How to Renew Your Maryland Driver's License

Where to renew and what documents you need

You can renew your Maryland driver's license in person at any Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office, or online through the MVA website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route is always available. The online route works only if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, your address hasn't changed, and you're renewing for the standard five-year term (not a commercial license or a different class).

For an in-person renewal, bring your current driver's license, proof of Maryland residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. You'll also need to pass a vision test at the MVA office. If you're renewing online, you'll need your license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method — no documents to mail or bring.

Your new license will be mailed to your address on file. Standard processing takes about two weeks. If you need the license sooner, you can request expedited mail for an additional fee at the time of renewal.

Key Takeaways

Maryland driver's licenses are valid for five years, and you can renew online if your license is current and you have no medical restrictions.
In-person renewal at any MVA office requires your current license, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and a vision test.
Online renewal through the MVA website is faster if you're may be able to access, but you cannot change your address or license class that way.
Your new license arrives by mail in about two weeks, or sooner if you pay for expedited delivery.

Renewing online through the MVA website

To renew online, go to the Maryland MVA website and select the online renewal option. You'll need your current driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a credit or debit card. The system will ask you to confirm your personal information and address. If everything matches the MVA's records, you can complete the renewal in about 10 minutes.

Online renewal costs the same as in-person renewal. You'll receive a confirmation number when ready, and your new license will be mailed within two weeks. You cannot use online renewal if your license has already expired, if you need to change your address, if you have medical restrictions on your license, or if you're renewing a commercial license.

Renewing in person at an MVA office

Walk into any Maryland MVA office during business hours with your current license, proof of residency, and be prepared for a vision test. The MVA office will take a new photo and process your renewal on the spot. You'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent card is being mailed.

Wait times at MVA offices vary by location and time of day. Offices are typically less crowded on weekday mornings and more crowded on Saturdays and late afternoons. You can check current wait times on the MVA website before you go. Some offices allow you to reserve a time slot online, which can save you time.

In-person renewal is your only option if your address has changed, if you need to change your license class, if your current license is expired, or if you have medical restrictions that need to be reviewed by an MVA employee.

What happens if your license has expired

If your Maryland license is expired, you cannot renew online. You must go to an MVA office in person. Bring the same documents as a standard renewal: your expired license, proof of residency, and be ready for a vision test. The MVA will process your renewal the same way, and you'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days.

Driving with an expired license is illegal in Maryland, even if you have applied for renewal. Do not drive until your new license arrives or you have your temporary paper license in hand. If you're stopped by police, you can show your temporary license as proof that your renewal is in process.

Changing your address during renewal

If you've moved since your last license was issued, you must renew in person at an MVA office. Bring your current license, proof of your new Maryland residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. The MVA will update your address in their system and issue a new license with your new address printed on it.

If you've moved out of state, you cannot renew your Maryland license. You'll need to obtain a driver's license from your new state of residency.

Renewing a commercial driver's license

Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) cannot be renewed online. You must go to an MVA office in person. Bring your current CDL, proof of residency, your Social Security number, and be prepared for a vision test. You may also need to provide medical certification, depending on the type of commercial driving you do. Check the MVA website or call your local office to confirm what documents you need before you go.

The renewal process for a CDL takes longer than a standard license renewal because the MVA must verify your commercial driving record and any endorsements (such as hazmat or passenger). Plan for a longer wait time at the office.

Fees and payment methods

Maryland driver's license renewal costs the same whether you renew online or in person. The standard five-year renewal fee is set by the state and does not vary. If you choose expedited mail delivery, there is an additional fee. Payment methods accepted online include credit cards and debit cards. At MVA offices, you can pay with cash, check, credit card, or debit card.

If you're renewing a commercial license or renewing for a different license class, the fee may be higher. Ask the MVA office or check the website for the exact cost before you renew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Maryland license if I'm out of state?

Yes, if you're may be able to access for online renewal. You can complete the entire process on the MVA website from anywhere. If you need to renew in person, you must visit an MVA office in Maryland — there is no way to renew by mail or through an out-of-state office.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

You must renew in person at an MVA office. Bring your current license, proof of your name change (a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The MVA will issue a new license with your updated name.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?

Standard mail delivery takes about two weeks. If you pay for expedited mail at the time of renewal, your license will arrive faster. You'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days if you renewed in person, which you can use while waiting for your permanent card.

Can I renew my license early?

Yes. Maryland allows you to renew your license up to one year before it expires. Renewing early does not extend your expiration date — your new license will expire five years from the date you renew, not five years from your old expiration date. Check the MVA website to confirm the exact rules before you renew early.

What if I lost my current license and need to renew?

You cannot renew online if you don't have your current license number. Go to an MVA office in person and explain that your license is lost. Bring proof of residency and your Social Security number. The MVA will look up your license number in their system and process your renewal. You may be charged a replacement fee in addition to the renewal fee.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.