How to Renew Your Maryland Driver License

Step-by-step guide for renewing your Maryland license through MD MVA. Covers online, mail, and in-person options, fees, and what to bring.

Validity 8 years

Standard fee $64

Renew early Up to 1 year before expiration

After expiration No grace period; if expired one year or longer, reapply as new applicant including vision and knowledge tests

Step 1 — Check if you can renew online

Eligible drivers can renew online or at a kiosk if their renewal notice indicates eligibility. Limited-term licenses and licenses expired over one year require in-person renewal.

Start your online renewal at MD MVA →

Step 2 — Gather your documents

For an in-person renewal, bring:

Your current Maryland driver license.
Proof of identity (passport, certified birth certificate).
Proof of Maryland residency — utility bill, lease, or bank statement showing your current address (most states require two documents).
Social Security card or W-2.
Payment for the renewal fee (cash, check, or card — varies by office).

Step 3 — Pay the renewal fee

MD MVA charges $64 for a standard non-commercial license renewal valid for 8 years. CDL and motorcycle endorsement renewals cost extra; check the official fee schedule for exact amounts.

Step 4 — Take a vision test (if required)

Vision certification required for drivers 40 and older; results must be no more than two years old and submitted by an approved provider. Bring your glasses or contacts if you wear them.

Step 5 — Receive your new license

You'll get a temporary paper license at the DMV that's valid for 30-60 days. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail in 7-14 business days. If your renewal was online, expect 10-21 days mailing time.

REAL ID upgrade in Maryland

All Maryland driver's licenses meet REAL ID standards and include advanced security features.

Common pitfalls

Don't forget address updates. If you moved since your last renewal, update the address before renewing — many states won't mail to a non-matching address.
REAL ID upgrade requires originals. Photocopies of your birth certificate or passport will be rejected. Bring the originals or certified copies.
Walk-in waits can be 2-4 hours. Book an appointment online at any of Maryland's DMV offices.

Find your nearest Maryland office

Use our Maryland DMV office finder to locate the closest MD MVA location with addresses, hours, and turn-by-turn directions.

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