How to Get a Driver's License in Maryland Without Proof of Citizenship

What Maryland offers and who can get it

Maryland issues a Real ID-compliant driver's license to people without proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency status. You do not need to be a citizen or have a Social Security number. The state calls this a standard Maryland driver's license — it looks and functions the same as any other, but it cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building.

If you need to fly domestically or enter federal facilities, Maryland also offers a REAL ID driver's license, which requires proof of lawful presence in the United States. That is a separate process with different document requirements.

This guide covers the standard license route, which is what most people without citizenship documentation pursue.

Key Takeaways

Maryland issues a standard driver's license to anyone who can prove Maryland residency and pass the written and driving tests, regardless of citizenship or immigration status.
You will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a Social Security number, a Maryland address with proof, and a valid passport or national ID from your home country.
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) processes all applications at their offices — there is no online option for first-time licenses.
The written test covers road signs and driving rules; the road test happens after you pass the written exam and get a learner's permit.
Bring original documents or certified copies; the MVA will not accept photocopies for most items.

Documents you need to bring to the MVA

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration requires specific documents in original or certified form. Photocopies are not accepted for most items. Bring a valid passport or national ID card from your home country — this proves your identity. If your passport is expired, it still works for this purpose.

You will also need proof of a Maryland address. A utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. The document must show your name and current Maryland address. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from the person whose name is on the bill, plus a copy of that bill.

Bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) letter from the IRS, or your Social Security card if you have one. The ITIN is a nine-digit number the IRS issues to people who file taxes but are not may be able to access for a Social Security number. If you do not have either, you can explore for an ITIN through the IRS before visiting the MVA — this takes several weeks.

You will also need to complete Form DL-43, the Maryland process for Driver's License or Permit. You can fill this out at home or at the MVA office.

How to get an ITIN if you do not have one

An ITIN is issued by the Internal Revenue Service and allows you to file federal income taxes. You do not need to be a citizen or have legal residency status to get one. The IRS issues ITINs to people who have a filing requirement but are not may be able to access for a Social Security number.

To request an ITIN, complete Form W-7 (process for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) and mail it to the IRS with proof of identity and proof of residency. A valid passport counts as proof of identity. A utility bill or lease counts as proof of residency. The IRS processes W-7 applications by mail only — there is no online option.

Processing takes 4 to 6 weeks under normal circumstances, though it can take longer during tax season. Once you receive your ITIN letter, bring it to the MVA. If you are filing taxes this year, you can request an ITIN at the same time you file your return through a tax preparer or community organization that offers free tax help.

Steps to get your Maryland driver's license

Step 1: Gather your documents. Collect your passport or national ID, proof of Maryland residency, your ITIN letter or Social Security card, and a completed Form DL-43. Make copies of everything for your records, but bring the originals to the MVA.

Step 2: Visit an MVA office. Go to your nearest Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration office with all documents. You cannot do this online or by mail. Bring the originals — the MVA will not accept photocopies. You can find office locations and hours on the MVA website (mva.maryland.gov). Some offices take walk-ins; others require appointments. Call ahead or check online to see if your local office requires a reservation.

Step 3: Complete the process and vision test. At the MVA, staff will verify your documents and have you complete or review Form DL-43. You will take a vision screening. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them.

Step 4: Take the written test. You will take a written exam covering Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test has 25 questions; you must answer at least 19 correctly to pass. You can take the test in English or several other languages. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or return another day.

Step 5: Get your learner's permit. Once you pass the written test, the MVA issues a learner's permit on the spot. This permit allows you to drive with a licensed driver in the car. You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old to get a learner's permit.

Step 6: Practice and schedule your road test. You must hold your learner's permit for at least 6 months before you can take the road test. During this time, practice driving with a licensed driver. When you are ready, schedule your road test through the MVA. Road tests are booked weeks in advance, so plan ahead.

Step 7: Take the road test. At your scheduled time, return to an MVA office with your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will drive. An examiner will ride with you and evaluate your driving. The test takes about 20 minutes. If you pass, you receive your driver's license on the spot.

Costs and timeline

The Maryland MVA charges a fee for a driver's license. The exact amount depends on the type of license and how long you want it to be valid. A standard driver's license valid for 5 years costs less than one valid for 8 years. Check the MVA website for current fees, as they change periodically.

The entire process from your first MVA visit to receiving your license typically takes 6 to 8 months, because you must hold a learner's permit for at least 6 months before taking the road test. If you already have driving experience and pass both tests on your first try, the process moves faster. If you need to retake the written or road test, add time for scheduling and additional visits.

What happens if you fail the written or road test

If you fail the written test, you can retake it when ready at the same MVA office or return another day. There is no waiting period between attempts. Most people pass on their second or third try. You pay a fee each time you retake the test.

If you fail the road test, you must schedule another appointment. Road test slots fill up weeks in advance, so you may wait several weeks before you can try again. You pay a fee for each road test attempt. Many people pass on their second attempt after more practice.

Using your Maryland driver's license

Your Maryland driver's license is valid for driving in all 50 states and U.S. territories. It works for renting a car, opening a bank account, and other everyday purposes that require a photo ID.

It does not work for boarding a domestic flight, entering a federal building, or other federal purposes. If you need to fly domestically, you will need a REAL ID driver's license instead, which requires proof of lawful presence in the United States. That is a different process process with different document requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Social Security number to get a Maryland driver's license?

No. You can use an ITIN instead. If you do not have either, you can get an ITIN from the IRS before explore for your license. The process takes 4 to 6 weeks.

Can I use my expired passport?

Yes. An expired passport still counts as valid proof of identity for the MVA. Bring the expired passport to your appointment.

What if I do not have a utility bill or lease in my name?

Bring a signed letter from the person whose name is on the bill, plus a copy of that bill showing your address. The letter should state that you live at that address. A bank statement or other official document with your name and address also works.

Can I take the written test in a language other than English?

Yes. The MVA offers the written test in multiple languages. Tell the MVA staff which language you need when you arrive, and they will provide the test in that language.

How long is my learner's permit valid?

Your learner's permit is valid for 18 months from the date it is issued. You must take your road test before the permit expires. If it expires before you are ready, you can renew it at an MVA office.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.