Check your Maryland license status through the MVA website
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) lets you check whether your license is suspended, revoked, or valid using their online license status tool. You do not need to visit an office or call — you can look it up from your computer or phone in minutes.
Go to mva.maryland.gov and find the "Check License Status" tool. You will need your driver's license number and your date of birth. The system will tell you when ready whether your license is active, suspended, revoked, or cancelled, and in many cases why.
If the tool shows your license is suspended, it will usually display the reason — for example, unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, a DUI conviction, or points accumulation. The reason matters because it determines what you have to do to get your license back.
Key Takeaways
- The MVA's online tool at mva.maryland.gov shows your license status when ready using your license number and date of birth.
- A suspension means your license is temporarily invalid; a revocation means it has been cancelled and you must reapply to get a new one.
- The reason for suspension appears in the online result and determines what steps you must take to restore your driving privileges.
- If you cannot access the online tool, you can call the MVA at 410-787-7758 or visit a local MVA office in person.
What the online tool tells you
The MVA status checker returns one of four results: active (your license is valid), suspended (temporarily invalid), revoked (cancelled), or cancelled (no longer issued). Each status has different consequences for your ability to drive legally.
When a license is suspended, you cannot drive legally, but the suspension is temporary. Once you resolve the underlying issue — paying fines, completing a DUI program, or meeting child support obligations — you can restore your license. A revocation is permanent unless you go through a formal reinstatement process, which usually takes longer and costs more.
The tool also shows the suspension or revocation date and, in many cases, when it will be lifted or what action is required. Write down this information or take a screenshot, because you will need it if you contact the MVA or an insurance company.
Common reasons for Maryland license suspension
Maryland suspends licenses for several reasons, and knowing which one applies to you tells you what to do next. The most common are unpaid traffic fines or court costs, accumulation of too many points on your driving record, DUI or drug-related convictions, and failure to pay child support or court-ordered fines.
Other reasons include failure to maintain car insurance (reported by your insurer), failure to appear in court for a traffic ticket, medical conditions reported to the MVA, or administrative errors. Some suspensions are automatic — for instance, if you are convicted of a DUI, Maryland law requires a mandatory suspension period even before sentencing.
If the online tool does not clearly state the reason, or if you believe the suspension is an error, contact the MVA directly. The phone line is 410-787-7758, and staff can explain the specific reason and what you need to do to resolve it.
Steps to restore a suspended license in Maryland
The process depends on why your license was suspended. If it was suspended for unpaid fines, you must pay the full amount owed to the court or the MVA. If it was suspended for points, you may need to wait out the suspension period or take a defensive driving course to reduce points.
For DUI-related suspensions, Maryland requires completion of a substance abuse program and an alcohol education program before reinstatement. You must also pay reinstatement fees and provide proof of insurance. The MVA will not restore your license until all requirements are met.
Once you have resolved the issue, you can request reinstatement through the MVA website, by mail, or in person at an MVA office. Bring proof that you have completed all requirements — a receipt for paid fines, a certificate from a DUI program, or a letter from the child support office confirming current payments. Processing usually takes one to two weeks.
What to do if you need to drive before reinstatement
If your license is suspended and you need to drive for work or essential purposes, you may be able to request a work permit or conditional license from the MVA. may be able to access varies depending on the reason for suspension and your circumstances.
Work permits are most commonly granted for suspensions related to unpaid fines or points accumulation, but not for DUI convictions or revocations. To request one, contact the MVA by phone at 410-787-7758 or visit a local office. You will need to explain why you need to drive and provide documentation of your need — for example, a letter from your employer or proof of a medical appointment.
A work permit does not restore your full driving privileges. It allows you to drive only for specific purposes — usually to and from work, school, or medical treatment — and only during certain hours. Driving outside those limits can result in additional charges.
Insurance and a suspended license
If your license is suspended, your car insurance will likely be cancelled or non-renewed by your insurer. Insurance companies receive notice of suspensions from the MVA and are required by law to drop coverage for drivers with suspended licenses.
When your license is reinstated, you will need to contact your insurance company to restore coverage before you can legally drive. Some insurers will straightforward reactivate your policy; others may require you to reapply. If you cannot get coverage from your current insurer, you may need to look for a high-risk or SR22 insurer, depending on the reason for your suspension.
Do not drive without insurance while your license is suspended, even if you have a work permit. Driving uninsured is illegal in Maryland and can result in fines, license suspension extension, and criminal charges.
Alternative ways to check your license status
If you cannot access the online tool or prefer not to use it, you have two other options: calling the MVA or visiting an office in person.
The MVA phone line is 410-787-7758. Have your license number and date of birth ready. Wait times vary, especially during peak hours, but staff can tell you your status and explain what you need to do. This is the fastest option if the website is down or you need to ask follow-up questions.
You can also visit any MVA office in Maryland. Bring your license or state ID. Staff will check your status and provide a written summary if needed. Office hours and locations are listed on mva.maryland.gov. Walk-in service is available, but you may wait 30 minutes to an hour depending on how busy the office is.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a suspension usually last in Maryland?
It depends on the reason. Suspensions for points typically last 3 to 12 months. DUI suspensions last at least 6 months for a first offense, longer for repeat offenses. Suspensions for unpaid fines last until you pay. Contact the MVA to find out the exact end date for your suspension.
Can I drive with a suspended license if I have a work permit?
A work permit allows you to drive only for the specific purposes listed on the permit — usually work, school, or medical treatment — and only during approved hours. Driving for any other reason is illegal and can result in additional charges and license suspension extension.
What happens if I get pulled over with a suspended license?
You can be arrested, fined up to $500, and have your license suspended for an additional period. Your vehicle may be impounded. If you are caught driving with a suspended license a second time within five years, the penalties are more severe, including possible jail time.
Will my insurance rates go up after my license is reinstated?
Yes, in most cases. The reason for your suspension — especially if it was DUI-related — will remain on your driving record and affect your rates for three to five years. You may need to use a high-risk insurer or pay higher premiums with your current company.
Can I check someone else's license status online?
No. The MVA tool requires your own license number and date of birth for security reasons. You cannot check another person's status unless you have their permission and their information. If you need to verify someone else's status for employment or legal reasons, contact the MVA directly.