Maryland issues driver's licenses to immigrants regardless of immigration status

Maryland allows you to get a driver's license without proving citizenship or lawful immigration status. You do not need a Social Security number. The state issues the same license to everyone — there is no separate "immigrant license" or marking that shows immigration status. You can use it to drive, and it counts as a valid ID for many purposes, though some federal buildings and airports may not accept it for entry.

The process is the same as for any other Maryland resident: you visit a Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay the fee. The main difference is which documents you bring to prove who you are and where you live.

Key Takeaways

  • Maryland does not require citizenship or a Social Security number to get a driver's license, and immigration status does not appear on the license itself.
  • You must bring documents that prove your identity and Maryland residency, such as a passport, consulate ID, utility bill, or lease agreement.
  • You will take a written knowledge test and a road test at an MVA office; you can request the written test in languages other than English.
  • The license costs $70 for an eight-year license, and you can renew it by mail or in person before it expires.
  • A Maryland driver's license is not accepted as ID for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight, but it works for state and local identification.

What documents you need to bring

You must bring proof of identity and proof of Maryland residency. For identity, the MVA accepts a passport, a consulate-issued ID card, a national ID from your country of origin, or a foreign driver's license. The document must show your name, date of birth, and photograph. If your document is not in English, bring the original and a certified English translation.

For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and a Maryland address. A utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail all work. If you do not have a document in your name, you can bring a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, stating that you live there. You will also need to provide your Social Security number if you have one, but the MVA will not require it if you do not.

The written test and language options

You must pass a written knowledge test covering Maryland traffic laws and safe driving. The test has 25 questions, and you need to answer at least 19 correctly to pass. You can take the test in English, Spanish, French, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, or Arabic. If you need the test in a language not on that list, contact your local MVA office to ask about other options.

You can study using the Maryland Driver's Manual, which is free and available online in multiple languages on the MVA website. Many people study the manual for a few days and take the test the same week. You can retake the test if you fail, usually the same day or within a few days.

The road test and what to expect

After you pass the written test, you schedule a road test at an MVA office. The test takes about 20 minutes. An examiner sits in the car with you and watches you drive on local streets. They check whether you can start the car, use the mirrors, turn, stop, park, and follow traffic signs. You must bring a car that is registered and insured in Maryland, and the car must pass a safety inspection (working brakes, lights, wipers, and horn).

If you fail the road test, you can retake it after a waiting period, usually one to two weeks. Many people pass on the second or third attempt. The examiner will tell you what you did wrong so you can practice those skills before you try again.

Cost and how long it takes

A Maryland driver's license costs $70 for an eight-year license. You pay this fee when you pass the road test and are ready to receive your license. The MVA will take your photograph and issue your license on the spot, or mail it to you within a few days if the office is busy.

The entire process — from your first visit to passing the road test — usually takes two to four weeks if you study the manual and practice driving before you test. Some people do it faster if they already know how to drive and study intensively. There is no waiting list or delay based on immigration status.

What the license can and cannot be used for

A Maryland driver's license is valid for driving in Maryland and in other states. You can use it as ID when you rent a car, open a bank account, or enter a bar or restaurant. Police will accept it as valid identification if you are pulled over while driving.

However, a Maryland driver's license is not accepted for federal purposes. You cannot use it to board a domestic flight, enter a federal building that requires ID, or explore for certain federal jobs. If you need a federal ID, you would need to explore other options, such as a passport or a state ID card (which has the same restrictions). Some employers and schools may also have their own rules about what ID they accept.

Renewing your license before it expires

Your Maryland driver's license expires eight years after you receive it. The expiration date is printed on the front of the license. You can renew it by mail if your address has not changed and you have no medical conditions that would affect your driving. The MVA will send you a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires.

If you need to renew in person, you visit an MVA office, bring your current license and proof of residency, and pay the renewal fee (usually $70). You do not have to retake the written or road test unless the MVA asks you to. Renewing by mail is faster and costs less, so check your renewal notice to see if you are may be able to access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will getting a driver's license affect my immigration case or status?

No. Maryland does not share driver's license information with federal immigration authorities. Getting a license does not change your immigration status or create a record that immigration officials can use against you. The license is a state document, and the state does not report it to federal agencies.

Can I get a license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. Maryland does not require a Social Security number to get a driver's license. If you have one, you can provide it, but if you do not, you can still explore. The MVA will issue a license without it.

What if my passport or ID is expired?

An expired passport or ID can still be used to prove your identity for a driver's license, as long as it shows your name, date of birth, and photograph. The MVA accepts expired documents for this purpose. If your document is damaged or unreadable, bring it anyway and ask the MVA staff whether they can work with it.

Can I use my Maryland driver's license to fly on a plane?

No. A Maryland driver's license is not accepted for domestic flights. You would need a passport, a passport card, or a federal REAL ID-compliant document. If you are planning to fly, check with the airline about what ID they accept before you book your ticket.

How do I find the MVA office nearest me?

The Maryland MVA website lists all office locations, hours, and phone numbers. You can also call the MVA customer service line to find an office near you or to schedule a road test appointment. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead can help you plan when to visit.