What you need to do to get a Maryland learner's permit as an adult
As an adult in Maryland, you can get a learner's permit by visiting your local Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office in person, passing a written knowledge test, and paying the fee. You do not need to take a driver's education course — that requirement only applies to people under 18. The whole process typically takes one visit, though you should bring the right documents to avoid a second trip.
Maryland's learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed driver in the car, and it's valid for two years. You'll need this permit before you can take the road test for your full license. The MVA issues the permit the same day you pass the test, so you can start practicing when ready.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit an MVA office in person with proof of identity, proof of Maryland residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
- The written knowledge test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices, and you need to score at least 70 percent to pass.
- The permit fee is $70 for a two-year permit, and you pay at the MVA office when you pass the test.
- With a learner's permit, you must have a licensed driver at least 21 years old in the front seat with you at all times.
- Your permit is valid for two years, and you can take the road test anytime after you've held it for at least 15 days.
Documents to bring to the MVA office
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or military ID as proof of identity. If you don't have one of these, the MVA accepts a combination of documents — for example, a state ID card plus a Social Security card. Check the MVA website for the full list of acceptable combinations before you go.
You also need proof that you live in Maryland. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address works. The document must be recent — usually within the last 60 days — and show your full name and address. A driver's license from another state counts as proof of identity but not proof of residency, so bring both types of documents.
Have your Social Security number ready, or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number if you don't have a Social Security number. You'll need this to complete your process. Bring your checkbook or debit card to pay the $70 permit fee.
How the written knowledge test works
The test has 25 multiple-choice questions about Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You have 30 minutes to complete it. The questions come from the Maryland Driver's Manual, which the MVA provides free at every office and online at mva.maryland.gov. You need to answer at least 18 questions correctly — a score of 70 percent — to pass.
The test is offered in English and several other languages. If English is not your first language, ask the MVA staff about language options when you arrive. You can take the test on a computer at the MVA office, and you'll know your score when ready after you finish.
If you don't pass on your first try, you can take the test again the same day at most MVA offices, though you may have to pay another test fee. Many people study the Maryland Driver's Manual for a few days before taking the test. The manual is straightforward and covers exactly what appears on the exam.
Where to find your local MVA office and what to expect
Maryland has MVA offices in every county. Find the one nearest you on mva.maryland.gov by entering your zip code. Some offices are busier than others — offices in larger cities often have longer wait times. You can check wait times on the website before you go.
Walk in during business hours with your documents. You do not need an appointment at most MVA offices, though some locations now offer online appointment scheduling. Arriving early in the day or on a weekday typically means a shorter wait. Bring all your documents in one place so you don't have to search for them at the counter.
The MVA staff will verify your documents, take your photo, and have you sign your process. Then you'll go to a computer station to take the written test. If you pass, you pay the $70 fee and receive your permit on the spot. The whole visit usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is.
Rules for driving with your learner's permit
A licensed driver who is at least 21 years old must sit in the front seat with you whenever you drive. This person is responsible for helping you learn and can take the wheel if needed. You cannot drive alone, even for a short trip to the store.
Maryland does not have restrictions on when you can drive or how many passengers you can have, unlike the rules for drivers under 18. You can drive at any time of day or night as long as a licensed driver is with you. You can also drive on highways and interstates.
Your permit is valid for two years from the date it's issued. You can take the road test anytime after you've held the permit for at least 15 days. If your permit expires before you pass the road test, you'll need to renew it at an MVA office.
What to do after you pass the road test
Once you're ready to take the road test, you'll schedule an appointment at an MVA office. Bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you'll be driving. The road test takes about 20 minutes and covers basic driving skills like parking, turning, and following traffic laws.
If you pass the road test, you'll receive your full driver's license the same day. If you don't pass, you can schedule another test. There's no waiting period between attempts, though you may have to pay another test fee. Many people take the road test within a few weeks of getting their permit, while others practice for several months first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take driver's education as an adult?
No. Driver's education is only required for people under 18 in Maryland. As an adult, you can get your learner's permit and take the road test without taking a course. However, some people choose to take a course anyway to build confidence or refresh their skills.
What if I fail the written test?
You can take the test again the same day at most MVA offices. There may be a fee for each attempt. Study the Maryland Driver's Manual before your next try — it covers all the topics on the test and is free at any MVA office or online.
Can I drive alone with a learner's permit?
No. You must have a licensed driver at least 21 years old in the front seat with you at all times. This is a legal requirement, and driving alone with a learner's permit can result in a fine.
How long is a learner's permit valid?
Your permit is valid for two years from the date it's issued. You can take the road test anytime after holding it for at least 15 days. If it expires before you pass the road test, you'll need to renew it at an MVA office.
What documents do I need to bring to take the road test?
Bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance for the vehicle you'll drive, and the vehicle itself. The examiner will inspect the vehicle to make sure it's safe and roadworthy before the test begins.