Maryland driver's license renewal basics
Maryland lets you renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office. Which method you can use depends on your age, how long your license has been expired, and whether you need a new photo. Most people under 65 with a valid or recently expired license can renew online or by mail without visiting an office.
Your current license must not be expired by more than one year to use online or mail renewal. If your license expired more than a year ago, you must renew in person. The same applies if you need a new photo — Maryland requires a new photo every 16 years, or when you turn 65, whichever comes first.
Renewal fees vary by license type and how long you renew for. A standard five-year renewal costs less than a ten-year renewal. You can pay by credit card, debit card, or electronic check, depending on which renewal method you choose.
Key Takeaways
- Online and mail renewal are available only if your license expired within the last year and you do not need a new photo.
- Maryland requires a new photo every 16 years or when you turn 65, whichever comes first, and you must renew in person if a new photo is due.
- Online renewal takes a few minutes and you receive a temporary digital license when ready; your physical card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
- Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires you to mail in your current license along with the renewal form and payment.
- In-person renewal at an MVA office is necessary if your license has been expired for more than one year or if you need a new photo.
Online renewal through the Maryland MVA website
Online renewal is the fastest option if you are not due for a new photo. You go to the Maryland MVA website, create or log into your account, and answer questions about your current license and any changes to your address or name. The whole process takes about five minutes.
After you submit your information and payment, you receive a temporary digital license on your phone or computer that you can use right away. Your physical card is mailed to your address on file and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to mail anything in or visit an office.
Online renewal is available only if your license is not expired or expired less than one year ago, you do not need a new photo, and you have not had any serious violations or suspensions. If any of these do not explore to you, you will need to use mail or in-person renewal instead.
Mail renewal and what to send
Mail renewal works if your license expired within the last year and you do not need a new photo. You read and print the renewal form from the Maryland MVA website, fill it out by hand, and mail it along with your current license and payment to the address listed on the form.
Mail the form, your license, and a check or money order to the MVA. Do not send cash. Include your phone number or email so the MVA can contact you if there are questions. Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the time the MVA receives your envelope.
Keep a copy of the form and your payment receipt for your records. If you are concerned about mailing your license, you can take a photo of both sides before you send it, though the MVA will not accept a photo as proof of your old license.
In-person renewal at an MVA office
You must renew in person if your license has been expired for more than one year, if you need a new photo, or if you have had a suspension or serious violation. You also renew in person if you are changing your name or address and want to update your license at the same time.
Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
You can make an appointment online through the Maryland MVA website or call the MVA to book a time. Walk-ins are accepted at most offices, but wait times vary. Appointments usually move faster. The renewal itself takes 15 to 30 minutes once you are called.
Fees and payment methods by renewal type
| Renewal Method | License Duration | Fee | Payment Methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | 5 years | $70 | Credit card, debit card, electronic check |
| Online | 10 years | $140 | Credit card, debit card, electronic check |
| 5 years | $70 | Check or money order only | |
| 10 years | $140 | Check or money order only | |
| In-person | 5 years | $70 | Cash, check, debit card, credit card |
| In-person | 10 years | $140 | Cash, check, debit card, credit card |
Fees shown are current as of this writing but may change. Check the Maryland MVA website before you renew to confirm the exact fee for your license type and duration.
What happens if your license is already expired
If your license expired less than one year ago, you can still use online or mail renewal as long as you do not need a new photo. The process is the same, and you do not face any penalty for renewing a few weeks or months late.
If your license expired more than one year ago, you cannot use online or mail renewal. You must go to an MVA office in person. Bring the same documents you would bring for any in-person renewal. Driving with an expired license is illegal in Maryland, so renew as soon as you can.
If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it through any method. You must contact the MVA directly to find out what steps are needed to restore your driving record before you can renew.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Maryland license before it expires?
Yes. You can renew up to one year before your license expires. This is useful if you are planning a trip or want to avoid the rush near your expiration date. The renewal process is the same whether your license is current or expired.
What if I moved to a different address since my last renewal?
Online and mail renewal will update your address if you provide the new one during the process. If you renew in person, bring proof of your new address such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. The MVA will print your new address on your license.
How long does a temporary digital license work?
Your temporary digital license is valid when ready after online renewal and works for most purposes until your physical card arrives. Some businesses or law enforcement may not accept it, so keep your old license if it is still valid. Your physical card should arrive within 7 to 10 business days.
What if my name changed since my last license?
You must renew in person if your name has changed. Bring a certified copy of the document showing the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The MVA will issue a new license with your updated name.
Can someone else renew my license for me?
For online and mail renewal, only you can complete the process using your own account and information. For in-person renewal, you must appear in person at the MVA office. The MVA does not allow a family member or representative to renew your license on your behalf.