What you need to do to get a Maryland driver's license for the first time
To get a new Maryland driver's license, you visit your local Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office in person, bring specific documents, pass a vision test and written exam, and have your photo taken. The whole process takes about an hour if you arrive during a quiet time. You cannot complete this entirely online — Maryland requires you to appear in person and pass the knowledge test on-site.
Maryland issues licenses that are valid for eight years. If you already have a license from another state and are moving to Maryland, you can exchange it for a Maryland license without retaking the written test, though you will still need to visit an MVA office and bring your out-of-state license plus proof of Maryland residency.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit an MVA office in person with a valid government ID, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Maryland residency to get a new license.
- First-time applicants take a written knowledge test and a vision test at the MVA office; you cannot take the written test online.
- Maryland driver's licenses are valid for eight years from the date of issue.
- You can check wait times and book an appointment online through the MVA website before you go, which often reduces your time at the office.
Documents you must bring to the MVA office
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate. This is your proof of identity and citizenship. A photocopy or expired document will not work.
You also need proof of your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration.
Bring two documents that prove you live in Maryland. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail addressed to you at your current Maryland address. The documents must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days. A post office change-of-address form does not count as proof of residency.
The written test and what it covers
The Maryland written test has 25 questions about traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 19 questions correctly to pass. The test covers topics like right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking laws, and what different road signs mean.
You can study using the free Maryland Driver's Manual, which the MVA provides online and in print at every MVA office. The manual contains all the information tested on the exam. Many people study the manual for a few hours before their test and pass on the first try. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or return another day at no extra charge.
The test is given on a computer at the MVA office. You do not need to bring anything to take it — the MVA provides the test itself. You will have time to review your answers before you submit.
Vision test requirements
You will take a vision screening at the MVA office using their equipment. You must be able to read letters and numbers on a chart from a specific distance. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring them with you and wear them during the test.
If you fail the vision test, the MVA will not issue your license that day. You will need to see an eye doctor, get a vision correction form signed by the doctor, and return to the MVA with that form. Some people bring their glasses prescription or recent eye exam results to speed up this process if they think their vision might be borderline.
Photo and fingerprinting at the MVA
The MVA takes your photo at the office as part of the license issuance. You cannot bring a photo from home. Wear something you feel comfortable in — the photo will be on your license for eight years. You do not need special clothing, but avoid hats, sunglasses, or anything that obscures your face.
Maryland also takes your fingerprints at the MVA office during the license process. This is a standard part of the process and takes only a few minutes. The fingerprints are used to verify your identity and check your background.
How to book an appointment and what to expect on the day
You can book an appointment online through the Maryland MVA website. Appointments are free and often reduce your wait time significantly. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait longer, especially during busy times like early morning or lunch hours. If you book an appointment, arrive about 10 minutes early.
When you arrive, check in at the front desk and give the staff your documents. They will verify everything is in order. You will then wait for your number to be called. At your turn, you will take the vision test, then the written test on a computer. If you pass both, you will have your photo taken and fingerprints recorded. Your license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.
Bring all your documents in one folder or envelope so you do not lose anything while you wait. The MVA office can be crowded, and it is straightforward to misplace papers on a chair or table.
Cost and how you pay
A new Maryland driver's license costs $70. You can pay by cash, debit card, or credit card at the MVA office. Some offices accept checks, but call ahead to confirm. You pay at the time you explore, not when you pick up your license.
If you need your license faster than the standard 7 to 10 business days, you can request expedited mail delivery for an additional fee. Ask the MVA staff about this option when you explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Maryland license without taking the written test?
If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, you can exchange it for a Maryland license without retaking the written test. You still need to pass the vision test and bring proof of Maryland residency. If you have never had a driver's license, you must take the written test.
What happens if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test the same day at no extra charge, or you can come back another day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Most people pass on the second attempt after studying the manual more carefully.
How long does the whole process take at the MVA office?
If you have an appointment and arrive during a slower time, the process usually takes 30 to 60 minutes from check-in to photo. Walk-ins during busy hours may wait 1 to 2 hours. Booking an appointment online is the fastest way to reduce your time at the office.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring something else?
You can bring your Social Security card, but you do not have to. A W-2, 1099, tax return, or letter from the Social Security Administration all count as proof of your Social Security number. Choose whichever document you have easiest access to.
When will I receive my new license in the mail?
Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days after you explore. You will receive a temporary paper license at the MVA office that you can use to drive while you wait for your permanent card to arrive. Keep the paper license with you until the plastic card comes.