What documents you need to bring to the MVA
To get a Maryland driver's license as an adult, you will need to visit a Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office in person with specific documents. Maryland requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number — you cannot get a license by mail or online.
For proof of identity, bring a valid passport, a military ID, or a certified birth certificate. If you use a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy from the state where you were born, not a photocopy. A school ID or work ID alone will not work as your primary identity document.
For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current Maryland address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill or credit card statement will not work for this purpose.
For 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.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit an MVA office in person with a valid identity document, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and proof of your Social Security number.
- Maryland offers a standard driver's license and a REAL ID-compliant license, which costs more but is required for federal buildings and domestic flights after May 2025.
- The written test covers Maryland traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the free MVA manual available on the Maryland MVA website.
- The road test requires you to bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and passes a safety inspection, and you must demonstrate basic driving skills.
- Processing times vary by location, but you should expect to spend two to three hours at the MVA office on the day you explore.
Standard license versus REAL ID
Maryland offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a REAL ID-compliant license. The main difference is that a REAL ID license meets federal security standards and can be used to enter federal buildings, military bases, and board domestic flights. A standard license cannot be used for these purposes as of May 7, 2025.
A REAL ID license costs more than a standard license. The exact fee depends on the length of the license you choose — a four-year license, an eight-year license, or a ten-year license. You will pay the same documents fee for either type, but the REAL ID designation adds an additional charge.
If you are unsure which type to get, most people choose REAL ID because the extra cost is small compared to the hassle of obtaining a passport or other federal ID later. You can always upgrade from a standard license to a REAL ID license at a later date by returning to the MVA with your documents.
The written test and what it covers
Before you can get a license, you must pass a written test on Maryland traffic laws and road signs. The test has 25 questions, and you must answer at least 19 correctly to pass. You get one attempt per visit to the MVA, so if you fail, you will need to return on another day to try again.
The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, and what different road signs mean. You can study using the free Maryland Driver's Manual, which is available as a PDF on the Maryland MVA website. The manual is about 50 pages and contains all the information you need to pass the test.
You may take the test in English or in one of several other languages, including Spanish, French, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Korean. Tell the MVA staff which language you prefer when you arrive.
The road test and vehicle requirements
After you pass the written test, you must pass a road test to demonstrate that you can drive safely. The road test lasts about 15 to 20 minutes and takes place on public roads near the MVA office. The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks like parking, turning, and stopping.
You must bring a vehicle that is registered in Maryland, has current insurance, and passes a safety inspection. The vehicle's registration and insurance documents must be in the car with you during the test. The safety inspection checks that your lights, brakes, windshield wipers, and mirrors all work correctly.
If you do not own a vehicle, you can borrow one from a friend or family member as long as it meets these requirements. The person who owns the vehicle does not need to be present during the test, but you will need to bring proof that you have permission to use it — a note from the owner is usually sufficient.
How to schedule your appointment
You can schedule an appointment at an MVA office online through the Maryland MVA website or by calling 410-768-7000. Walk-ins are also accepted at most locations, but wait times can be long — scheduling ahead usually means a shorter wait.
When you schedule, you will choose which MVA office you want to visit and which time slot works for you. Some offices are busier than others, so if you have flexibility, choosing an office in a less populated area or a time slot early in the morning may mean a shorter wait.
Bring all your documents with you on the day of your appointment. If you are missing any required documents, the MVA staff will not be able to issue your license, and you will need to return another day.
Fees and how long it takes
The total cost of a Maryland driver's license depends on which type you choose and how long you want the license to be valid. A standard four-year license costs less than a standard eight-year license, which costs less than a standard ten-year license. A REAL ID license costs more at each validity period.
You will receive a temporary paper license on the day you pass your road test. This temporary license is valid for 45 days and allows you to drive while you wait for your permanent plastic license to arrive in the mail. Your permanent license usually arrives within two to three weeks.
If you need your license sooner, you can pay an additional fee to have it expedited, though this is not always necessary since the temporary license is valid for driving.
If you already have a license from another state
If you have a valid driver's license from another state and you are moving to Maryland, you do not need to take the written test or road test again. Instead, you can exchange your out-of-state license for a Maryland license by visiting an MVA office with your documents.
You will still need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. You will also need to bring your current out-of-state license. The MVA will take your old license and issue you a Maryland license.
If your out-of-state license is expired, you will need to take the written test and road test as if you were getting a license for the first time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test and road test on the same day?
Yes. If you pass the written test, you can usually take the road test the same day if an examiner is available. However, some MVA offices may not have availability, so ask the staff when you finish the written test.
What happens if I fail the road test?
You can retake the road test on another day. There is no limit to how many times you can take it, but you will need to pay the test fee each time. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.
Do I need to renew my license if I move to a different address in Maryland?
No. You can update your address online through the Maryland MVA website or by mail without renewing your license. You only need to renew when your license expires.
What if I lost my Social Security card and do not have a W-2 or tax return?
You can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration, or you can bring a letter from them stating your Social Security number. You can order this letter online or by visiting a local Social Security office.
Is there an age limit for getting a driver's license in Maryland?
No. Maryland does not have an upper age limit for obtaining a driver's license. However, drivers over 70 must renew their license every three years instead of every eight or ten years.