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How do I get my driver's license reinstated in Maryland?

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: 2026-05-17

Maryland driver's license reinstatement is managed by the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) under Title 16 of the Transportation Article.

1. Common Suspension Causes

  • DUI/DWI (Md. Transp. § 21-902): 6-month suspension for DUI 1st (per se BAC ≥ 0.08); 1-year for DWI; 2 years for refusal.
  • Points (Md. Transp. § 16-402): 5 points = warning letter; 8 points = suspension; 12 points = revocation.
  • No insurance: $150 + $7/day uninsured penalty (Md. Transp. § 17-106).
  • Failure to appear/pay: indefinite suspension.
  • Child support arrears: license suspension under Md. Fam. Law § 10-119.

    • 2. Reinstatement Steps

  • Pay the reinstatement fee — $30 (administrative), $150 (drunk-driving), per Md. Transp. § 16-208.
  • File SR-22 if MVA requests proof of financial responsibility.
  • Install Ignition Interlock under the Drunk Driving Reduction Act of 2016 (Noah's Law) — mandatory for any conviction involving alcohol (Md. Transp. § 16-404.1).
  • Complete Alcohol Education Program (12-hour minimum).
  • Pass MVA written/driving test if revocation period exceeded 6 months.

    • 3. Work-Restricted License

    After an MVA hearing, drivers may obtain a Modified or Restricted License for employment, education, medical, and treatment travel (Md. Transp. § 16-205.1). Mandatory IID for alcohol-related restrictions.

    4. Online Reinstatement

    Most non-DUI reinstatements can be initiated through the myMVA portal at mva.maryland.gov.

    This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • License suspension after DUI, especially with prior offenses
    • Suspension for child support arrears requiring family-court action
    • CDL holder facing suspension affecting livelihood
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • Md. Transp. § 16-208
    • Md. Transp. § 16-402
    • Md. Transp. § 21-902
    • Md. Transp. § 16-404.1
    • Md. Fam. Law § 10-119

    This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.