What You Need to Do Right Now

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Maryland driver's license, you must visit a Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office in person with proof of identity and residency. You cannot renew or replace a license by mail or online. The MVA will take a new photo, issue a temporary paper license on the spot, and mail your plastic card within 7 to 10 business days. The replacement fee is $70 for a standard license.

If your license was stolen, you should also report it to local police and get a case number — the MVA may ask for this. If it was damaged, bring the old card with you so the MVA can see the damage and process it as a replacement rather than a renewal.

Key Takeaways

  • You must go to an MVA office in person with a valid ID and proof you live in Maryland — no online or mail replacement is available.
  • Bring your old license if it is damaged, or a police report number if it was stolen.
  • The replacement fee is $70 and you will receive a temporary paper license when ready and a plastic card by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
  • Your new license will have the same expiration date as your old one unless you also renew, which costs an additional fee.
  • If you do not have an appointment, walk-in service is available but wait times vary by location and time of day.

Documents You Must Bring to the MVA

Bring one form of primary identification. This can be a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or a certified birth certificate. If you do not have any of these, you can use two forms of secondary ID instead — such as a Social Security card, W-2 form, or bank statement with your name and address.

You also need proof of Maryland residency. This must show your current address and be dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or a bank or credit card statement. A government check or tax return also works if it shows your address.

If your license was stolen, bring the police report number or a copy of the report itself. If your license is damaged, bring the old card so the MVA can see the damage. If you have changed your name since your last license was issued, bring a certified copy of the marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change.

Where to Go and How to Schedule

The MVA operates 24 full-service offices across Maryland. You can find the office nearest you and check current wait times on the MVA website at mva.maryland.gov. The site also shows which offices are open on Saturday mornings.

You can schedule an appointment online through the MVA website. Appointments are free and typically available within a few days. If you prefer to walk in without an appointment, you can, but wait times are longer — especially during lunch hours and late afternoon. Early morning visits usually have shorter waits.

Some MVA offices also have express windows for straightforward transactions like license replacement. Ask when you arrive whether your office has one, as you may be served faster.

What Happens at the MVA Office

When you arrive, check in at the information desk and tell the staff member you need a replacement license. They will direct you to the correct window. Bring all your documents with you.

The MVA staff will verify your identity and residency, check your driving record, and take a new photograph. You will be asked to sign your new license. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes if you have all required documents.

Before you leave, you will receive a temporary paper license that is valid for 45 days. This allows you to drive legally while you wait for your plastic card. Your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact the MVA to check the status.

Fees and Payment Methods

A replacement license costs $70. This fee covers the cost of issuing a new card with the same expiration date as your old license. You cannot pay online or by mail — payment must be made at the MVA office.

The MVA accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. If you pay by check, make it payable to the "Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration." Keep your receipt as proof of payment.

If you want to renew your license at the same time (extend the expiration date), that costs an additional $70 for a standard five-year license. You can do this during your replacement visit, but it is not required.

If Your License Was Stolen

Report the theft to your local police department and get a case number or a copy of the report. This protects you if someone tries to use your stolen license fraudulently. Bring the case number or report to the MVA when you explore for the replacement.

You should also contact the Maryland Department of Transportation if you are concerned about identity theft. If your Social Security number or other personal information was on the license, monitor your credit reports for suspicious activity. You can request a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus at annualcreditreport.com.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not assume you can renew your license at the same time as replacing it without paying the renewal fee. Replacement and renewal are separate transactions, each with its own cost. If you only want to replace the card, tell the MVA staff that clearly.

Do not bring a photocopy of your birth certificate or other primary ID — it must be the original or a certified copy. The MVA will not accept uncertified copies. If you are unsure whether a document is certified, ask the issuing agency before you go to the MVA.

Do not wait for your plastic card to arrive before updating your address with other agencies. Your temporary paper license shows your old address. If you have moved, you should update your address with your insurance company, employer, and bank right away using the temporary license as proof of identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license if it expired?

Yes. A replacement and a renewal are different transactions. You can replace an expired license, and it will be issued with the same expiration date as the old one. If you want to extend the expiration date, you must also renew, which costs an additional $70.

What if I do not have a birth certificate or passport?

You can use two forms of secondary ID instead — such as a Social Security card, W-2, bank statement, or utility bill. Each must show your name. Bring them together to the MVA office.

How long does the plastic card take to arrive?

The MVA mails replacement licenses within 7 to 10 business days. If you do not receive yours within two weeks, contact the MVA office where you applied and provide your case number. Your temporary paper license is valid for 45 days while you wait.

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

Both options are available. Appointments are free and can be scheduled online at mva.maryland.gov. Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times are longer, especially during peak hours. Early morning visits typically have shorter waits.

What if I moved and my address on the license is wrong?

Bring proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days) to the MVA. The staff will update your address during the replacement process, and your new card will show the correct address.