What You Need to Know About Maryland Driver's Licenses
Maryland issues several types of driver's licenses depending on your age, immigration status, and what you plan to drive. A standard Class D license lets you drive a regular passenger car. A Class C license covers commercial vehicles up to a certain weight. Maryland also offers the REAL ID-compliant driver's license, which you'll need to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings after May 7, 2025. If you're under 18, you'll go through Maryland's Graduated Licensing System, which starts with a permit and moves through restricted and full licenses as you gain experience.
The type of license you get depends on what documents you bring to the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), your age, and whether you want REAL ID compliance. Maryland accepts documents from people without a Social Security number, which means you can get a license even if you're not a U.S. citizen or don't have work authorization — but the license won't be REAL ID-compliant.
Key Takeaways
- Maryland's standard Class D license is for regular passenger vehicles; Class C is for commercial vehicles and requires additional testing and medical certification.
- REAL ID-compliant licenses require proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status and a Social Security number, and are required for domestic air travel after May 7, 2025.
- Drivers under 18 must complete the Graduated Licensing System, starting with a permit, then a restricted license, then a full license — each stage has age and experience requirements.
- You can get a non-REAL ID license with a passport from any country, an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), and proof of Maryland residency, even without U.S. citizenship.
- The MVA requires an appointment for most transactions; you can book online at mva.maryland.gov or call 410-768-7000.
Standard Class D License vs. REAL ID-Compliant License
Maryland's standard Class D license works for driving a regular car within the state and across state lines. It does not meet federal REAL ID requirements. You can get a standard Class D license with a foreign passport, an ITIN, and proof of Maryland residency — you do not need a Social Security number or proof of citizenship.
A REAL ID-compliant license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal standards for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. To get one, you must show proof of citizenship (a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate) or proof of lawful permanent resident status (a green card), plus a Social Security number. You also need proof of Maryland residency and your current license or ID. The REAL ID license costs the same as a standard license and lasts the same amount of time.
If you have a standard license now and want to upgrade to REAL ID, you can do so at any MVA office without retaking the written or driving test. Bring your citizenship or green card, Social Security card, and current license.
Class C Commercial License Requirements
A Class C license is required if you drive a vehicle weighing more than 26,001 pounds or carry hazardous materials. To get one, you must first hold a valid Class D license. You'll need to pass a written test specific to commercial driving, a pre-trip vehicle inspection test, and a road test in a commercial vehicle. Maryland also requires a medical examination and certification from a licensed physician or nurse practitioner — the form is available on the MVA website.
The medical exam checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely. Some medical conditions may disqualify you or require restrictions on your license. You must renew your medical certification every two years. The Class C license itself is valid for five years, the same as a Class D.
Graduated Licensing for Drivers Under 18
Maryland's Graduated Licensing System is designed to give young drivers experience in lower-risk situations before they drive alone. The system has three stages: Learner's Permit, Restricted License, and Full License.
Learner's Permit: You can get a permit at age 15 years and 9 months. You must pass a vision test and a written knowledge test. With a permit, you can only drive when a licensed adult 21 or older is in the front passenger seat. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. You must hold the permit for at least six months before moving to the next stage.
Restricted License: At age 16 years and 3 months (and after holding the permit for six months), you can take the road test and get a restricted license. With a restricted license, you can drive alone during the day, but you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free. You must hold the restricted license for at least six months.
Full License: At age 17 (and after holding the restricted license for six months), you can get a full Class D license with no driving restrictions. You still cannot use a handheld cell phone while driving — that rule applies to all drivers in Maryland.
Documents You Need to Bring to the MVA
The documents required depend on whether you want a standard license or a REAL ID-compliant license. For both types, you need proof of identity, proof of Social Security number (if you have one), and proof of Maryland residency.
| Document Type | Standard License | REAL ID License |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | Foreign passport, U.S. passport, birth certificate, or current Maryland ID | U.S. passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate |
| Proof of Social Security Number | Social Security card, W-2, or tax return (optional) | Social Security card (required) |
| Proof of Residency | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 60 days | Same as standard license |
| Proof of Citizenship/Status | Not required | Birth certificate, passport, naturalization certificate, or green card |
If you're renewing or replacing a license, bring your current license or ID. If you're a minor, a parent or guardian must accompany you and bring their ID. If you're explore for a Class C commercial license, also bring your medical certification form completed by a physician or nurse practitioner.
How to Schedule an Appointment and What to Expect
The Maryland MVA requires an appointment for most services, including getting a new license, renewing, or replacing a license. You can book an appointment online at mva.maryland.gov or by calling 410-768-7000. Walk-ins are not accepted at most locations. Appointments typically fill up weeks in advance, so plan ahead.
When you arrive at the MVA office, bring all required documents and your appointment confirmation. You'll check in at the counter, and an MVA employee will review your documents. If everything is in order, you'll take a vision test, have your photo taken, and pay the fee. For a new license, you'll also take a written test and a road test. The written test covers Maryland traffic laws and safe driving practices. The road test takes about 20 minutes and includes driving on local roads and highways.
Fees vary depending on the type of license and how long it's valid. A standard Class D license valid for eight years costs around $100, but fees change and vary by transaction type. Check the MVA website for current fees before your appointment.
Non-Citizen and ITIN Holder Options
Maryland allows people without U.S. citizenship to get a standard (non-REAL ID) driver's license. You need a valid passport from any country, an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), and proof of Maryland residency. An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service to people who file taxes but don't have a Social Security number.
To get an ITIN, you file Form W-7 with the IRS. You can file by mail or through an IRS-authorized representative. The process takes several weeks. Once you have an ITIN, you can use it at the MVA in place of a Social Security number to get a standard license.
A standard license issued to a non-citizen is valid for the same length of time as a citizen's license — typically eight years. It works for driving within Maryland and other states, but it will not meet REAL ID requirements for federal buildings or domestic flights. If your immigration status changes and you become a lawful permanent resident or citizen, you can upgrade to a REAL ID-compliant license by bringing your green card or citizenship documents to the MVA.
License Renewal and Replacement
Maryland driver's licenses are valid for eight years from the date of issue. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. You can renew by mail, online, or in person at an MVA office. If you renew by mail or online, you do not need to retake the written or road test — you only need to update your photo and information if anything has changed.
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at any MVA office. Bring your proof of identity and proof of residency. A replacement license costs less than a new license and is valid for the remainder of your original license's expiration date.
If your license expires while you're out of state or unable to renew, you can renew it for up to two years after expiration without penalty. However, you cannot legally drive with an expired license, so renew before it expires.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Maryland license if I don't have a Social Security number?
Yes. You can get a standard (non-REAL ID) license with a foreign passport, an ITIN, and proof of Maryland residency. You cannot get a REAL ID-compliant license without a Social Security number, but the standard license works for driving within Maryland and other states.
What happens if I fail the road test?
You can retake the road test. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you must pay the test fee each time. Most MVA offices allow you to schedule another test within a few days. You can practice with your permit or restricted license before retaking the test.
Do I need a REAL ID license to drive a car?
No. A standard Maryland driver's license is legal for driving. You only need a REAL ID license if you plan to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building after May 7, 2025. For driving, a standard license is sufficient.
Can I renew my license online?
Yes, if your license is not expired and you have not had any violations or suspensions. You can renew online at mva.maryland.gov. The online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs less than renewing in person. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.
What is the minimum age to get a driver's license in Maryland?
You must be at least 16 years and 3 months old to get a restricted license after passing the road test. You can get a learner's permit at 15 years and 9 months. You must be 17 to get a full, unrestricted license.