Where to renew your Maryland license
You can renew your Maryland driver's license through the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) in three ways: online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office. Online renewal is the fastest option if you're may be able to access, taking just a few minutes from home. Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks once the MVA receives your completed form. In-person renewal at an MVA office typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the location is.
Not every license can be renewed through every method. Your may be able to access depends on your license type, how long it's been since you last renewed, and whether your address or name has changed. The MVA website has a tool that tells you which renewal method works for your situation before you start the process.
Key Takeaways
- Maryland offers online, mail, and in-person renewal, but not all licenses are may be able to access for every method.
- Online renewal is fastest and costs $109 for an eight-year license, while mail renewal costs $97 and takes two to three weeks.
- You'll need your current license, proof of residency, and a completed process form (DL-43) for mail or in-person renewal.
- Your license expires on your birthday, and you can renew it up to one year before that date.
- If you've changed your name or address, you may need to renew in person rather than online or by mail.
Online renewal through the MVA website
To renew online, go to the Maryland MVA website and select the online renewal option. You'll need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method (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 five minutes.
Online renewal costs $109 for an eight-year license. Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within seven to ten business days. You can continue using your current license until the new one arrives. Online renewal is not available if you've changed your name, address, or if your license has been suspended or revoked.
Mail renewal with form DL-43
To renew by mail, read or request the DL-43 form from the MVA website or call 410-787-7758. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and include a copy of your current license (front and back) and proof of your current address. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
Mail your completed packet to the address listed on the form. The MVA will process it and mail your new license within two to three weeks of receiving it. Mail renewal costs $97 for an eight-year license. Like online renewal, mail renewal is not available if you've changed your name or address, or if your license status has changed.
In-person renewal at an MVA office
Visit any MVA office with your current license, proof of residency, and the completed DL-43 form. You can also bring the form blank and fill it out at the office. Bring a document showing your current address if it differs from what's on your license. In-person renewal is required if you've changed your name or address, or if your license has been suspended.
In-person renewal costs $109 for an eight-year license. You'll receive a temporary license on the spot that's valid for 30 days, and your permanent license will arrive by mail within seven to ten business days. The MVA has offices in Baltimore, Annapolis, Bowie, Catonsville, Chesapeake, Cumberland, Denton, Dundalk, Easton, Edgewood, Ellicott City, Frederick, Gaithersburg, Glen Burnie, Hagerstown, Laurel, Leonardtown, Ocean City, Salisbury, Silver Spring, Towson, and Westminster.
What documents you need for each method
| Renewal Method | Documents Needed | Cost | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Current license number, Social Security number | $109 | 7–10 business days |
| DL-43 form, current license copy, proof of residency | $97 | 2–3 weeks | |
| In-person | Current license, proof of residency, DL-43 form (optional) | $109 | 30 days (temporary); 7–10 business days (permanent) |
When your license expires and renewal important date
Your Maryland driver's license expires on your birthday. You can renew it up to one year before your birthday, so you don't have to wait until the last minute. If your license has already expired, you cannot renew it by mail or online—you must renew in person at an MVA office.
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Maryland. If you're pulled over, you can face a citation and fine. If your license expired more than a year ago, the MVA may require you to take a written test and vision test in addition to paying the renewal fee. Check your license now to see when your birthday renewal date is.
Changing your name or address during renewal
If you've changed your name since your last renewal, you must renew in person at an MVA office. Bring your current license, a document showing your legal name change (such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and proof of your current address. The MVA will issue a new license with your updated name.
If you've moved to a new address in Maryland, you can update it during renewal through any method. For online renewal, your new address must match what the MVA has on file from other state records. If it doesn't, renew by mail or in person and include proof of your new address. Out-of-state moves require in-person renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it's been suspended or revoked?
No. You must resolve the suspension or revocation with the MVA before you can renew. Contact the MVA at 410-787-7758 to find out why your license was suspended and what steps you need to take. Once it's cleared, you can renew through any available method.
What if I don't receive my license in the mail after renewal?
Wait at least 14 business days after you submitted your renewal before contacting the MVA. If it still hasn't arrived, call 410-787-7758 with your license number and the date you renewed. The MVA can check the status and reissue your license if needed.
Do I need a new photo for license renewal?
No. Online and mail renewals use your existing photo. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at an MVA office. The office will take a new photo as part of the in-person process.
Can I renew my license if I'm out of state?
Yes, you can renew by mail or online if you're temporarily out of state. Mail your completed DL-43 form and documents to the MVA address, or use online renewal if you're may be able to access. If you've moved out of state permanently, you'll need to renew in person when you return to Maryland or contact the MVA about your options.
How much does it cost to renew for a shorter period?
Maryland offers eight-year licenses for $109 (in-person or online) or $97 (by mail). You cannot renew for a shorter period unless you have a medical condition or other special circumstance. Contact the MVA at 410-787-7758 to discuss other options.