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How to Get ID & Documents in Maryland

Maryland issues state identification cards through the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), which is part of the Maryland Department of Transportation. The state operates full-service MVA branch offices and express offices across Maryland.

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Quick Answer

To get a state ID in Maryland, visit an MVA branch office with a birth certificate or passport, Social Security card, and two proofs of Maryland residency. A standard state ID costs $24, and the permanent card is mailed within 7-14 business days after the in-person application.

Maryland ID Agency

Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA)

Website: mva.maryland.gov

Phone: (410) 768-7000

State ID Card

Cost: $24

REAL ID: $24 (REAL ID compliant included at no extra charge)

Processing: Temporary document issued same day; permanent card mailed within 7-14 business days

Online renewal: Yes

Requirements:

  • One primary identity document (U.S. birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, or Certificate of Naturalization)
  • Social Security card or W-2 showing full SSN
  • Two proofs of Maryland residential address (utility bill, bank statement, lease, government mail)
  • Proof of legal name change if applicable (marriage certificate, court order)

Maryland operates full-service MVA branches and express offices. Full-service branches handle all transactions while express offices handle limited services. Appointments can be scheduled online and are recommended to reduce wait times. The MVA also offers a REAL ID Appointment Scheduler for expedited REAL ID processing.

Birth Certificate

Agency: Maryland Department of Health, Division of Vital Records

Cost: $24 (certified copy)

Online ordering: Yes

Processing: Walk-in: same day at Baltimore office. Mail: 6-8 weeks. Online through VitalChek: 5-10 business days

Order online: health.maryland.gov/vsa/Pages/birth-certificates.aspx

Maryland birth certificates can be ordered in person at the Division of Vital Records in Baltimore, by mail, or online through VitalChek. Maryland charges $24 for a birth certificate, which is on the higher end nationally. Only eligible applicants (the person named, parents, legal guardians, or authorized agents) may request copies.

Special Programs & Fee Waivers

Reentry ID Program

The Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS) operates reentry programs that assist individuals with obtaining identification before release. The department coordinates with the MVA to help returning citizens obtain state IDs. Maryland also has a network of reentry organizations that provide ID assistance.

Homeless Provisions

Maryland does not have a formal statewide homeless ID fee waiver program. However, organizations such as the Maryland Center on Economic Policy and local homeless service providers assist with ID costs. Some jurisdictions, particularly Baltimore City, have local programs to help homeless individuals obtain identification.

Fee Waivers

Maryland does not offer general fee waivers for state IDs. Some community organizations and reentry programs provide financial assistance for ID fees. The Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service and local legal aid offices sometimes help with ID-related issues.

Recommended Order to Get Your Documents

If you have no documents at all, this is the order most reentry specialists recommend. Each document makes the next one easier to get.

  1. 1
    Birth certificate -- This is the foundation document. You can usually order it by mail with minimal ID. It unlocks everything else. Cost in Maryland: $24 (certified copy).
  2. 2
    Social Security card -- Always free. With your birth certificate, you can get a replacement SS card at any SSA office or online at ssa.gov. You can replace up to 3 cards per year, 10 in a lifetime.
  3. 3
    State ID card -- With your birth certificate and SS card, you have everything needed for a state ID at the MVA. Cost: $24.
  4. 4
    Other documents -- Once you have a state ID, you can open a bank account, apply for benefits, get a job, register to vote, and apply for a driver's license, passport, or other documents.

Pre-Release Document Planning Timeline

If you or someone you know is currently incarcerated, start the document process as early as possible. Many states allow document applications from inside the facility.

6-12 months out

Request a birth certificate by mail from your birth state. Contact your case manager or reentry coordinator about ID assistance programs. Ask if your facility has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Social Security Administration for in-facility SS card processing.

3-6 months out

Apply for your Social Security card replacement. If your facility has a partnership with the MVA, begin the state ID application. Gather any educational transcripts, vocational certificates, or GED documentation earned during incarceration.

1-3 months out

Confirm your documents are ready or in process. If your facility issues a DOC/prison release ID card, make sure it will be provided on release day. Identify the nearest MVA office and SSA office to where you will be living.

Release day

Get your prison release ID card, any documents your facility has prepared, and your personal property. Your release ID is a valid form of identification at many government offices. Visit the MVA as soon as possible to get your state ID.

Federal Release Identification Card (BOP)

If you or someone you know was incarcerated in a federal prison, the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) issues a Federal Release Identification Card with REAL ID-level security features. This card is accepted by TSA for domestic air travel and by many state MVA offices as a valid form of identification. Over 16,700 cards have been issued since October 2023.

The federal release ID is nota REAL ID, but it can be used as proof of identity when applying for a state ID or driver's license. It includes your photo, date of birth, and federal inmate number. Ask your unit team or case manager about the Federal Release Identification Card program before your release date.

Note: This program is for federal (BOP) facilities only. State prison release IDs vary by state -- see the reentry program section above for Maryland-specific information.

