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

A Maryland driver's permit (also called a learner's permit) is issued by the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) and allows you to practice driving under supervision before you take the road test for a full license. You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old to request one. The process involves passing a written knowledge test at an MVA office, providing proof of identity and residency, and paying a fee. You cannot drive alone with a permit — you must have a licensed driver age 21 or older in the front passenger seat at all times.

Maryland does not require you to complete a driver's education course before getting a permit, though some insurance companies offer discounts if you do. The permit itself is valid for two years from the date of issue, and you can use it to practice for as long as you need before scheduling your road test.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old and pass a written knowledge test at an MVA office to receive a permit.
  • Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a Social Security card or tax document, and proof of Maryland residency such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
  • The permit fee is $35 and the permit is valid for two years; you can renew it once without retesting if it expires before you pass your road test.
  • With a permit, you must always have a licensed driver age 21 or older in the front passenger seat, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m.
  • You can schedule your road test anytime after you receive your permit, but many people wait several months to build driving experience.

Documents You Must Bring to the MVA

Maryland requires specific documents to prove your identity, age, and residency. Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate — a photocopy is not accepted. You also need proof of your Social Security number, which can be a Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return with your full Social Security number visible.

For residency, bring one document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and Maryland address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail all work. If you live with a parent or guardian and are not on the utility bill, bring a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, plus a copy of that bill itself.

You will also need to bring a completed process for a Maryland Driver's License or Permit (Form DL-43). You can read this from the MVA website or fill it out at the office. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number — the MVA will not issue a permit without it.

The Written Knowledge Test

The knowledge test covers Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. It consists of 25 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer at least 19 correctly to pass. The test is administered on a computer at the MVA office, and you receive your score when ready after completing it.

You can study using the Maryland Driver's Manual, which is available free on the MVA website as a PDF or in print at any MVA office. The manual covers everything tested on the exam. Many people also use online practice tests, which are not official but follow the same format and topics. You are allowed to take the test up to three times in a 12-month period if you do not pass on your first attempt.

The test is offered in English and several other languages. If you need the test in a language other than English, call the MVA ahead of time to confirm availability at your chosen office location.

Where to Go and How to Schedule

You can visit any MVA office in Maryland to take the knowledge test and request your permit. The MVA operates full-service offices in most counties, plus satellite locations in some areas. You do not need an appointment for a permit test — you can walk in during business hours. However, wait times vary by location and time of day; visiting early in the morning or on weekdays typically means shorter waits than afternoons or weekends.

Find the MVA office nearest you and its hours on the official MVA website. Some offices close for lunch or have limited hours on certain days. If you live far from an office, plan ahead so you do not make a wasted trip. Bring all required documents in one visit — you cannot complete the process in multiple trips.

The Permit Fee and What Happens Next

The permit fee is $35, payable in cash or by card at the MVA office. Once you pass the knowledge test and submit your documents, you will receive your permit card on the spot. The card shows your name, date of birth, permit number, and expiration date (two years from the issue date). Keep it with you every time you drive.

Your permit becomes valid when ready. You can begin practicing with a licensed driver age 21 or older in the front passenger seat right away. There is no waiting period. If you fail the knowledge test, you can retake it at any MVA office; there is no additional fee for retests within the 12-month window.

If your permit expires before you pass your road test, you can renew it once without retaking the knowledge test. Bring your expired permit and pay the $35 renewal fee. The new permit will be valid for another two years.

Driving Restrictions While You Hold a Permit

Maryland law places specific restrictions on permit holders to reduce crash risk. You must have a licensed driver age 21 or older sitting in the front passenger seat at all times — no exceptions. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot have other permit holders or unlicensed drivers in the car with you.

You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. This curfew applies every day, including weekends and holidays. You cannot use a handheld cell phone while driving, even to make emergency calls — use a hands-free device or pull over safely. Seat belts are required for all passengers, and you cannot tint your windows beyond the legal limit.

Violating these restrictions can result in a ticket and fines. A violation does not automatically cancel your permit, but it becomes part of your driving record and may affect your insurance rates later.

When to Schedule Your Road Test

You can schedule your road test anytime after you receive your permit — there is no mandatory waiting period. However, most people practice for several weeks or months before testing to build confidence and skill. The MVA recommends at least 60 hours of practice driving, with at least 10 hours at night, though this is not a legal requirement.

To schedule a road test, visit the MVA website or call the scheduling line. You will need your permit number and a valid phone number. Road tests are offered at most MVA offices, though some locations have longer wait times than others. Scheduling online is usually faster than calling. The road test fee is $17 and is paid at the time of the test.

Bring your permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be tested in when you arrive for your road test. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. If you fail the road test, you can retake it; there is no waiting period between attempts, but you must pay the $17 fee each time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a permit if I am homeschooled or do not attend a Maryland school?

Yes. School enrollment is not required to get a permit in Maryland. You only need to meet the age requirement (15 years and 9 months), pass the knowledge test, and provide the required identity and residency documents. Homeschooled students follow the same process as any other applicant.

What if I fail the knowledge test on my first try?

You can retake the test at any MVA office without paying another fee. There is no waiting period between attempts. You have up to 12 months from your first test to pass. Many people study the Maryland Driver's Manual more thoroughly after a first failure and pass on the second attempt.

Can I practice driving in another state with a Maryland permit?

Most states recognize Maryland permits for practice driving, but the rules vary. Some states require the supervising driver to be a certain age or relation to you. Before driving out of state, check the requirements of that state's DMV website to avoid a violation.

What happens if my permit expires while I am waiting for a road test appointment?

You can renew your permit once without retaking the knowledge test. Bring your expired permit to any MVA office and pay the $35 renewal fee. The new permit will be valid for two more years. If you let it expire without renewing, you must retake the knowledge test and pay the full $35 fee to get a new permit.

Do I need a parent or guardian to sign anything for my permit?

If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the process form (Form DL-43) in the presence of an MVA employee. Bring a parent or guardian with you to the MVA office, or sign the form at home and have them sign it, then bring the signed form with you. The MVA will not issue a permit to a minor without a parent or guardian signature.