If you are a driver with a lost drivers license in Maryland, then you should request a duplicate copy through the Maryland Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) as soon as you realize your license is missing. Most drivers can replace drivers license in MD easily and inexpensively online or at an MVA kiosk, and mail-order replacements are available to certain out-of-state MD drivers. You must obtain a replacement drivers license to meet the requirements of Maryland driving laws. Failure to have a valid driving credential on your person when operating a vehicle can result in a traffic ticket if a law enforcement officer stops you.

A valid copy of drivers license credentials means having a card with legible information and photo of the cardholder. Having a damaged card may also result in a citation. In both cases of a missing or marred card, you will need to request a duplicate copy as a replacement. Likewise, you may need to request a new copy if details on your card have changed. To learn details surrounding how to replace drivers license in Maryland, continue reading the information outlined in the sections below.

When is a replacement drivers license required in Maryland?

A replacement driver license in MD is required when your current copy is misplaced, lost or stolen. It is important to take prompt action to replace lost drivers license documents in order to protect your identity and prevent legal problems should your credentials fall into the wrong hands.

A duplicate drivers license in Maryland is also necessary for a card that has been mutilated in a way that renders the text illegible or blocks the photo from being clearly seen. Additionally, because your current credentials should always represent your current status, you should replace your license after experiencing a name change, address change or significant change in your appearance.

How to Replace Your Drivers License Online in Maryland

The MD MVA encourages you to get a drivers license copy online whenever possible to save time and cut down on administrative costs. To access MVA online drivers license replacement services, visit the website and choose “Driver’s License Services” from the list on the left of your screen.

You will then enter your valid email address and/or your phone number to enter the system. Follow the prompts, pay the fee by credit or debit card and at the end of your transaction, print a temporary receipt that will grant you legal driving privileges while you wait for the plastic copy of your card to arrive. If you need to change the address on your drivers license, then you may do so online before processing your request.

A drivers license replacement issued by the state of Maryland includes the most current security features and will be delivered to you by mail within seven to 10 business days. Your new MD DMV duplicate license will be REAL ID compliant.

Note: If you need to expedite your duplicate drivers license, then you may pay an expediting fee and receive your license the next business day via USPS.

How to Replace Your Drivers License by Mail in Maryland

In general, mail-order drivers license replacement is limited to those who are living out-of-state when the need for a replacement arises and will remain there more than 45 days before being able to return to MD for a replacement. If you are expected to return to MD in less than 45 days, then you may mail a replacement drivers license request letter to the MVA Absent from State Unit at the address in Glen Burnie.

Your letter should be signed and dated and include the following information:

• Full name and date of birth
• Your driver’s license number
• Your current phone number, out-of-state address and your permanent MD address
• Your reason for requesting a temporary license

Additional directions for replacing drivers license documentation while out-of-state are detailed below.

How to Replace Your Maryland Drivers License in Person

If you are wondering, “Where can I get a copy of my drivers license in person in the state of Maryland?” then you should be aware that replacement license transactions in MD are no longer handled over the counter at your local MVA office, with few exceptions.

Most in-person drivers license replacement requests can be fulfilled through the MVA kiosks located inside MVA branch offices. Using an MVA kiosk is similar to the process to get a drivers license copy online, but if you have trouble processing your request, then MVA employees are readily available to assist you.

Out-of-State Drivers License Replacement in Maryland

If you need to get copy of drivers license credentials but are out of the state, then you have the option of using the online replacement method by following the steps outlined above. Because online drivers license copy requests are usually sent to the address on file with the MVA, you should call the MVA Absent from State Unit before attempting an online transaction to make sure that your license is sent to the correct address.

If you prefer to replace drivers license credentials totally by mail, then you should call the state and request a mail-in application. Once you receive your packet, carefully follow all directions for the forms and be sure to sign them where required. Include your fee payment and mail the package to the MVA Absent from State Unit Driver Services Division in Glen Burnie.

Maryland Drivers License Replacement Fees

When you get a copy of a drivers license document in MD, you will need to pay a fee of $20. The MD MVA accepts all major credit/debit cards, cash and checks made payable to the Motor Vehicle Administration. Keep in mind that this fee will vary if you request expedite services or if you are an active member of the military.

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