What you need to get a Maryland driver's license

Maryland issues a standard driver's license through the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). To get one, you need to pass a written test on traffic laws, a vision screening, and a road test. You'll also need to bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Maryland residency — all originals or certified copies, not photocopies.

The process takes multiple visits: one to explore and take the written test, then a separate appointment for the road test once you pass. You can't take the road test the same day you explore. Most people schedule their road test weeks in advance, so plan accordingly if you need a license by a specific date.

Maryland charges a fee for the license itself, and the road test has a separate fee. Both are non-refundable even if you don't pass the road test on your first try. You'll pay again each time you retake it.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring original documents proving identity, Social Security number, and Maryland residency — photocopies are not accepted.
  • The written test and road test are scheduled on different days, so the entire process typically takes several weeks.
  • You can take the written test at any MVA office, but road tests are scheduled at specific testing centers and fill up quickly.
  • If you fail the road test, you pay the full fee again to retake it; there is no discount for retests.
  • Maryland offers a standard license, a REAL ID-compliant license, and a non-compliant license — choose based on whether you need it for federal purposes like flying.

Documents you must bring to the MVA

Maryland requires one document from each of three categories: identity, Social Security number, and residency. You cannot use the same document twice. For example, a Maryland ID card counts as identity but not residency.

For identity, bring a passport, military ID, birth certificate, or Maryland ID card. For Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return. For residency, bring a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. All documents must be originals or certified copies — the MVA will not accept photocopies or pictures on your phone.

If you're under 18, you'll also need a parent or guardian to sign your process in person. If you're 18 or older, you sign it yourself. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number; the MVA will not issue a license without it.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 25 multiple-choice questions about Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 19 correctly to pass. The test is offered in multiple languages, including Spanish, Vietnamese, and others — ask at the MVA office which languages are available at your location.

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 the MVA's practice test, which mimics the real test format. You're allowed to take the written test three times in one year; if you fail all three, you must wait a year before trying again.

The written test costs a fee, which you pay when you take it. If you pass, that fee is applied toward your license fee. If you fail, you pay the test fee again when you retake it.

The road test: what to expect and how to schedule

The road test lasts about 20 minutes. The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks: starting the car, backing up, turning, parking, and stopping. You must demonstrate that you can control the vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. The examiner will also check that your car is in safe working condition — working brakes, lights, wipers, and horn.

You schedule the road test at an MVA office after you pass the written test. Road test appointments fill up quickly, especially in busy areas like Baltimore and Northern Virginia suburbs. You may have to wait several weeks for an opening. You can schedule online through the MVA website or by phone.

Bring your written test passing receipt, your Social Security card or number, and proof of insurance for the vehicle you'll be driving. Maryland requires all drivers to carry liability insurance. If you don't have insurance, you cannot take the road test. The examiner will verify your insurance before you begin.

REAL ID versus standard Maryland license

Maryland offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a REAL ID-compliant license. The difference matters only if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building. Starting May 2025, you'll need a REAL ID license or a passport to board a domestic flight; a standard Maryland license will no longer be accepted at airport security.

Both licenses cost the same and go through the same testing process. The only difference is the documents you bring. For a REAL ID license, you must bring proof of your Social Security number and proof of your current address — the same residency document required for any license. You also need an original birth certificate or passport.

If you don't fly and don't enter federal buildings, a standard license works fine. If you're unsure, get the REAL ID version; it's the same price and gives you more options. You can upgrade a standard license to REAL ID later by visiting an MVA office with your birth certificate.

License renewal and expiration

A Maryland driver's license is valid for five years from the date of issue. When it expires, you can renew it in person at an MVA office or online through the MVA website if you meet certain conditions — your license must not be suspended, you must not have any unpaid violations, and you must not have changed your name or address.

If you renew online, you don't take another road test or written test. You pay the renewal fee, and a new license is mailed to you. If you renew in person, you'll have your photo taken again but won't need to test unless the MVA has reason to require it.

Renewal takes about two weeks by mail. If you need your license sooner, you can request a temporary license at the MVA office, which is valid for 30 days while you wait for the permanent one.

What to do if you fail the road test

If you don't pass the road test, you receive a notice explaining what you did wrong. Common reasons for failing include hitting a curb while parking, failing to signal, running a stop sign, or hitting the examiner's brake pedal (which means the examiner had to take control because you were unsafe).

You can retake the road test as soon as you schedule another appointment. There's no waiting period between attempts. However, you pay the full road test fee each time. Some people take a few lessons with a professional driving instructor between attempts; this costs money but can improve your chances of passing.

You have one year from the date you pass your written test to pass your road test. If you don't pass within that year, you'll need to retake the written test as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my road test in a car I don't own?

Yes, as long as the car is insured and registered. The car must have working brakes, lights, wipers, horn, and mirrors. The examiner will check these before the test begins. You can borrow a family member's car or use a rental, but make sure the insurance is active and the registration is current.

What happens if I move to Maryland from another state?

You must get a Maryland license within 60 days of establishing residency. You'll need to pass the written test and road test just like a first-time driver. However, if you have a valid out-of-state license, you don't need to take the vision screening. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number to the MVA.

Can I get a license if I have an unpaid traffic ticket?

You can take the written test and road test, but the MVA won't issue your license until you pay the ticket or resolve it with the court. Check with the Maryland District Court or the MVA to find out what you owe and how to pay it.

How much does a Maryland driver's license cost?

The fee varies depending on the type of license and how long it's valid for. A standard five-year license costs less than a REAL ID license. The written test and road test each have separate fees. Contact your local MVA office or check the MVA website for current prices, as fees change periodically.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

Maryland requires a Social Security number to issue a driver's license. If you don't have one, you'll need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a license. Bring your process receipt to the MVA if you're in the process of getting a number.