If you live in Maryland and need to get a driver’s license, renew it, or make any updates, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) has clear and easy steps to guide you through the process. Whether you are a new resident in Maryland, have lost your license, or just need to update your personal details, this guide will help you navigate the process. This article focuses on regular, non-commercial licenses only.
Renewing Your Maryland Driver’s License
If you already have a Maryland driver’s license and need to renew it, you can do so online or in person. Before you begin, make sure that your personal information is up-to-date and that you meet all the renewal requirements. You’ll also need to pay the renewal fee. For more information, including the link for online renewal, you can visit the MVA’s official website.
Updating or Correcting Your Maryland Driver’s License
If you need to change any personal details, like your name, address, gender, height, weight, veteran status, or organ donor status, you will need to request a corrected license. Here’s how to update these details:
Address Change
You can update your address online via myMVA or at an MVA self-service kiosk. Once you update your address, you will receive a free change of address card, which you must carry along with your license.
Organ Donor Status
You can either add or remove your organ donor status online or at a self-service kiosk.
Height, Weight, or Veteran Status
To update these details, make an appointment online under Driver’s Services, and select the option “Correct My Maryland Driver’s License (Name Change).”
Gender Marker Change
To update your gender marker, make an appointment online and choose the same option as above. More details are available on the MVA’s how-to page.
Name Change
To update your name, you will need to book an appointment online and bring legal proof of the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If your name is already updated in your valid U.S. passport, no additional documents are required.
Before your appointment, make sure your name has been updated with the Social Security Administration, and wait at least 72 hours after the update before visiting the MVA.
There is a fee for getting a corrected license, except when you’re updating your address.
Getting a Duplicate Maryland License or ID Card
If your license is lost or damaged, you can request a duplicate online or at an MVA kiosk. The duplicate will be mailed to the address on file. In-person services are not available for duplicates.
Lost or Stolen License or Permit
- Lost License or Permit: Apply online for a duplicate, which will be mailed to your address on file.
- Stolen License or Permit: If your license is stolen, you must visit an MVA branch in person and bring proof of identity. This applies only if no changes are being made to your license.
Moving from a Provisional to a Regular License
If you have a provisional license and are ready to upgrade to a regular license, visit the Maryland Graduated Licensing System page for full instructions on how to make the switch.
Exchanging an Out-of-State License for a Maryland License
If you’ve recently moved to Maryland, you must exchange your out-of-state license for a Maryland license within 60 days (30 days for commercial licenses). Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Present your out-of-state license (or a certified driving record if you don’t have the physical license).
- Take a vision test, either one taken in the past 24 months or at the MVA.
- Provide proof of age, identity, and Maryland residency (use MVA’s document guide).
- Pay the required fee.
If you’ve held your license for less than 18 months, you will receive a provisional license. If your license has expired for a year or more, you will need to pass both the knowledge and driving tests. Learner’s permits from other states cannot be exchanged.
Exchanging an Out-of-Country License for a Maryland License
If you hold a license from another country, here’s what you need to exchange it for a Maryland license:
- Proof of age, identity, and Maryland residency.
- Your current or expired out-of-country license (or a verified driving record from your country’s embassy).
- If your license is not in English, you will need a translation from an approved translator or an international driver’s license.
- A vision test, or one completed by a doctor in the last 24 months.
If you’ve never been licensed in the U.S., you must complete a 3-hour drug and alcohol education course.
You may need to take knowledge and driving tests unless you are from certain countries like Canada, France, or U.S. territories. If your license is from a country like Korea, Germany, or Japan and it’s expired, you will need to take all the tests. If you’ve never had a license before, you must obtain a Maryland learner’s permit.
Whether you are renewing your current license, updating your personal details, or moving from another state or country, the MVA offers a straightforward process for getting or updating your Maryland driver’s license. Make sure you have the correct identification and documents ready, and don’t forget to book an appointment for services that require one. Following these simple steps will save you time and help you avoid unnecessary hassle when dealing with your Maryland driver’s license.
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