If you live in Maryland and need to get a driver’s license, renew one, or make any updates, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) provides clear steps to help you. Whether you are a new resident in Maryland, have lost your license, or just need to update your personal information, this guide will help you navigate the process. This article covers 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 start, make sure your personal information is up to date, and you meet all the renewal requirements. You will need to pay the renewal fee. You can find more details and the link for online renewal on the MVA’s official website.
Updating or Correcting Your Maryland License
If you need to change personal details such as your name, address, gender, height, weight, veteran status, or organ donor status, you will need to request a corrected license. Here’s how to make those changes:
Address Change
You can update your address online via myMVA or at an MVA self-service kiosk. After updating your address, you will receive a free change of address card that must be carried with your license.
Organ Donor Status
You can add or remove your organ donor status either online or at a self-service kiosk.
Height, Weight, or Veteran Status
To update these details, make an appointment online under Driver’s Services, selecting the option “Correct My Maryland Driver’s License (Name Change).”
Gender Marker Change
Make an appointment online and choose the same option as above. Additional 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, you do not need to bring additional documents.
Before your appointment, ensure your name has been updated with the Social Security Administration, and wait at least 72 hours after updating before visiting the MVA.
There is a fee for getting a corrected license, except when updating the 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 this.
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 is only for cases where 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 done 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’ll 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 driving record verified by your country’s embassy).
- If the 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 done 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 to get or update your Maryland driver’s license. Always ensure you have the correct ID and documents ready, and remember to book an appointment for services that require one. By following these steps, you’ll save time and avoid unnecessary hassle.
