What you need to get a Maryland driver's license
Maryland issues driver's licenses through the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). To get your first license or renew an existing one, you'll need to visit an MVA office in person with specific documents. The state requires proof of identity, proof of Maryland residency, your Social Security number, and proof that you're legally allowed to work in the United States.
Acceptable identity documents include a valid passport, certified birth certificate, or a state ID card. For residency, Maryland accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, or bank statements dated within the last 60 days. You'll also need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test if you're getting your first license; renewals don't require these tests unless the MVA determines you need them.
The MVA has offices across Maryland, and you can find the one nearest you on the MVA website. Walk-in appointments are available, but you can also schedule an appointment online to reduce wait time. Bring all your documents with you—the MVA won't issue a license if anything is missing.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit an MVA office in person with proof of identity, Maryland residency, your Social Security number, and proof of work authorization.
- First-time applicants must pass a vision test and written knowledge test; renewals do not require these unless the MVA requests them.
- You can schedule an appointment online through the MVA website to avoid long wait times at your local office.
- Maryland driver's licenses are valid for eight years for adults and five years for drivers under 21.
- The cost varies depending on whether you're getting a new license, renewing, or replacing a lost or damaged card.
First-time driver's license: testing and requirements
If you're getting your first Maryland driver's license, you'll take a written knowledge test covering traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test has 25 questions, and you must answer at least 19 correctly to pass. You can study using the Maryland Driver's Manual, which is available free on the MVA website and covers everything the test will ask.
Before you take the written test, you'll also complete a vision screening at the MVA office. This checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you may be required to get a medical evaluation from an eye doctor before the MVA will issue your license.
After you pass both the written test and vision screening, you'll receive a temporary license that's valid for 30 days while the MVA processes your permanent card. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks.
Renewing your Maryland driver's license
Maryland driver's licenses expire every eight years for adults (age 21 and older) and every five years for drivers under 21. The MVA will mail you a renewal notice about 60 days before your license expires. You can renew online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office, depending on your situation.
Online renewal is available if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed. You'll pay the renewal fee online and receive a temporary license when ready. Your permanent card will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. This is the fastest option if you're may be able to access.
If you can't renew online—because your license is already expired, your address changed, or you have medical restrictions—you'll need to renew in person at an MVA office. Bring your current license, proof of your new address if it changed, and payment. You won't need to retake the written test or vision screening unless the MVA requests it.
Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license
If your license is lost, stolen, or too damaged to use, you can get a replacement at any MVA office. Bring your proof of identity and residency, just as you would for a renewal. You'll pay a replacement fee, which is lower than the cost of a new license but higher than a renewal.
If your license was stolen, you may want to report the theft to local police and keep a copy of the police report. This protects you if someone tries to use your license number fraudulently. The MVA doesn't require a police report to issue a replacement, but having one on file can help if questions arise later.
Replacement licenses are processed the same way as renewals: you'll receive a temporary license at the office and your permanent card by mail within two to three weeks.
Costs and payment methods
Maryland driver's license fees depend on what you're doing. A new license for an adult costs one amount; a renewal costs less. A replacement for a lost or damaged license falls between the two. The MVA website lists current fees, which can change, so check before you go to the office.
The MVA accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at all offices. If you're renewing online, you'll pay by credit or debit card. Some MVA offices also accept money orders. Bring the exact payment method you plan to use, or be prepared to use an ATM if the office doesn't have one nearby.
What to expect at your MVA appointment
When you arrive at the MVA office, you'll check in and wait to be called. Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they're organized and straightforward to find. The MVA staff will review your documents, take your photo, and process your process. The entire visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes if you have an appointment and all your documents are in order.
If you're getting your first license, you'll also take the written test and vision screening during this visit. Bring the Maryland Driver's Manual or study materials if you want to review before your test. The staff can answer basic questions about the test, but they won't teach you the material.
After everything is processed, you'll receive a temporary license that's valid for 30 days. Your permanent license will be mailed to the address you provided. If you move before your license arrives, contact the MVA to update your address so it's sent to the right place.
Updating your address and other information
If you move to a new address in Maryland, you should update your driver's license within 60 days. You can do this online through the MVA website if your license isn't expired and you have no medical restrictions. Online address changes are processed when ready, and you don't need to visit an office.
If you can't update online, visit an MVA office with proof of your new address. Bring your current license and a document showing your new address, such as a utility bill or lease. The fee for an address change is lower than a renewal. You'll receive a new license card by mail with your updated address.
If you change your name due to marriage, divorce, or legal name change, you'll need to visit an MVA office in person. Bring your current license, a certified copy of the document showing your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and proof of residency. The MVA will issue a new license with your updated name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Maryland license if it's already expired?
Yes, but you'll need to renew in person at an MVA office instead of online. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and payment. You won't need to retake the written test or vision screening unless the MVA requests it.
What happens if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment. There's no limit to how many times you can take it, but you'll pay a fee each time. Most people pass on the second or third attempt after studying the Maryland Driver's Manual more carefully.
How long does it take to get my permanent license after my appointment?
Your permanent license is mailed to you within two to three weeks of your appointment. You can use your temporary license during this time. If you don't receive it after four weeks, contact the MVA to check the status.
Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?
Both are possible. Walk-ins are accepted at all MVA offices, but you may wait longer. Scheduling an appointment online takes a few minutes and usually gets you in much faster. Check the MVA website to book an appointment at your nearest office.
What if I moved out of state but still have a Maryland license?
You should get a driver's license from your new state. Maryland won't renew a license for someone who no longer lives in the state. Contact your new state's DMV or equivalent agency to find out what documents you'll need for a new license there.