The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) oversees vehicle registration and titling, driver licensing, traffic safety programs and related services for the state of Maryland. This overview covers the major offerings from the Maryland MVA.
Forms
The MVA furnishes commonly used forms for motor vehicle transactions:
- License and ID applications
- Registration renewals
- Title transfers
- Address changes
- Driving records
- Specialty plates
Most standard Maryland MVA forms can be accessed online for completion digitally before printing to sign and submit. Some specialized filings are only provided at MVA branch offices.
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Registration Renewal Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration
Vehicle owners can renew Maryland registrations either 2 or 5 years based on criteria. Renewals can be processed:
- Online
- By mail
- In person
- At self-service kiosks
Online and mailed registration renewals require current insurance, mileage, emissions tests for certain counties, personal ID verification and payment.
Appointment Scheduling
Many MVA branch offices now offer scheduled appointments for high-demand transactions:
- Knowledge and road testing
- License issuance and renewals
- Title transfers
- Registrations
- Modifications & corrections
Appointments save time by reserving testing slots and agent availability at local branches. Book online up to 3 months ahead.
Driver Exam Stations
Maryland manages 70+ MVA branch offices conducting:
- Permit knowledge testing
- Behind the wheel exams
- Motorcycle license testing
- Commercial driver licensing
Branch locations with driver testing services can be searched via zip code on Maryland’s MVA website. Study manuals help applicants prepare.
2024 Drivers Manual
Maryland updates its Driver’s Manual every 2-3 years to publish new laws. The 2024 manual covers:
- Traffic regulations
- Safe driving techniques
- License application process
- Road signs
- Defensive driving tips
Be sure to consult the newest 2024 MD Drivers Manual when applying for learner’s permits or taking license exams this year. Download online or pick up printed copies.
License Renewals Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration
Maryland driver’s licenses are valid for 8 years, expiring on your birthday when renewal eligible. Licenses can be renewed:
- Online
- By mail
- In person
Some license renewals require new photos or vision rescreening. Name/address changes need supporting documentation as well during the process. License fees start around $48.
License Plates
Alongside standard plates, Maryland offers:
- Bay Plates – Chesapeake designs
- Special organizations
- State colleges
- Memorial tags
- Military affiliation plates
Terms, fees, limits and sign-up details for Maryland’s 150+ specialty plates vary widely and are documented on the MVA vanity plates portal online.
Drivers License Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration
To obtain an initial Maryland driver’s license, applicants must:
- Pass knowledge test for learner’s permit
- Hold permit minimum 9 months
- Pass road skills test
Those under 18 have restrictions on unsupervised driving. Full unrestricted licenses issued at age 18. Other license classes have specific requirements.
Contact MVA
Maryland MVA contact information:
- Phone: 1-800-950-1682
- Mail: 6601 Ritchie Highway, N.E. Glen Burnie, Maryland 21062
- Website: www.mva.maryland.gov
The MVA website provides interactive guides for appointment booking, forms, license renewal, registration, identification verification, records requests and testing locations.
Maryland MVA Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common MVA inquiries:
How do I track my license points?
You can access your Maryland driver record and active license points through the MVA’s online Driver Record Lookup system using your license ID information.
What is the minimum permit age?
15 years and 9 months. Maryland issues learner’s permits and begins graduated licensing for teens starting at 15 years, 9 months old.
When are emissions tests required?
Emissions or smog testing is required in Maryland renewal years for vehicles garaged in Baltimore City or select counties depending on your zip code and county of residence. Refer to MVA renewals page.
Can I renew registration if recently expired?
Yes, Maryland registrations can still be renewed online or by mail up to 6 months after expiration, with additional late fees applied.
Can I hold a license from another state?
No, you can only actively hold a Maryland driver’s license as a current state resident. Out-of-state licenses must be surrendered when switching.
- Further frequently asked questions covering Maryland vehicle and driver policies are answered on the official MVA website’s FAQ portal linked above.
