What you need to know about Maryland driver's licenses

Maryland issues three main types of driver's licenses: a standard license, a Real ID-compliant license, and a commercial driver's license (CDL). The standard license lets you drive within Maryland and other states, but cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building. A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and works for all of those purposes. A CDL is required only if you operate a commercial vehicle for business.

You can obtain a Maryland license at any Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office. The process takes about 30 minutes to an hour, and you will need to pass a written test, vision screening, and a driving test (unless you are renewing or transferring from another state). The cost varies by license type and how long you want it to last.

Key Takeaways

  • Maryland offers standard licenses, Real ID licenses (marked with a gold star), and commercial driver's licenses, each with different purposes and requirements.
  • You must pass a written test, vision screening, and a driving test at an MVA office to obtain a new license.
  • Real ID licenses require proof of citizenship or legal presence, a Social Security number, and proof of Maryland residency — standard licenses do not.
  • Maryland licenses are valid for five years for drivers under 65 and eight years for drivers 65 and older.
  • You can renew your license online, by mail, or in person, depending on your situation and how much time has passed since your last license.

Standard Maryland driver's license vs. Real ID

A standard Maryland driver's license allows you to drive in Maryland and other states. It does not meet federal identification requirements. You cannot use it to board a domestic flight, enter a federal courthouse, or access a military base. The standard license requires your name, date of birth, address, and Social Security number (or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number if you do not have a Social Security number).

A Real ID-compliant license meets federal standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. It has a gold star in the upper right corner. You can use it for domestic air travel, federal building access, and military base entry. To get a Real ID license, you must show proof of citizenship or legal presence (such as a birth certificate, passport, or visa), proof of your Social Security number, and two forms of proof of Maryland residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement). The Real ID process process is the same as for a standard license, but the document requirements are stricter.

Both licenses cost the same and are valid for the same length of time. The choice depends on whether you need federal identification. If you fly domestically, the Real ID is necessary.

Documents you need to bring to the MVA

For a standard license, bring a valid form of identification (such as a passport, birth certificate, or out-of-state license), proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of Maryland residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

For a Real ID license, bring proof of citizenship or legal presence (birth certificate, passport, visa, or green card), proof of your Social Security number, and two forms of proof of Maryland residency. The residency documents must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and address.

If you are renewing or transferring from another state, you may not need to retake the written and driving tests. Bring your current or expired license and the same residency and identity documents listed above. The MVA will tell you at the time of your appointment whether you need to test.

The written test and vision screening

The Maryland written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 24 out of 30 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages. You can study using the Maryland Driver's Manual, which is free and available on the MVA website.

The vision screening checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. You must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without glasses or contacts. If you wear corrective lenses, you must wear them during the test and your license will be marked with a restriction requiring you to wear them while driving.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. If you fail the vision screening, the MVA will refer you to an eye doctor. You cannot get a license until your vision meets the standard.

The driving test and what happens after you pass

The driving test lasts about 20 minutes and takes place on public roads near the MVA office. An examiner will ask you to perform basic maneuvers such as parking, turning, and stopping. You must follow traffic laws and demonstrate safe driving. You need a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. A licensed adult (at least 21 years old) must be present in the vehicle during the test.

If you pass all three parts of the test, you will receive a temporary license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 30 days while the MVA prints your permanent license. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. If you fail the driving test, you can schedule another appointment, usually within a few days.

Once you have your permanent license, you can drive without restrictions (unless your license has a restriction such as corrective lenses). Your license will expire five years from the date it was issued if you are under 65, or eight years if you are 65 or older.

Renewing your Maryland driver's license

You can renew your Maryland license online, by mail, or in person. Online renewal is the fastest option if you are renewing before your license expires and you have not had any major changes (such as a new address or name). You will need your license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The renewal takes a few minutes and costs less than renewing in person.

Mail renewal is available if your license is not expired and you meet the same conditions as online renewal. You will receive a renewal form in the mail about 60 days before your license expires. Fill it out, include a new photo (or use the photo on file), and mail it back with the fee. Your new license will arrive by mail in two to three weeks.

In-person renewal is required if your license is expired, you have changed your name or address, or you want to upgrade to a Real ID license. You will need to bring the same documents as you did for your original license and retake the vision screening. You may not need to retake the written and driving tests unless your license has been expired for more than a certain period (the MVA will tell you when you call to schedule).

Commercial driver's license (CDL) requirements

A commercial driver's license is required if you operate a vehicle weighing more than 26,000 pounds, transport hazardous materials, or carry more than 15 passengers for business. You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL in Maryland (21 if you want to drive interstate). You must have held a valid standard or Real ID license for at least one year before you can test for a CDL.

The CDL process includes a written test specific to commercial driving, a vision and medical screening, and a driving test in a commercial vehicle. You will also need to pass a background check and provide proof of citizenship or legal presence. The CDL is more expensive than a standard license and requires renewal every four years.

If you are unsure whether you need a CDL for your job, contact the MVA or ask your employer. Driving a commercial vehicle without a CDL is illegal and can result in fines and license suspension.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Maryland driver's license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring a letter from the IRS showing your ITIN. You will still need to show proof of identity and residency. Real ID licenses may have additional requirements depending on your immigration status — contact the MVA to confirm what documents you need.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test as soon as a few days later. There is no limit to how many times you can test, but you will pay the test fee each time. Many people pass on their second or third attempt. The MVA can tell you what you did wrong so you can practice before your next test.

How much does a Maryland driver's license cost?

The cost depends on the type of license and how long you want it to last. A five-year standard or Real ID license costs less than an eight-year license. A CDL costs more. Exact fees change, so check the MVA website or call your local office for current pricing.

Can I renew my license online if I moved to a new address?

No. Online renewal is only available if your address has not changed. If you moved, you must renew in person or by mail and provide proof of your new address. In-person renewal is faster if you need your new license quickly.

What happens if my license is suspended or revoked?

You cannot drive legally until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Suspensions are usually temporary and can result from unpaid traffic tickets, unpaid child support, or medical reasons. Revocations are permanent unless you go through a formal process to restore your driving privileges. Contact the MVA to find out why your license was suspended or revoked and what steps you need to take.