How to Replace Your Maryland Driver's License

What You Need to Do to Replace Your Maryland License

To replace your Maryland driver's license, you'll visit the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) in person with proof of identity and residency. Maryland does not issue replacements by mail or online, so you must appear at an MVA office. The process takes about 30 minutes if you're renewing an expired license, but longer if you need to correct information or if you've lost your license and need a duplicate.

The MVA will photograph you, verify your information against state records, and issue a temporary paper license on the spot. Your plastic card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If your license was lost or stolen, you can request a replacement with a new number for a higher fee, though most people get a duplicate with the same number.

Key Takeaways

You must visit an MVA office in person with a valid ID and proof of Maryland residency to replace your license.
Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a birth certificate or tax return.
A duplicate replacement (same number) costs less than a new license with a different number.
You'll receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Bring your current license if you have it, or a police report if it was stolen.

Documents You Need to Bring

Bring one form of valid photo ID — your current Maryland license, passport, military ID, or state ID card. If your license is expired, any of these other documents will work. You also need proof that you live in Maryland: a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address.

You'll need to provide your Social Security number. If you don't have it memorized, bring a document that shows it: your Social Security card, birth certificate, W-2, or tax return. The MVA will not accept a photo of these documents — bring the original or a certified copy.

If your license was stolen, bring a police report or the case number. If your license was lost, you don't need a report, but tell the MVA staff when you arrive. If you're correcting information on your license (name, address, or other details), bring documents that support the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Where to Go and How to Schedule

The MVA operates about 25 full-service offices across Maryland. You can visit any of them — you don't have to go to the one nearest your home. The main office is in Glen Burnie, but most people use a local branch. Find the office nearest you and its hours on the MVA website at mva.maryland.gov.

You can schedule an appointment online through the MVA website or by calling 410-768-7000. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments move faster and you won't wait as long. If you schedule an appointment, arrive 10 minutes early. If you walk in, expect to wait 30 minutes to an hour during busy times, especially mid-morning and mid-week.

Some MVA offices have longer waits than others. If your local office is consistently busy, consider visiting a less-crowded branch nearby, or schedule an appointment to skip the line.

Cost and Payment Methods

A duplicate license (same number) costs $25. A new license with a different number costs $70. Most people choose the duplicate unless their license was stolen and they're concerned about fraud. You can pay with cash, debit card, or credit card at the MVA office.

If you're replacing an expired license and you're over 60, the cost is lower — ask the MVA staff about senior rates when you arrive. If you're replacing a license that was suspended or revoked, you'll need to resolve that issue first; the MVA cannot issue a new license until the suspension or revocation is lifted.

What Happens at the MVA Office

When you arrive, check in at the front desk and give them your documents. An MVA employee will verify your identity, check your Social Security number against state records, and ask you to confirm your address and other information. They'll take a new photograph for your license. You cannot wear a hat, sunglasses, or head covering unless for religious reasons, and your face must be clearly visible.

The employee will print a temporary paper license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and works everywhere a regular license does — you can drive, show it as ID, and use it at the bank. Your permanent plastic card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If it doesn't arrive within two weeks, call the MVA to report it.

If Your License Was Lost or Stolen

If your license was stolen, you can request a new license with a different number. This costs $70 instead of $25 and takes the same amount of time. A new number protects you if you're worried the thief will try to use your license for fraud. Bring a police report if you have one, though it's not required — you can file a report after you get your new license.

If your license was lost, you can get a duplicate with the same number for $25. There's no security risk with a lost license the way there is with a stolen one, so most people choose the cheaper duplicate. You don't need a police report for a lost license.

If you lose your license again within a year, the MVA may charge you a higher fee or require you to take the written test again. Ask the MVA staff about their policy on repeat losses when you explore.

Correcting Information on Your License

If your name, address, or other information on your license is wrong, you can correct it when you replace it. Bring documents that support the change: a marriage certificate for a name change, a lease or utility bill for an address change, or a court order for other corrections. The MVA will update your record and issue a new license with the correct information.

If you only need to correct your address and your license is not expired, you can update it without replacing the license. Visit the MVA office or mail in a form DL-43 with proof of your new address. This costs less than a replacement and your current license stays valid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license online or by mail?

No. Maryland requires you to appear in person at an MVA office. You cannot replace your license online, by mail, or through any other method. You must visit an office with your documents and have your photograph taken.

How long does the plastic card take to arrive?

Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You'll receive a temporary paper license when ready that you can use to drive and as ID while you wait. If your card doesn't arrive within two weeks, contact the MVA.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

You must provide a Social Security number to get a Maryland driver's license. If you don't have one, you'll need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a license. Bring documentation of your identity and residency to the SSA office.

Can I use my temporary paper license to drive out of state?

Yes. Your temporary paper license is valid in all 50 states and works the same as your plastic license. You can drive anywhere and use it as ID. Keep it in a safe place until your plastic card arrives.

What if my address changed since my last license?

Tell the MVA staff your new address when you arrive. Bring proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. The MVA will update your record and print your new address on your replacement license.

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.