Maryland Driver’s License Renewal Guide

Updated on Jul 19, 2021
Did you know, in some parts of Maryland, it’s illegal to swear in your car? All 4,463,862 licensed drivers in the state must keep their vocab PG on the roads! But there are about half that number for registered vehicles in the state; most are 4-door sedans. The Honda Accord was actually the most popular car in 2021!The low number of registrations is partly due to the efficient public transportation system used in the metropolitan areas of Maryland. The MTA Maryland operates about 80 bus lines throughout Baltimore-Washington

How do I renew my Maryland driver’s license?

Maryland is making it faster and easier for many drivers with online driver’s license renewals. But, there are still many options beyond online renewal, and in some instances, you must physically go to the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) branch office.

Here is information on how to renew a Maryland driver’s license.

When do you have to renew your license in MD?

Sixty days before your license expiration date, the Motor Vehicle Administration will notify you by mail that it is time for your Maryland license renewal.

If you have changed address or email and have not updated the MVA, you are still responsible for knowing when your driver’s license expires and for having it renewed.

How do you renew your Maryland driver’s license?

The notice you receive from the MVA will have instructions on the process for renewing your license. The options include online, by mail, using an MVA kiosk and in person.

Maryland drivers under the age of 40 and who are eligible cannot renew their license in person. If your instructions indicate this, you must complete your Maryland driver’s license renewal online, at an MDOT MVA Kiosk, or by mail.

Online Maryland Driver’s License Renewal

If the instructions allow or require you to renew online, simply go to the link provided, enter the appropriate information and you should have your new license within 4-7 days, provided the mailing information in the system is correct.

In Person Maryland Driver’s License Renewal

There are some situations that require a visit to the MVA branch. If a new photograph is required or additional documentation is required, you will have to do this in person.

Please note, if you have been married or divorced or otherwise have changed your name since your last license, make sure you first change your name with the Social Security Administration.

If the Social Security records do not match the MVA records (name, date of birth) you will not be able to complete your Maryland license renewal. Make sure to bring documentation of your name change with you.

MVA Kiosk Maryland Driver’s License Renewal

Another option for drivers who are eligible for online renewal is to use an MVA Self-Service Kiosk. If you’re over 40, and need to have a vision test, simply go to an authorized online vision certification provider within 12 months of your renewal date, and they will submit your results directly to the MVA. In this case, you can use the kiosk.

If you need to provide additional documentation, the kiosk process will notify you that you must go in person to complete your license renewal.

Renewing a Driver’s License by Mail

If your instructions say that you are to renew by mail, simply fill out the application, have a doctor sign the vision certification, write your check for the fee and mail all the documents to the MVA. Make sure you mail the renewal at least 15 days before your license expires.

Also, ensure your mailing address is correct so there are no delays in receiving your valid license. If you do have to change your information, you’re going to have to go the MVA branch in person.

Note: All Maryland license renewals are now delivered through the mail within 4-7 business days.

How much does it cost to renew?

You have a choice when it comes to renewing your Maryland driver’s license. Essentially, the cost is six dollars per year. The renewal period can be five ($30), six ($36), seven ($42), or eight ($48) years. A commercial driver’s license (CDL) renewal has a fee of $50.

Maryland has made great strides in making it easier for everyone to renew their driver’s license. With so many options you can easily stay up to date with the MVA.