Maryland drivers, take note: the rules for renewing your driver’s license have changed, and the updates are more significant than you might expect. Whether your license is about to expire or you’re just planning ahead, here’s what you need to know about the new requirements and procedures.
Major Changes to License Renewal
1. Longer License Validity—But With a Twist
New Term Lengths: Maryland is phasing in longer driver’s license terms. Instead of the traditional 5-year licenses, renewals can now be valid for up to 8 years. However, the exact duration (between 5 and 8 years) is randomly assigned by the Motor Vehicle Administration’s (MVA) computer system during the transition period. This means your next renewal could be for 5, 6, 7, or 8 years, depending on the system’s selection.
No Fee Increase: The renewal fee remains $6.00 per year, so an 8-year license costs $48.00, a 5-year license $30.00, and so on.
2. Renewal Notice and Eligibility
Advance Notification: You’ll receive a renewal notice by mail or email 60 days before your license expires. This notice will specify whether you must renew online, by mail, at a self-serve kiosk, or in person.
Under 40? Online Renewal Is Mandatory: Drivers under 40 who are eligible must renew online, by mail, or at an MVA kiosk. In-person renewals at MVA counters are no longer permitted for this group.
3. Vision Certification Requirements
Ages 40 and Over: If you’re 40 or older, you must submit a vision certification from an approved provider. The vision results must be electronically submitted and current within 12 months of renewal. If you use a separate vision form, you must renew in person.
4. Documentation and Name Changes
Name Change Procedures: If you’ve changed your name since your last renewal, update it first with the Social Security Administration. Bring supporting documentation to the MVA when you renew.
Address Updates: Make sure your address is current with the MVA to receive renewal notices and your new license.
5. Expired License Rules
Over One Year Expired: If your license has been expired for more than a year, you’ll need to pass both the knowledge and skills tests to renew, essentially reapplying as a new driver (but without needing a learner’s permit).
Renewal Methods
| Renewal Method | Who Is Eligible? | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Most drivers, especially under 40 | Vision certification required if 40+ |
| Only if renewal notice allows | Must submit application at least 15 days prior | |
| MVA Kiosk | Eligible drivers per renewal notice | Same as online renewal |
| In Person | Required for some (e.g., name changes) | Not available for eligible drivers under 40 |
Fees (No Change)
| License Term | Fee |
|---|---|
| 5 years | $30.00 |
| 6 years | $36.00 |
| 7 years | $42.00 |
| 8 years | $48.00 |
What Maryland Drivers Should Do Now
Check your renewal notice for specific instructions and eligibility.
Schedule your vision test if you’re 40 or older.
Update your address and name with the MVA and Social Security Administration as needed.
Renew early to avoid any lapse in your driving privileges.
Maryland’s overhaul of driver’s license renewal is designed to streamline the process and reduce trips to the MVA, but it comes with new rules and requirements. Stay informed, renew on time, and make sure you meet the updated criteria to keep driving legally and hassle-free.
Sources
[1] https://www.wbal.com/mva-changes-rules-for-license-renewals
[2] https://driving-tests.org/academy/renew/maryland
[3] https://mva.maryland.gov/about-mva/Pages/renew-your-license-info.aspx
[4] https://www.mbp.state.md.us/forms/2025_renewal_info.pdf
[5] https://health.maryland.gov/mbon/pages/olrenew-siteselect.aspx
