What you need to do to renew with the Maryland Vehicle Administration
The Maryland Vehicle Administration (MVA) requires you to renew your driver's license before it expires. The process depends on whether you renew in person, by mail, or online — and which one you can use depends on your license type, how long it's been since you last renewed, and whether your address or name has changed.
Most Maryland drivers can renew online through the MVA website if their license is not expired and they have not had certain violations. If you cannot renew online, you will need to visit an MVA office or use mail renewal. The renewal window typically opens 120 days before your license expires, and you should plan ahead because MVA office wait times vary by location and season.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the MVA website is the fastest option if your license is current and you meet the requirements, taking minutes to complete.
- Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and works for most drivers, but you must send documents to the MVA office and cannot renew if your license is already expired.
- In-person renewal at an MVA office requires an appointment (which you book online) and takes about 30 minutes once you are called, though wait times vary widely.
- You will need your current license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number for any renewal method.
- If your license is expired, you cannot renew by mail or online and must visit an MVA office in person.
Online renewal through the MVA website
Online renewal is available at mva.maryland.gov and is the fastest option if you meet the requirements. You can renew online if your license is not expired, you have no medical suspensions or restrictions that changed, and you have not had certain violations in the past few years. The process takes about 10 minutes and you pay the renewal fee by debit or credit card.
After you complete online renewal, the MVA mails your new license to the address on file. Standard mailing takes about two weeks. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. If you need the license sooner, some MVA offices offer expedited printing for an additional fee, but you must pick it up in person the same day or next business day.
Mail renewal if you prefer not to visit an office
Mail renewal works for most drivers and requires you to send your current license and a completed form to the MVA. You can read the renewal form from mva.maryland.gov or request one by phone at 410-787-7758. Include your current license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or bank statement dated within 60 days), and a check or money order for the renewal fee.
Mail your documents to the address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the MVA receives your envelope. You cannot use mail renewal if your license is already expired, and you cannot renew if your address or name has changed without visiting an office first. If you have medical restrictions or suspensions, mail renewal is not an option.
In-person renewal at an MVA office
In-person renewal is required if your license is expired, if your address or name has changed, or if you have medical restrictions. You must book an appointment online at mva.maryland.gov before visiting. Walk-ins are not accepted at most locations. Appointments are typically available within one to four weeks depending on the office and time of year.
Bring your current license (or expired license if you have no current one), proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The visit takes about 30 minutes once you are called. You can pay the renewal fee by cash, check, debit card, or credit card. The MVA can print your new license on-site for an additional fee, or mail it to you at no extra cost.
Documents and fees you will need
For any renewal method, you need your current or expired driver's license and your Social Security number. You also need proof of residency — a utility bill, bank statement, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within 60 days of your renewal. If your name has changed since your last license, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.
The standard renewal fee for a five-year license is set by Maryland law and varies slightly depending on your age and license type. The MVA website lists the exact fee before you pay. If you choose expedited printing at an office, there is an additional charge. Mail renewal and online renewal cost the same; in-person renewal costs the same unless you add expedited printing.
What to do if your license is already expired
If your license has already expired, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit an MVA office in person. Book an appointment online and bring the same documents as for a standard in-person renewal. Driving with an expired license is illegal in Maryland, so do not delay.
If your license expired more than a few years ago, the MVA may require you to pass a vision test or written knowledge test in addition to the standard renewal process. Call 410-787-7758 to ask whether your specific situation requires testing before you visit the office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license before the 120-day window opens?
No. The MVA system does not allow renewal until 120 days before your expiration date. If you try to renew early, the system will tell you when you become may be able to access. Plan ahead and renew as soon as the window opens if you need your new license quickly.
What happens if I miss my appointment?
If you miss your appointment, you will need to book a new one online. Depending on the office, you may be able to reschedule when ready or may have to wait for the next available slot. Do not show up without an appointment, as walk-ins are not accepted.
How long is a renewed license valid?
Most Maryland driver's licenses are valid for five years from the date of renewal. Your new license will show the expiration date. Some drivers over age 65 or with medical conditions may receive licenses valid for shorter periods.
Can I renew if I have unpaid traffic tickets or fines?
The MVA does not check for unpaid tickets during renewal. However, if you have an outstanding warrant or suspension related to unpaid fines, your license may be suspended and you cannot renew until that is resolved. Contact the court that issued the ticket to find out your status.
What if my address changed since my last renewal?
If your address changed, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit an MVA office in person so they can verify your new address and update your record. Bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days.