The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, or MVA, oversees private and commercial licensing and registration for vehicles in the state of Maryland. At some point, you’ll need to utilize their services, whether it’s to get a new drivers license, or renew your car’s registration. Here’s a quick guide to the things you’ll need to know about the MVA.
Find Your Local Maryland MVA Office
There are numerous MVA offices throughout the state of Maryland; how do you find one near you? The easiest way is to visit the MVA’s Locations page. Here you’ll find a list of all of the MVA offices, along with a map that not only shows their location, but the services that they provide.
Appointments at the Maryland MVA
Maryland does not offer appointments for most MVA services. However, you may make appointments using the MVA Central Scheduling System for the following:
- Driver Skills Test
- Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Endorsement
Maryland requires anyone looking to get a motorcycle license to complete a Basic Rider Course or Alternate Basic Rider course. Motorcycle riders may use the MVA Central Scheduling System to make reservations for the following courses:
- Basic Rider Course
- Basic Rider Course 2
- Alternate Basic Rider Course
For additional information, visit the MVA Central Scheduling System page here.
Maryland MVA Forms and Online Services
Even though you can only make appointments for a few items, the Maryland MVA offers some forms and services online, to make things easier. By visiting the MVA Online Services page, you may be able to save yourself a trip to an MVA office. You may be able to renew your license and registration, change your address, or take care of other administrative requirements. And if you do need to go to an MVA office, you can save time by downloading and completing required forms at home.
Driving Record Points in Maryland
Like most states in the U.S., Maryland uses a point system to ensure that habitual violators are assessed accordingly. When you receive a moving violation in Maryland, your record will be assigned a certain number of points, depending on the severity of the offense. If you accrue 5 to 7 points over the course of two years, you will be required to attend a Point System Conference and you may have to complete an approved Driver Improvement Course. Accruing a higher number of points will eventually result in license suspension and possibly revocation.
Your Maryland Driving Record
It’s a good idea to know what’s on your Maryland driving record. You may have forgotten about an old speeding ticket, and there is always the chance that there are errors on your record. You can get a copy of your Maryland driving record by visiting any Maryland MVA office, or you can order one online by visiting the Maryland MVA Driving Record page.
