How to Replace a Commercial Drivers License in Maryland
Applying for a Maryland CDL replacement credential is a mandatory step for commercial operators with lost, damaged or stolen credentials. The procedure to replace CDL license credentials must also be completed under different circumstances, such as after making changes to the listed name and/or address. Failure to obtain a duplicate commercial driving license may lead to serious consequences, such as license suspensions and various fines.
Commercial motorists can replace a damaged or lost CDL drivers license through the state Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). Note that the available application methods may vary depending on the reason for applying for a duplicate credential. Applicants for a DMV CDL replacement license will have to submit several types of information and pay the applicable replacement fee.
When do you need to get a duplicate CDL license in Maryland?
Drivers must apply for a duplicate CDL license in various situations. While replacing a lost CDL driving license in Maryland is the most common reason for requesting a duplicate credential, commercial operators will also have to get a replacement CDL if they:
- Have damaged or destroyed their driving license.
- Have had their CDL credential stolen.
- Have recently made changes to their personal information, such as address, name or gender.
- Are adding or removing certain license restrictions or designations.
Documents Required to Replace a CDL in Maryland
To successfully replace a CDL license, you will have to submit certain types of documents, which may vary depending on the reason for requesting a duplicate credential. The following list contains the standard documents needed for a CDL replacement in various situations:
- Standard proof of identity
- The old CDL license, if available
- Proof of address, if updating your address information
- Documentation support another type of correction, such as a name change or gender change
- Valid Med Cert documentation, such as a DOT card, waiver exemption or skills performance evaluation
When replacing a CDL license in MD, you may also have to furnish additional paperwork, depending on your circumstances.
How to Replace a Maryland CDL in Person
If you are wondering how to replace a CDL license, note that you will be required to submit your request in person through a full-service MVA office. The standard steps to apply for a duplicate CDL in Maryland are outlined below:
- Fill out any applicable replacement form.
- Submit proof of identity.
- Surrender the old CDL credential, if available.
- Furnish additional supporting documents, depending on your circumstances.
- Present your CDL-specific paperwork.
- Pay the replacement fee.
The state MVA will process your request for an MD CDL replacement credential when it verifies the authenticity of the submitted paperwork and fee payments. If your application is successful, you will receive an interim paper receipt, which can be utilized as a temporary driving license until you receive the permanent photo license. The administration delivers its driving credentials by mail within four to seven business days. Your replacement CDL license will retain its original expiration date.
Note: While the state MVA offers an option to replace a noncommercial driving license via the internet, this application method is not yet available to commercial motorists.
How to Replace a Maryland CDL by Mail
If you are unable to replace your CDL license through a driver licensing office, you may be offered the option to get a replacement credential via other methods, depending on your circumstances. For instance, if you need to replace your damaged, stolen or lost CDL drivers license while outside of the state on a temporary basis, you may be able to submit a mail-in request to the MVA main office.
If you are permitted to obtain a Maryland commercial driver license replacement by mail, you will most likely have to order an application packet from the administration at your out-of-state address. Then, you will be required to complete and sign the applicable forms before mailing back your request at the provided address with the applicable fee payment. To check whether this or any other application method is available to you under your current circumstances, contact the state MVA.
CDL Replacement Fees in Maryland
The last step in the MVA CDL replacement process is arranging payment for the applicable replacement fee. The administration accepts various payment cards, cash and checks with your personal information. The applicable CDL replacement fees in MD currently include only the following costs:
- CDL duplicate cost: $20
- CDL correction cost: $20
Note: In addition to the above base fee, you may be required to pay additional costs, depending on your circumstances. For instance, if you are adding a CDL HAZMAT endorsement, you will also have to pay the background check fee of $86.