The fastest way to replace your Maryland license

You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Maryland driver's license in person at any Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office, or online through the MVA website if your license was lost or damaged (not stolen). The in-person route takes about 30 minutes and you leave with a temporary paper license the same day. The online route takes 5 to 7 business days for delivery.

You'll need to bring one document that proves your identity — a passport, military ID, or birth certificate — plus proof of your Social Security number, like a Social Security card or W-2. If you're replacing a stolen license, you must go in person and may need to file a police report first, depending on your MVA office's local policy.

The replacement fee is $70 for a standard license. If you want a REAL ID-compliant license (required for federal buildings and domestic flights after May 7, 2025), the fee is $85. Both are valid for eight years.

Key Takeaways

  • You can replace a lost or damaged license online through the MVA website, but a stolen license requires an in-person visit to an MVA office.
  • Bring one identity document (passport, military ID, or birth certificate) and proof of your Social Security number to any MVA office.
  • You receive a temporary paper license when ready when you visit in person; a replacement card arrives by mail in 5 to 7 business days.
  • The replacement fee is $70 for a standard license or $85 for a REAL ID-compliant license, both valid for eight years.
  • If your license was stolen, check your MVA office's policy on whether you need a police report before you visit.

Replacing online through the MVA website

The Maryland MVA allows you to order a replacement license online if your license was lost or damaged. You cannot use this method if your license was stolen — stolen licenses require an in-person report at an MVA office.

To order online, visit the MVA website and select "Replace a Lost or Damaged License." You'll enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You'll also choose whether you want a standard license or a REAL ID license. Pay the $70 or $85 fee with a credit or debit card, and your replacement card will be mailed to the address on file within 5 to 7 business days.

The online method is convenient if you're not in a hurry and your license wasn't stolen. However, you won't have a temporary license to use while you wait, so plan accordingly if you need to drive before your replacement arrives.

Replacing in person at an MVA office

Visit any Maryland MVA office to replace your license in person. This is the only option if your license was stolen, and it's also faster if you need to drive before your replacement arrives — you'll get a temporary paper license on the spot.

Bring one document that proves your identity: a U.S. passport, military ID, passport card, or certified birth certificate. You'll also need proof of your Social Security number, such as your Social Security card, W-2, 1099, or tax return. If you don't have these documents, the MVA office can tell you what alternatives they accept.

The visit takes about 30 minutes. You'll fill out an process form (DL-43), pay the $70 or $85 fee, and have your photo taken. You'll leave with a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed to you.

What to do if your license was stolen

If your license was stolen, you must report it in person at an MVA office. Some MVA offices require you to file a police report first; others will accept your statement alone. Call your local MVA office before you visit to ask whether a police report is required in your area.

If you need a police report, contact your local police department's non-emergency line and explain that your driver's license was stolen. They'll file a report and give you a report number. Bring that number and the report itself (if available) to the MVA office along with your identity and Social Security documents.

The replacement process is the same as any in-person replacement — you'll fill out the DL-43 form, pay the fee, and receive a temporary paper license. The permanent card arrives in 5 to 7 business days.

Documents you need to bring

You must bring one document that proves your identity and one that proves your Social Security number. The MVA accepts these identity documents:

  • U.S. passport or passport card
  • Military ID (active duty, retired, or veteran)
  • Certified birth certificate (not a hospital record)
  • Permanent resident card (green card)
  • Employment authorization document (EAD)

For Social Security proof, bring one of these:

  • Social Security card
  • W-2 form
  • 1099 form
  • Tax return
  • Social Security benefit statement

If you don't have these exact documents, the MVA office can tell you what else they'll accept. It's worth calling ahead if you're unsure.

Choosing between a standard and REAL ID license

When you replace your license, you can choose a standard Maryland driver's license or a REAL ID-compliant license. The main difference is what you can use it for.

A standard license costs $70 and works for driving and most everyday identification. A REAL ID license costs $85 and is required to enter federal buildings (like courthouses or federal offices) and to board domestic flights after May 7, 2025. Both are valid for eight years.

If you already have a passport or military ID, you can use those for federal buildings and flights, so a standard license may be enough. If you don't have other federal ID and you fly or visit federal buildings, a REAL ID license is worth the extra $15.

What happens after you order or visit

If you replaced your license in person, you'll leave with a temporary paper license valid for 45 days. Your permanent card is printed at the MVA's facility and mailed to the address on file. It typically arrives within 5 to 7 business days, though it can take longer during busy periods.

If you ordered online, you won't receive a temporary license. Your replacement card will be mailed to your address on file within 5 to 7 business days.

If your replacement doesn't arrive within two weeks, contact the MVA to check the status. You can call the MVA at 410-787-7758 (Baltimore area) or 1-888-769-0396 (toll-free) with your driver's license number and date of birth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my temporary paper license to drive?

Yes. The temporary paper license you receive in person is valid for 45 days and works for driving, employment, and most identification purposes. Keep it with you while you wait for your permanent card to arrive.

What if I don't have a birth certificate or passport?

Call your local MVA office before you visit. They accept other identity documents, including military ID, permanent resident cards, and employment authorization documents. The office can tell you which documents they'll accept in your situation.

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

It depends on your local MVA office. Some require a police report; others don't. Call your MVA office's non-emergency line before you visit to ask. If one is required, contact your local police department's non-emergency line to file a report.

How long does it take to get my replacement license?

If you visit in person, you get a temporary paper license when ready. Your permanent card arrives by mail in 5 to 7 business days. If you order online, the card arrives in 5 to 7 business days with no temporary license.

Can I replace my license if I'm not a Maryland resident?

No. You must be a Maryland resident to hold a Maryland driver's license. If you've moved out of state, you'll need to get a license from your new state instead.