County Jail vs. State Prison: Different ID Situations

State prison releases typically have access to pre-release ID programs and reentry services. Many state corrections departments partner with the MVA to issue state IDs before release. Your facility case manager or reentry coordinator can help navigate this process.

County jail releases often get little or no document assistance. Jail stays are shorter, and most county jails do not have formal reentry ID programs. If you are released from county jail without ID, your best resources are:

  • Call 211 for local reentry and ID assistance programs
  • Contact your local Legal Aid office for help with documents
  • Ask your parole/probation officer about ID assistance
  • Visit a local shelter or reentry center -- many help with document recovery
  • Some MVA offices accept jail release paperwork as a secondary form of ID

Born in a Different State?

If you were born in a state other than Maryland, you will need to order your birth certificate from the state where you were born. Every state has a vital records office that processes mail-in requests. You can also use VitalChek.com (official partner for most states) to order online, though they charge a processing fee on top of the state fee.

If you are currently incarcerated in Maryland but were born elsewhere, your case manager or reentry coordinator can often help you request your birth certificate by mail from your birth state. Start this process at least 6 months before your release date, as out-of-state requests can take 4-8 weeks.

Born outside the U.S.? You will need a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (for U.S. citizens born overseas), a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Permanent Resident Card (green card). Contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or a local immigration legal aid organization for help.

Social Security Card -- Key Facts

Replacing your Social Security card is always free -- do not pay anyone for this service. You can get a replacement online at ssa.gov/myaccount, by mail, or in person at any SSA office. You are limited to 3 replacement cards per year and 10 in your lifetime.

Prison-SSA partnership: Many federal and state correctional facilities have a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Social Security Administration that allows inmates to apply for replacement cards using their prison ID as proof of identity. Ask your case manager if your facility participates. The SSA processes these applications and mails the card directly to the facility or to a designated release address.

No ID at all? If you have no other identification, the SSA may accept alternative evidence of identity. Visit an SSA office in person and explain your situation. Bring any documents you have, including prison release papers, medical records, or school records. See our guide for getting ID with no documents.

Other Important Documents

U.S. Passport -- A valid federal photo ID that can also serve as proof of citizenship. Useful as a backup ID. Costs $130 (book) or $30 (card). Apply at a passport acceptance facility (usually a post office). See our felon passport guide.
Criminal Record / RAP Sheet -- You have the right to request your own criminal history. This is useful for expungement applications, job interviews, and housing applications. Contact the MarylandState Police or use the FBI's Identity History Summary (costs $18, submitted via fingerprint card). See our guide to checking your own record.
Military Discharge Papers (DD-214) -- Veterans need their DD-214 for VA benefits, healthcare, and employment preferences. Request a copy from the National Personnel Records Center (free). Many county recorders also keep copies on file.
Selective Service Registration -- Males 18-25 are required to register. Registration is needed for federal financial aid (Pell Grants), federal jobs, and citizenship applications. Register or verify status at sss.gov.
Educational Transcripts & Vocational Certificates -- If you completed a GED, vocational training, or college courses during incarceration, contact the facility's education department for official transcripts before or soon after release. These documents help with employment and education applications. See our education & training guide.
Voter Registration -- Check your voting eligibility in Maryland and register to vote. See our Maryland voting rights guide.

Step-by-Step Guides

More Maryland Guides

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I get a Maryland state ID?
State ID applications are processed at MVA full-service branch offices. Maryland has multiple MVA locations across the state. Appointments are strongly recommended and can be scheduled online at mva.maryland.gov. Express offices handle limited services and may not process initial ID applications.
Can I renew my Maryland state ID online?
Yes, Maryland allows eligible ID holders to renew online through the MVA website. You must meet certain criteria including having a current valid ID and no changes to your personal information. Online renewal includes mail delivery of the new card.
How do I get a replacement birth certificate in Maryland?
Contact the Maryland Division of Vital Records. You can order in person at the Baltimore office ($24, same day), by mail ($24), or online through VitalChek. You need valid photo identification to request a copy.
Does DPSCS help inmates get ID before release?
Yes, the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services operates reentry programs that help inmates obtain identification documents before release. Case managers assist with gathering birth certificates and Social Security cards and coordinate with the MVA for state ID applications.
How much does it cost to get all my documents in Maryland?
A Maryland state ID costs $24 and a birth certificate also costs $24. A replacement Social Security card is free from the SSA. The total cost for a birth certificate and state ID is $48, which is on the higher end compared to other states.
Is a Maryland state ID REAL ID compliant?
Yes, Maryland issues REAL ID compliant identification cards at no additional cost. You must provide proof of identity, Social Security number, and two proofs of Maryland residency. REAL ID compliant cards display a gold star. The MVA offers a REAL ID Appointment Scheduler for streamlined processing.

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Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. Requirements and fees change frequently. Contact your local MVA, vital records office, or Social Security office for exact current requirements. For help, call 211 or visit 211.org.
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