What you need to bring to the Maryland DMV

Maryland's Department of Motor Vehicles requires specific documents before you can take the learner's permit test. You must bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Maryland residency — all originals, not copies. A passport, military ID, or state ID counts as identity proof. A Social Security card itself is the easiest proof of your number, though a W-2 or tax return also works. For residency, bring a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.

If you are under 18, you also need a parent or guardian present with their own ID. Maryland law requires a custodian to sign the process in person. If your parent cannot attend, a court-appointed guardian or a person with power of attorney can sign instead, but they must bring documentation proving that authority.

Bring your Social Security card even if you have a number memorized. The DMV will not accept a verbal number or a photocopy. If you have lost your card, order a replacement from the Social Security Administration before your DMV visit — this usually takes one to two weeks.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring original documents proving identity, Social Security number, and Maryland residency; copies are not accepted.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must attend your appointment and sign the process in person.
  • The written test covers Maryland traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the free Maryland Driver's Manual available on the DMV website.
  • A learner's permit is valid for two years and allows you to drive only with a licensed adult 21 or older in the front seat.
  • You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old to take the learner's permit test in Maryland.

The written test and what it covers

The learner's permit test in Maryland has 25 multiple-choice questions about traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 19 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in multiple languages, including Spanish, Vietnamese, and French, so ask the DMV staff which languages are available at your location.

Study material is free and available on the Maryland DMV website. The Maryland Driver's Manual covers everything on the test and is the official source. Many people also use the DMV's online practice tests, which let you take sample questions under timed conditions. The test itself takes about 15 to 20 minutes once you sit down at the computer.

You can retake the test if you do not pass, but you must wait one business day before trying again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, though each attempt costs the same fee.

Fees and how to pay

A Maryland learner's permit costs $47 as of 2024, though this fee can change. Payment is cash, check, or card — the DMV accepts Visa, Mastercard, and Discover at most locations. Some DMV offices have ATMs on-site if you need cash, but do not count on it; bring your payment method with you.

The fee covers the permit itself and the written test. If you fail the test and retake it, you pay the full fee again. There are no discounts for students, low-income applicants, or military members on the learner's permit fee.

How long the permit is valid and what it lets you do

A Maryland learner's permit is valid for two years from the date of issue. During that time, you can drive only with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old sitting in the front seat next to you. The supervising driver must hold a valid driver's license — an expired license does not count.

You cannot drive alone, and you cannot have more than one passenger under 21 in the car unless they are your when ready family. You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., even with a supervising driver present. Violating these restrictions can result in a fine and may delay your road test.

Once you have held the permit for at least six months and completed a driver education course (if you are under 18), you can schedule a road test to earn your full license. The road test covers basic vehicle control, parking, and following traffic laws.

Scheduling your DMV appointment

Maryland DMV appointments can be scheduled online through the state DMV website or by calling 1-410-424-3600. Online scheduling is usually faster and shows available times at your nearest office. Walk-ins are accepted at some locations, but wait times can be several hours, especially during peak times like after school or on weekends.

When you schedule, choose a location near you — Maryland has DMV offices in Baltimore, Annapolis, Salisbury, and other cities. If you live in a rural area far from an office, plan travel time and consider scheduling early in the day when wait times are shorter. Bring your appointment confirmation number or email with you; the DMV may ask for it when you arrive.

If you need to cancel or reschedule, do so at least 24 hours in advance through the same online system or by phone. Canceling last-minute or not showing up may result in a fee or a delay before you can book another appointment.

What happens after you pass the test

Once you pass the written test, the DMV will issue your learner's permit on the spot. You will receive a physical card with your photo, signature, and permit number. Keep this card with you whenever you drive — you must show it to police if stopped, just like a full driver's license.

Your permit is valid when ready. You can begin supervised driving the same day you receive it. If you are under 18, you must also complete a driver education course before you can take the road test; this course is usually offered through your high school or a private driving school and takes several weeks.

If you lose your permit, you can request a replacement at any DMV office. There is a fee for replacement, usually around $20, and you will need to show ID again. A replacement permit is issued the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test after one business day has passed. There is no limit to how many times you can try, and each attempt costs the full $47 fee. Most people pass on the second or third attempt after studying the Maryland Driver's Manual more carefully.

Can I take the test if I am homeschooled?

Yes. Homeschooled students can take the learner's permit test at any age 15 years and 9 months or older, just like students in public or private schools. You still need a parent or guardian to attend the appointment and sign the process.

Do I need a driver education course before I get my learner's permit?

No. You need the course only after you pass the written test and before you take the road test for your full license. If you are under 18, the course is required; if you are 18 or older, it is optional but recommended.

What if my parent cannot come to the DMV with me?

A court-appointed guardian or someone with power of attorney can sign instead. They must bring legal documentation proving their authority. If neither a parent nor a legal guardian can attend, you must wait until you turn 18 to explore without a custodian present.

How do I know which DMV office is closest to me?

The Maryland DMV website has a location finder that shows all offices, hours, and services offered at each one. You can also call 1-410-424-3600 to ask about the nearest office and current wait times before you go.