How to Renew Your Maryland Driver's License

Maryland driver's licenses expire every five years, and you can renew online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office

Your Maryland driver's license expires on your birthday in the year shown on the front. The Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) sends renewal notices about 60 days before expiration, but you do not have to wait for the notice to start the process. You can renew up to one year before your license expires. The method you choose depends on your age, whether your address has changed, and whether you need a new photo.

If you are under 65 and your license is not expired, you can renew online through the MVA website without visiting an office or mailing anything. If you are 65 or older, or if your license has already expired, you must renew in person. Mail renewal is available for certain situations but takes longer than the other options.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal takes about 10 minutes, costs $109 for a five-year license, and you receive your new card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
You can renew online only if you are under 65, your current license is not expired, and you have a valid email address to receive your temporary digital license.
In-person renewal at an MVA office requires an appointment booked through the MVA website; walk-ins are not accepted at most locations.
If your address has changed, you must renew in person or update your address online first before using mail or online renewal.
Expired licenses cannot be renewed online; you must visit an MVA office in person, and you cannot drive legally while your license is expired.

Online renewal through the MVA website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you meet the requirements. Go to the MVA website, select "Renew Your License," and log in or create an account. You will need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your information against MVA records.

During online renewal, you keep your current photo. You cannot request a new photo online. The fee is $109 for a five-year license. After you pay by credit or debit card, the MVA sends you a temporary digital license by email that you can use when ready on your phone while you wait for the physical card. The physical card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Online renewal is not available if your license has expired, if you are 65 or older, if your name has changed, or if you need to correct information on your license. You also cannot renew online if your address has changed; you must update your address through the MVA website first, then wait for confirmation before you can proceed with online renewal.

In-person renewal at an MVA office

In-person renewal is required if your license has expired, if you are 65 or older, or if you want a new photo. You must book an appointment through the MVA website; the office does not accept walk-ins. Appointments are usually available within one to three weeks depending on your location. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days).

At your appointment, an MVA employee will take a new photo, verify your information, and process your renewal. The fee is $109 for a five-year license. You receive a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid for 45 days while you wait for your physical card by mail. The physical card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

If your name has changed since your last license was issued, bring a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree showing the change. If you have a medical condition that affects your driving, the MVA may require a report from your doctor before renewing.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal is available only in specific situations: if you are unable to visit an MVA office due to age, disability, or military service overseas, or if you hold a commercial driver's license. To request a mail renewal form, call the MVA at 410-787-7758 or visit an MVA office to pick one up in person. You cannot request a mail renewal form online.

Complete the form, include a check or money order for $109, and mail it to the address printed on the form. Mail renewal takes 4 to 6 weeks from the time the MVA receives your envelope. You do not receive a temporary license while you wait, so plan ahead if you need to drive before your new card arrives. Your current license remains valid during the mail renewal process as long as it has not expired.

What happens if your license expires

You cannot legally drive once your license expires. Driving with an expired license can result in a traffic citation and a fine. If you are pulled over, the officer may impound your vehicle. Renewing an expired license requires an in-person visit to an MVA office; you cannot use online or mail renewal.

If your license expired fewer than two years ago, you can renew it at an MVA office using the standard renewal process. If it expired more than two years ago, you must explore for a new license, which involves a written test, a vision test, and a driving test. This process takes longer and costs more than a standard renewal.

Address changes and other updates

If you have moved since your last license was issued, you must update your address before renewing online or by mail. You can update your address online through the MVA website without renewing your license. Log in to your account, select "Change Your Address," and enter your new address. The MVA will mail you a confirmation, and you should receive it within 7 to 10 business days.

Once your address change is confirmed, you can proceed with online renewal if you meet the other requirements. If you prefer to update your address and renew at the same time, you can do both during an in-person visit to an MVA office. Bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.

Fees and payment methods

A five-year license renewal costs $109 in Maryland. Online and in-person renewal accept credit cards and debit cards. Mail renewal requires a check or money order. The MVA does not accept cash by mail. If you are renewing in person, some MVA offices accept cash, but it is best to bring a card or check to be certain.

If you renew online or in person before your current license expires, you pay only the renewal fee. If your license has already expired and you are renewing more than two years late, you may be charged additional fees and may need to retake the written and driving tests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it expired more than a year ago?

If your license expired fewer than two years ago, you can renew it at an MVA office using the standard renewal process. If it expired more than two years ago, you must explore for a new license, which includes a written test, vision test, and driving test. You cannot drive legally while your license is expired.

How long does it take to get my new license card in the mail?

Physical license cards typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days after you renew online or in person. Mail renewal takes 4 to 6 weeks from the time the MVA receives your completed form. If you renew online or in person, you receive a temporary license when ready that is valid while you wait.

Do I need an appointment to renew my license in person?

Yes, you must book an appointment through the MVA website before visiting an office. Walk-ins are not accepted at most locations. Appointments are usually available within one to three weeks depending on your location and how far in advance you book.

What if my name has changed since I got my current license?

You must renew in person at an MVA office. Bring your current license and a document showing your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. An MVA employee will verify the change and process your renewal during your appointment.

Can I get a new photo during online renewal?

No, online renewal keeps your current photo. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at an MVA office. You can book an appointment through the MVA website and request a new photo during your visit.

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.