The cost of Maryland's learner's permit test

Maryland charges $7 for the learner's permit knowledge test. This is the written exam you take at the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) to show you understand road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. The fee covers the test itself — not your permit card, which costs an additional $59 when you pass.

You pay the $7 test fee when you arrive at the MVA office to take the exam. You cannot pay online or in advance. Bring cash, a debit card, or a credit card, as most MVA locations accept all three payment methods.

The total cost to get your learner's permit in Maryland is $66 ($7 for the test plus $59 for the permit card). Some people take the test more than once if they do not pass on their first try, which means paying the $7 fee again for each attempt.

Key Takeaways

  • The learner's permit knowledge test costs $7 when you take it at an MVA office.
  • Your permit card itself costs $59 after you pass the test, for a total of $66.
  • You pay the test fee in person at the MVA using cash, debit, or credit.
  • If you do not pass the first time, you pay $7 again to retake the test.

What the $7 test fee includes

The $7 covers one attempt at the written knowledge test. The test has 25 multiple-choice questions about Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You need to answer at least 19 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages at most MVA locations.

The fee does not include study materials or practice tests. Maryland's MVA website offers a free online manual and sample test questions that you can review before you go in. Many people use these free resources to prepare so they pass on the first try and avoid paying the $7 fee twice.

When you pay and how to prepare

You bring payment to the MVA office on the day you take the test. Arrive early — most offices open at 8:30 a.m. and get busy by mid-morning. You will need to bring your Social Security number, proof of your date of birth (like a birth certificate), and proof of your Maryland address (like a utility bill or lease). Check the MVA website for the full list of acceptable documents before you go.

Preparing ahead of time is free. read the Maryland Driver's Manual from the MVA website and read through the sections on traffic signs, right-of-way rules, and speed limits. Take the practice test on the MVA site to see which topics you need to study more. Many people spend a few hours studying and pass on the first try, which saves them the cost of a second $7 fee.

Retaking the test if you do not pass

If you do not pass the first time, you can retake the test as soon as the next day. Each time you retake it, you pay another $7 fee. There is no limit to how many times you can take the test, but each attempt costs money and takes time.

After you fail, the MVA will tell you which topics you missed most. Use that feedback to study the weak areas before your next attempt. The free practice test on the MVA website lets you focus on specific topics like parking rules or pedestrian safety.

Getting your permit card after you pass

Once you pass the test, you pay the $59 permit card fee. The MVA issues your learner's permit on the spot — you do not have to come back another day. Your permit is valid for two years. During that time, you can practice driving with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old and sitting in the front seat next to you.

Keep your permit card with you whenever you drive. You will need to show it to a police officer if you are stopped, and you will need it when you go back to the MVA to take your road test for your full license.

Other costs to know about

The $7 test fee and $59 permit card are the only MVA fees for getting a learner's permit. However, you may have other costs outside the MVA. Some people take a driver's education course, which can cost $200 to $400 depending on the school. This is optional — you do not have to take a course to get your permit.

You will also need to pay for your road test when you are ready to get your full license. That test costs $7 as well. Some people also pay for professional driving lessons to prepare for the road test, which is another optional cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay the $7 test fee online before I go to the MVA?

No. You must pay the $7 fee in person at the MVA office when you take the test. You cannot pay in advance or online. Bring cash, a debit card, or a credit card to cover the fee.

What happens if I fail the test — do I get my $7 back?

No. The $7 fee is non-refundable whether you pass or fail. If you do not pass, you pay another $7 to retake the test.

Is the $7 test fee the same at every MVA office in Maryland?

Yes. The $7 fee is set by the state and is the same at all MVA locations across Maryland, whether you test in Baltimore, Annapolis, or a rural county office.

Do I have to pay the full $66 at once, or can I pay the $7 and $59 separately?

You pay them separately. You pay the $7 test fee when you take the test. If you pass, you pay the $59 permit card fee right after, before you leave the MVA office. If you fail the test, you only pay $7 that day.

Are there any discounts on the learner's permit test fee?

No. The $7 fee applies to everyone. There are no discounts based on age, income, or any other factor. The fee is the same for all test-takers in Maryland.