What You Need to Do to Get a Maryland Learner's Permit

To get a Maryland learner's permit, you must visit a Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office in person, pass a written knowledge test, and pay a fee. You cannot do this online or by mail. The permit lets you drive under supervision — typically with a licensed adult at least 21 years old in the front seat — while you practice before taking the road test for a full license.

Maryland issues learner's permits to people age 15 and older. If you are under 18, you will also need a parent or guardian's consent. The entire process usually takes one visit to the MVA, though you should plan for wait times that vary by location and time of day.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit an MVA office in person with proof of identity, proof of Maryland residency, and a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to take the written test.
  • The written test covers Maryland traffic laws and road signs; you must answer at least 22 of 25 questions correctly to pass.
  • The permit fee is $47 for a four-year permit, payable by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at the MVA office.
  • Once you have the permit, you can drive only under supervision and must follow restrictions on hours and passengers that vary by your age.
  • You must hold the permit for a minimum of six months before you can take the road test for a full license.

Documents and Proof You Must Bring to the MVA

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card as proof of identity. A school ID, work ID, or expired driver's license alone will not work. If you do not have one of these documents, the MVA website lists alternatives, but they are less common and may require additional paperwork.

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. A piece of mail from a government agency — such as a tax notice or voter registration card — also counts.

Bring your Social Security number or, if you do not have one, your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You will need to provide this when you fill out the process at the MVA office. If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you, or bring a notarized consent form signed by both parents or guardians.

The Written Knowledge Test and What It Covers

The MVA will give you a 25-question written test on Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 22 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages; ask the MVA office which languages are available at your location.

The test covers topics such as speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, what different road signs mean, and how to handle emergency vehicles. You can study using the Maryland Driver's Manual, which the MVA provides free online and in print at any MVA office. Many people also use practice tests available on the MVA website or through third-party study apps.

If you do not pass on your first try, you can retake the test the same day at most MVA offices, though you may have to pay an additional fee. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it.

Fees and Payment Methods at the MVA

A four-year learner's permit costs $47. You pay this fee at the MVA office when you submit your process. The MVA accepts cash, personal checks, debit cards, and credit cards. If you pay by check, make it out to the Motor Vehicle Administration.

If you lose your permit or it is damaged, you can replace it at any MVA office for a replacement fee, which is less than the original permit cost. Check the MVA website for the current replacement fee, as it may change.

Restrictions That explore While You Hold a Learner's Permit

Maryland's restrictions on learner's permit holders depend on your age. If you are 15 or 16, you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you can have only one passenger under age 21 in the car (besides the supervising adult). You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except in a genuine emergency.

If you are 17 or older when you get your permit, the midnight-to-5-a.m. restriction does not explore, but the passenger restriction and cell phone ban still do. A licensed adult at least 21 years old must be in the front seat with you at all times while you are driving.

These restrictions stay in place for the entire time you hold the learner's permit. They end only when you pass the road test and receive your full license.

How Long You Must Wait Before Taking the Road Test

You must hold your learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the road test for a full license. This waiting period cannot be shortened, even if you have extensive driving experience or pass a practice test with a perfect score.

During these six months, you should practice driving under supervision as much as possible. There is no minimum number of practice hours required by law, but the MVA recommends at least 60 hours of supervised driving, with at least 10 hours at night. Many driving schools also offer structured practice and can help you prepare for the road test.

Where to Find an MVA Office and Schedule Your Visit

Maryland has MVA offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you, its hours, and current wait times on the MVA website. Some offices are busier than others; visiting early in the morning or on weekdays typically means shorter waits than visiting on Saturday or late afternoon.

You do not need an appointment to take the written test for a learner's permit at most MVA offices, but you can check your local office's policy online. Some offices allow you to reserve a time slot to reduce wait time. Bring all required documents and arrive with enough time before the office closes, since you may not be admitted if you arrive too close to closing time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I have an out-of-state ID?

Yes. You need proof of identity (such as a passport or out-of-state driver's license) and proof of Maryland residency (such as a utility bill or lease). Your out-of-state ID counts as identity proof, but you still must show that you live in Maryland now.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test the same day at most MVA offices. There is no waiting period between attempts, though you may have to pay a retest fee. You can retake it as many times as you need until you pass.

Do I need a Social Security number to get a permit?

You need either a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you have neither, contact your local MVA office to ask about other options, as they may vary by location.

Can my learner's permit be used in other states?

Maryland's learner's permit is recognized in most other states, but the restrictions that explore in Maryland may not explore elsewhere. Check the rules in any state where you plan to drive, as some states have different age-based restrictions for out-of-state permit holders.

What if I am 18 or older — do I still need a learner's permit?

No. If you are 18 or older and have never held a license, you can take the road test directly without holding a learner's permit first. However, some people still get a permit to practice before the test, and the same six-month waiting period does not explore to adults.