How to Renew Your Maryland Driver's License

Where to renew and what documents you'll need

You can renew your Maryland driver's license in person at any Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office, or online through the MVA website if you meet certain conditions. In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes once you're called; online renewal takes a few minutes from home but has restrictions based on your age and how long it's been since your last renewal.

For in-person renewal, bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security number. If your name has changed since your last license, bring a document proving the change — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You do not need to bring your birth certificate unless you're renewing for the first time after turning 16.

Online renewal requires that you be between 27 and 70 years old, that your license is not expired by more than one year, and that you have not renewed online in the past five years. You'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method.

Key Takeaways

Maryland driver's licenses expire on your birthday, and you can renew up to one year before that date.
Online renewal is available only if you're between 27 and 70, your license expired less than one year ago, and you haven't renewed online in the past five years.
In-person renewal at an MVA office requires your current license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.
The renewal fee is $109 for an eight-year license, and you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at MVA offices.

Renewal important date and how far in advance you can renew

Your Maryland driver's license expires on your birthday. You can renew it starting one year before that date, which gives you a 12-month window. Renewing early does not change your expiration date — your new license will still expire on your birthday, just eight years from the date you renew.

If your license has already expired, you can still renew it. There is no grace period, but the process is the same whether your license expired last month or last year. However, if your license expired more than one year ago and you want to renew online, you'll have to go in person instead.

The MVA recommends renewing at least two weeks before your birthday to avoid the rush, though you can renew on your birthday itself if you visit an office early in the day.

Online renewal step-by-step

Start at the MVA website and select "Renew Your License" under the Driver's License section. You'll be asked to enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will confirm your identity and check whether you meet the age and renewal history requirements.

If you're approved, you'll review your current information and make any corrections — address changes are common. You cannot change your name online; if your name has changed, you'll need to renew in person. After confirming your information, you'll pay the $109 renewal fee by debit or credit card.

Once you complete online renewal, you'll receive a confirmation number. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives.

In-person renewal at an MVA office

Find your nearest MVA office on the MVA website and check its hours — not all offices are open on weekends, and some have limited hours. You do not need an appointment; offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis, though you can check wait times online before you go.

Bring your current license, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and your Social Security number. If your address has changed, bring a document showing your new address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement work. If you've changed your name, bring the document proving it.

At the office, you'll check in, have your photo taken, and sign your new license. The entire process usually takes 30 minutes or less. You'll pay $109 by cash, check, debit card, or credit card. You'll receive a temporary license to drive home, and your permanent license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

What happens if your license is suspended or revoked

If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it online or in person until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic tickets, unpaid child support, or a DUI conviction. You can check your license status on the MVA website by entering your driver's license number.

If your license is suspended, contact the agency that suspended it — usually the District Court, the Child Support Enforcement Administration, or the MVA itself — to find out what you need to do to lift the suspension. Once the suspension is resolved, you can renew your license through the normal process.

Renewing a license with a REAL ID or standard designation

Maryland driver's licenses come in two types: REAL ID-compliant and standard. REAL ID licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner and can be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building. Standard licenses cannot be used for these purposes.

When you renew, you'll be asked which type you want. If you want a REAL ID license, you'll need to bring additional documents: your birth certificate or passport, and two documents proving your residency (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement). If you want to keep a standard license, you only need your current license and proof of residency.

The fee is the same for both types: $109. If you're unsure which type you have, check the upper right corner of your current license. If there's a gold star, you have REAL ID. If there's no star, you have a standard license.

Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you'll need to replace it rather than renew it. Replacement is different from renewal: you can replace a license at any time, regardless of when it expires, and the replacement fee is $39 instead of $109.

To replace your license, go to an MVA office in person with proof of residency and your Social Security number. You cannot replace a license online. You'll have your photo taken, and you'll receive a temporary license to drive home. Your permanent replacement license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to the police and get a report number, though this is not required to replace it at the MVA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I've moved out of state?

No. You must have a Maryland address to renew a Maryland license. If you've moved permanently, you'll need to get a driver's license from your new state. If you're temporarily out of state but still a Maryland resident, you can renew online if you meet the other requirements, or you can renew in person when you return to Maryland.

What if my name doesn't match the name on my Social Security card?

Bring both your current license and the document that changed your name — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The MVA will update your name on your new license to match the legal document you provide. You may need to update your Social Security card separately with the Social Security Administration.

How long does it take to get my new license by mail?

Maryland typically delivers new licenses within 7 to 10 business days of your renewal or replacement. If you don't receive it within two weeks, contact the MVA. You can drive on your temporary license until your permanent license arrives.

Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket?

Yes, an outstanding traffic ticket does not prevent renewal. However, if you have an unpaid ticket that resulted in a suspension, you cannot renew until the suspension is lifted. Check your license status on the MVA website to see if there's a suspension on your record.

What if I want to change my address but not renew my license yet?

You can change your address at an MVA office without renewing your license. Bring your current license and proof of your new address. There is no fee for an address change. Your license will still expire on your original birthday, and you can renew it at that time.

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.