drive legally until your new license arrives. If your license was suspended, revoked, or expired for longer than one year, the online option is not available; you must visit an office or mail in your request.
What happens if your license was suspended or revoked
If your Maryland license was suspended or revoked, you cannot replace it through the online system or by mail. You must visit an MVA office in person. The office staff will check your driving record and explain why your license was suspended or revoked, and what steps you need to take to restore it.
Suspension and revocation are different. A suspension is temporary and automatically lifts after a set period or once you meet certain conditions (such as paying a fine or completing a course). A revocation is permanent unless you petition the MVA to reinstate your license. Bring all required documents and be prepared to discuss the reason for the suspension or revocation with the MVA staff member.
Documents you need to bring or mail
| Document Type | What Counts | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Photo ID | U.S. passport, military ID, out-of-state driver's license, or state ID card | Must be valid and show your current name and date of birth |
| Proof of Residency | Utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, mortgage statement, or government mail | Must be dated within the last 60 days and show your current Maryland address |
| Payment | $70 (standard license) or $120 (REAL ID) | Cash, check, debit card, or credit card accepted in person; check or money order by mail |
| Social Security Number | You will provide this verbally or on the form | Required for all replacements |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive while I wait for my replacement license to arrive?
Yes, but only if you received a temporary paper license in person at an MVA office. The temporary is valid for 45 days and counts as a legal license while you drive. If you replaced your license by mail or online, you cannot drive legally until your new plastic license arrives in the mail.
What if I lost my license out of state?
You can still replace it by mail or online from anywhere. If you need a temporary license to drive when ready, you'll have to visit an MVA office in Maryland in person. Some states offer reciprocal temporary licenses, but Maryland does not issue them for lost licenses reported from out of state.
How long does it take to get a replacement license?
In-person replacement: temporary license when ready, permanent license in 7 to 10 business days. By mail: 2 to 3 weeks. Online: 7 to 10 business days. Times may vary during busy periods or if there are errors in your process.
What if my name has changed since my license was issued?
Bring a document showing your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your other required documents. The MVA will update your record and issue a new license with your current name at no extra charge.
Can I renew my license at the same time I replace it?
No. Replacement and renewal are separate transactions. If your license is also expired, you'll need to renew it separately after you receive your replacement. Contact the MVA or visit the website for renewal procedures.