Maryland renews driver's licenses by mail, online, or in person depending on your situation
You can renew your Maryland driver's license without visiting an office if you meet certain conditions. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) allows online renewal for most people, mail renewal for some, and in-person renewal at an MVA office if you need it. Which route you take depends on how much time you have, whether your license is expired, and what type of license you hold.
Your license is valid for eight years from the date it was issued. You can renew it up to one year before it expires, which means you have a window of nine years total to complete the process. If your license has already expired, you cannot renew online or by mail—you must go to an MVA office in person.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the MVA website takes about 10 minutes and costs $109 for an eight-year license if you do not need a new photo.
- You can renew online only if your license is not expired, you have a valid Social Security number on file, and you have not had certain violations or medical suspensions.
- Mail renewal is available for people over 65 and takes two to three weeks; the form is available on the MVA website.
- In-person renewal at an MVA office is required if your license is expired, you need a new photo, or you do not meet online renewal requirements.
- You will need your current license, proof of Maryland residency, and payment when you renew in person.
Online renewal through the MVA website
Online renewal is the fastest option if your license is current. Go to the Maryland MVA website, select "Renew Your License," and log in with your driver's license number and date of birth. You will answer questions about your address, any name changes, and whether your vision and medical status have changed since your last renewal. The system will ask whether you want to keep your current photo or get a new one.
If you keep your current photo, you pay $109 for an eight-year renewal and receive your new license by mail in about 10 business days. If you want a new photo, you must schedule an in-person appointment at an MVA office and pay $109 plus a $10 photo fee. You cannot upload a photo online—you must be photographed at the office.
Online renewal is not available if your license is expired, if you have had a medical suspension or certain traffic violations, or if your Social Security number is not on file with the MVA. You also cannot renew online if you need to change your name, address, or organ donor status beyond what the online form allows. In those cases, you must visit an MVA office.
Mail renewal for people over 65
Maryland offers mail renewal only to people age 65 and older. Request the renewal form from the MVA website or call 410-787-7758. Fill out the form, include a check or money order for $109, and mail it to the address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks, and your new license will arrive by mail.
Mail renewal has the same restrictions as online renewal: your license cannot be expired, and you cannot have had a medical suspension or certain violations. If you need a new photo or have other changes that require an office visit, you must go in person instead.
In-person renewal at an MVA office
Visit an MVA office if your license is expired, you need a new photo, or you do not meet the requirements for online or mail renewal. Bring your current license, proof of Maryland residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and payment. The renewal fee is $109 for an eight-year license; if you need a new photo, add $10.
You can schedule an appointment online through the MVA website or call 410-787-7758. Walk-ins are accepted at some offices, but appointment holders are served first. Processing at the office usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot and your permanent license by mail within 10 business days.
If you are renewing in person because your license is expired, bring the expired license with you. The MVA will not penalize you for the expiration itself, but you cannot legally drive until your new license arrives. Some people choose to renew before expiration to avoid this gap.
What happens if your license is expired
You cannot drive legally with an expired license, and you cannot renew it online or by mail. You must visit an MVA office in person. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and payment. The renewal process is the same as for a current license—you pay $109 for eight years, get photographed, and receive a temporary license on the spot.
If you were stopped by police while driving with an expired license, you could receive a citation. Renewing as soon as possible protects you from that risk. The MVA does not charge a penalty for late renewal, but the longer you wait, the longer you cannot legally drive.
Documents and payment you will need
For online renewal, you need your current license number and date of birth. For mail or in-person renewal, bring your actual license plus proof that you live in Maryland. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government document with your current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.
Payment is $109 for an eight-year license. At an MVA office, you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card. Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards. Mail renewal requires a check or money order. If you need a new photo at an office visit, add $10 to the fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I have a suspended or revoked license?
No. You must resolve the suspension or revocation with the MVA before you can renew. Call 410-787-7758 to find out why your license is suspended and what steps you need to take. Once the suspension is lifted, you can renew through any available method.
What if my name has changed since my last license?
You cannot change your name online. You must visit an MVA office and bring your current license, proof of the name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order), and proof of residency. The office will update your name and issue a new license.
How long does it take to get my renewed license in the mail?
After online or mail renewal, expect 10 business days. If you renew in person at an office, you get a temporary paper license when ready and the permanent license arrives by mail within 10 business days. Business days do not include weekends or state holidays.
Can I renew my license if I do not have a Social Security number?
You cannot renew online without a Social Security number on file. You can renew by mail (if over 65) or in person at an MVA office. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and payment. The office staff will help you complete the renewal.
What if I want to change my address during renewal?
You can update your address online during online renewal. For mail renewal, fill in your new address on the form. For in-person renewal, tell the office staff your new address and bring proof of residency at that address. The new address will appear on your renewed license.