What You Need to Do to Get a Maryland Learner's Permit
To get a Maryland learner's permit, you visit your local Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office with required documents, pass a written knowledge test, and pay a fee. The whole process usually takes a few hours. You do not need to pass a driving test yet — the learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car before you take the road test for a full license.
Maryland issues learner's permits to people as young as 15 years and 9 months old. If you are under 18, you will also need to follow Maryland's Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) rules, which restrict when and how you can drive while you hold the permit.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring a valid ID, proof of residency, your Social Security number, and a completed process form to the MVA office.
- The written test covers Maryland traffic laws and road signs; you need to pass it before you can receive the permit.
- The permit fee is $38 for a four-year permit, and you pay at the MVA office when you pass the test.
- Drivers under 18 must follow GDL restrictions, including supervised driving hours and limits on passengers and nighttime driving.
Documents to Bring to the MVA Office
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card as proof of identity. If you do not have one of these, the MVA accepts a combination of documents — the MVA website lists all acceptable combinations.
You also need proof that you live in Maryland. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address works. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and address.
Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. You will also need to complete form DL-001, the process for Driver's License or Permit. You can fill it out at home before you go or at the MVA office.
The Written Knowledge Test
The test has 25 multiple-choice questions about Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 19 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages.
The MVA provides a free study guide called the Maryland Driver's Manual, available on the MVA website and in print at any MVA office. Most people study it for a few days or a week before taking the test. The test takes about 15 to 20 minutes once you sit down.
If you do not pass on your first try, you can retake the test the same day or come back another day. There is no extra fee to retake it.
Paying the Fee and Receiving Your Permit
The learner's permit costs $38 and is valid for four years. You pay this fee at the MVA office after you pass the written test. Payment methods include cash, check, debit card, and credit card.
Once you pay, the MVA will take your photograph and issue your permit on the spot. Your permit is a physical card you can use right away. Keep it with you whenever you drive.
Graduated Driver Licensing Rules for Drivers Under 18
If you are under 18, Maryland's GDL law places restrictions on your driving while you hold the learner's permit. You must have a licensed driver at least 21 years old in the front seat with you at all times. You cannot drive alone.
You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work, school, or a medical appointment. You cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except to call 911 in an emergency.
These rules stay in place until you pass your road test and receive your provisional license. Once you have a provisional license, some restrictions ease, but others remain until you turn 18.
Finding Your Nearest MVA Office and Making an Appointment
Maryland has MVA offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you on the MVA website by entering your zip code. The website shows office hours, which vary by location.
You can walk in without an appointment at most offices, but wait times can be long, especially on weekends and after school hours. The MVA website lets you schedule an appointment online, which usually reduces your wait time. Appointments are free.
Some MVA offices are busier than others. If your local office has a long wait, you can visit a less busy office in a nearby county — you do not have to go to the office in your county.
What Happens After You Get Your Learner's Permit
With your learner's permit, you can practice driving with a licensed adult. Maryland does not require a minimum number of practice hours before you take the road test, but the MVA recommends at least 60 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night.
You can take the road test as soon as you feel ready, but you must hold the learner's permit for at least 60 days before you are allowed to take it. The road test checks your ability to handle a car in real traffic, including parking, turns, and stops.
When you are ready to take the road test, you schedule it at an MVA office. The test fee is separate from the permit fee and costs $7.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a learner's permit if I am homeschooled?
Yes. Maryland does not require you to be enrolled in a public or private school to get a learner's permit. You only need to meet the age requirement (15 years and 9 months) and bring the required documents to the MVA office.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test the same day at no extra cost, 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 or third attempt after studying the Maryland Driver's Manual more carefully.
Do I need to pass a vision test to get the learner's permit?
Yes. The MVA will test your vision at the office. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you do not pass the vision test, you will need to see an eye doctor and bring a vision report to the MVA office.
Can I drive to school with my learner's permit?
No, not alone. You must have a licensed driver at least 21 years old in the front seat with you. You can drive to school if a parent, guardian, or other licensed adult is in the car.
How long is the learner's permit valid?
Your learner's permit is valid for four years from the date it is issued. If you do not pass the road test and get your provisional license within that time, you will need to renew your permit or start over.