Driving with a suspended license in Maryland can lead to serious consequences—including fines, extended suspension periods, and even jail time. Whether you suspect your license may be suspended due to unpaid tickets, missed court dates, or a lapse in insurance, it’s essential to check your status before getting behind the wheel.
Thankfully, Maryland offers several easy ways to find out if your driver’s license is valid or suspended. Here are the three main methods you can use to check your driver’s license status.
1. Check Online Through the Maryland MVA Website
The fastest and most convenient way to check your license status is through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) website.
Steps to Check Online:
- Visit the official MVA website.
- Navigate to the “Driver’s License Status” section or use the “MyMVA” portal.
- Enter your driver’s license number, date of birth, and other requested information.
- View your current license status instantly.
What You’ll See:
- License validity (active, suspended, revoked, etc.)
- Any outstanding fines or citations
- Points on your driving record
- Reinstatement requirements if your license is suspended
💡 Tip: Make sure your information is correct and up to date when entering your details. If you can’t access the online system, try one of the other two methods below.
2. Call the Maryland MVA Customer Service Line
If you’re unable to access the internet or prefer to speak to a real person, you can call the MVA directly.
Maryland MVA Contact Info:
- Phone: 1-410-768-7000
- Available Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
When calling, be prepared to provide:
- Your full name
- Date of birth
- Driver’s license number
- Possibly your Social Security number for verification
A representative will look up your information and confirm whether your license is valid or suspended.
3. Request a Driving Record in Person or by Mail
Another option is to obtain a certified copy of your driving record, which will indicate any suspensions, revocations, or points.
How to Request a Driving Record:
| Method | What to Do | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| In Person | Visit an MVA branch with your ID | $9 |
| By Mail | Send completed form (DR-057) with payment to MVA Glen Burnie | $12 |
| Online | Access through the MVA portal | $9 |
Your record will list:
- Suspensions or revocations
- Traffic violations
- Driving points
- License class and expiration date
Common Reasons for License Suspension in Maryland
Understanding why your license may be suspended can help you avoid issues in the future. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Accumulating too many points on your record
- Failing to pay traffic tickets or fines
- Missing a court date
- Driving without valid insurance
- DUI or DWI convictions
- Failing to pay child support
If you suspect any of the above apply to you, check your license status immediately and take action to resolve any outstanding issues.
What to Do If Your License Is Suspended
If you discover that your Maryland driver’s license is suspended, don’t panic—but do act quickly. Here’s what you should do:
- Find out the reason for the suspension (shown in your online record or via MVA customer service).
- Resolve the underlying issue—this could mean paying a fine, attending court, submitting documents, or completing a driver improvement program.
- Apply for reinstatement once eligible. This may involve paying a reinstatement fee or meeting specific requirements.
Driving while your license is suspended is a criminal offense in Maryland and can result in:
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Possible jail time (up to one year)
- Points added to your driving record
- Vehicle impoundment
Final Thoughts
Knowing the status of your Maryland driver’s license is a responsibility every driver should take seriously. With just a few minutes online or a quick phone call, you can avoid the serious consequences of driving on a suspended license. Whether you choose to check through the MVA website, by phone, or by obtaining a driving record, staying informed keeps you—and others—safe on the road.
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