What you need before you start

Maryland's Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) requires you to bring specific documents in person to get a driver's license. You cannot complete this entirely by mail or online — you must visit an MVA office and pass a written test and a driving test.

The documents you need depend on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an expired one, or moving to Maryland from another state. In all cases, bring proof of identity, proof of Maryland residency, and proof of your Social Security number. A passport works for identity. A utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement works for residency. A Social Security card, W-2, or tax return works for your Social Security number.

If you are under 18, you also need a parent or guardian to sign a consent form at the MVA office. If you are getting your first license at any age, you will need to complete a vision screening and pass a written knowledge test before you can schedule a road test.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit an MVA office in person with proof of identity, Maryland residency, and your Social Security number to get a driver's license.
  • First-time drivers must pass a written knowledge test before they can take a road test, regardless of age.
  • You can study for the written test using the Maryland Driver's Manual, available free on the MVA website.
  • Road tests must be scheduled in advance, and wait times vary by location and season — some offices have waits of several weeks.
  • If you are moving to Maryland from another state, you have 60 days to exchange your out-of-state license for a Maryland one.

The written test and what it covers

The written knowledge test has 25 questions and you must answer at least 19 correctly to pass. The test covers Maryland traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You take it on a computer at the MVA office on the same day you bring your documents.

The Maryland Driver's Manual is the official study material and covers everything on the test. You can read it online at the MVA website (mva.maryland.gov) or pick up a printed copy at any MVA office. Most people spend a few hours studying before taking the test. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at no extra cost, though you may have to wait a few hours.

Scheduling and taking your road test

After you pass the written test, you schedule a road test at the same MVA office or at a different one if you prefer. The road test is a 20-minute drive with an examiner who watches how you handle the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to other drivers. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition.

Road test appointments fill up quickly, especially in spring and summer. Some MVA offices have waits of four to six weeks. You can schedule online at mva.maryland.gov or by calling the office directly. If you fail the road test, you can retake it, but you will have to schedule another appointment and wait for the next available slot.

Getting your license after you pass

Once you pass both the written test and the road test, the MVA issues your license the same day. You will receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card arrives by mail within two weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving while you wait for the card.

Your Maryland driver's license is valid for five years if you are under 60, and eight years if you are 60 or older. The fee for a five-year license is $70. If you are getting your first license, you may also pay a $5 process fee.

If you are moving to Maryland from another state

Maryland law gives you 60 days after you move to exchange your out-of-state license for a Maryland one. You do not have to take the written test or road test again if your out-of-state license is still valid. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of Maryland residency, and proof of your Social Security number to an MVA office.

If your out-of-state license has expired, you will need to take both the written test and road test, just like a first-time driver. If you wait longer than 60 days to exchange your license, you will also have to take both tests.

Finding an MVA office and what to expect

Maryland has MVA offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on mva.maryland.gov. Some offices are busier than others — offices in Baltimore and the Washington, D.C. suburbs tend to have longer waits. If you can visit an office in a less populated area, you may wait less time.

Bring all your documents in originals (not copies) and arrive early. The written test takes about 15 minutes. If you pass and want to schedule a road test the same day, you can do that at the office. Plan to spend at least two to three hours at the MVA office for your first visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or by mail?

No. You must take the written test in person at an MVA office on a computer provided by the MVA. You cannot take it at home or through the mail.

What happens if I fail the road test?

You can retake it, but you must schedule another appointment. There is no extra fee for the retest. You will have to wait for the next available slot at your chosen office, which may be several weeks away depending on how busy the office is.

Do I need to bring my own car for the road test?

Yes. The vehicle must be registered in Maryland, have current insurance, and be in safe working condition. The examiner will check the brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and horn before the test begins.

How long is a Maryland driver's license valid?

Five years if you are under 60, and eight years if you are 60 or older. You can renew by mail or online if your license is not suspended and you have not had any major violations.

What if I lose my documents before I get to the MVA office?

You will need to replace them first. Contact your bank for a new bank statement, your utility company for a new bill, or the Social Security Administration for a replacement Social Security card. You cannot proceed without these documents.