The Maryland written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices

Maryland's written knowledge test is a computer-based exam administered at the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). You answer 25 multiple-choice questions about Maryland traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You need to score at least 16 correct answers (64%) to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages, and you can request a reader or interpreter if you need one.

The test takes about 15 to 20 minutes to complete once you're seated at the computer terminal. You'll see one question at a time on the screen, and you can review and change your answers before you submit. The MVA scores your test when ready and tells you whether you passed or failed before you leave the testing station.

Key Takeaways

  • You must answer at least 16 of 25 questions correctly to pass the Maryland written test.
  • The test is computer-based and covers Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving rules.
  • You can request the test in a language other than English, or ask for a reader or interpreter.
  • Study materials include the Maryland Driver's Manual and practice tests available free on the MVA website.
  • If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or return another day, but you must pay the test fee again.

What the test covers and how questions are formatted

All 25 questions are multiple choice with four answer options. The test draws from the Maryland Driver's Manual, which is the official study guide. Topics include traffic signs and their meanings, speed limits and when they explore, right-of-way rules at intersections and roundabouts, parking laws, seat belt and child safety seat requirements, impaired driving laws, and what to do in an emergency or if you're pulled over.

Questions are written in plain language and test your understanding of real driving situations. For example, you might see a picture of a road sign and choose what it means, or read a scenario about two cars approaching an intersection and decide who has the right of way. The test does not include trick questions or questions about the history of driving laws.

The MVA publishes a list of sample test questions on its website. Reviewing these samples is one of the most direct ways to know what to expect, because the actual test questions are drawn from the same pool.

How to study and where to find practice materials

The Maryland Driver's Manual is free and available as a PDF read on the MVA website (mva.maryland.gov). You can also request a printed copy at any MVA office. The manual is organized by topic and includes illustrations of road signs. Read through it at least once before your test, and focus on sections that cover signs, right-of-way, and speed limit rules, since these appear frequently on the test.

The MVA website also hosts a free practice test that mimics the format and difficulty of the real exam. Taking the practice test under timed conditions (about 20 minutes) helps you get comfortable with the computer interface and shows you which topics need more study. You can take the practice test as many times as you want.

Some people find it helpful to make flashcards of road signs or to study with a friend who quizzes them. Others use the manual's index to look up specific topics they're unsure about. There is no single "best" way to study, but spending at least a few hours reviewing the manual and taking the practice test once or twice gives most people a solid foundation.

Test day: what to bring and what to expect at the MVA

Bring a valid form of identification — your passport, birth certificate, or state ID card. You'll also need your Social Security number. If you're a minor (under 18), bring a parent or guardian. Arrive at least 15 minutes early, especially if it's your first visit to that MVA office, because you may need to check in and wait for a testing station to open up.

At the MVA, you'll check in at the front desk and tell staff you're there to take the written test. They'll verify your identity, confirm your Social Security number, and collect the test fee (which varies by location but is typically around $7 to $10). You'll then be directed to a computer terminal in the testing area. Staff will give you brief instructions on how to use the computer and answer any questions about the format before the test begins.

Once the test starts, you work at your own pace. You can take as long as you need on each question, and you can go back and change your answers before you submit. When you're done, submit your test and wait for the score. The MVA will print a receipt showing whether you passed or failed. If you passed, you'll receive a temporary permit that day, and your official license will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.

What happens if you fail and how to retake the test

If you score below 16 correct answers, you do not pass. The MVA will tell you which topics you missed most often (for example, "road signs" or "right-of-way"). You can retake the test the same day if you want to, or you can come back another day. Each time you take the test, you pay the test fee again.

After a failed attempt, spend extra time studying the topics where you struggled. Review the relevant sections of the Maryland Driver's Manual and take the practice test again, paying close attention to questions you get wrong. Many people pass on their second or third attempt after focused study on their weak areas.

There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, and there is no waiting period between attempts. However, if you fail multiple times, the MVA may require you to complete a driver improvement course or meet with a licensing examiner before you can test again. This is rare, but it's worth asking staff about if you've failed three or more times.

Language options and accommodations for the test

The test is available in English, Spanish, French, Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese), Vietnamese, Korean, and Tagalog. When you arrive at the MVA, tell staff which language you need before you sit down at the computer. The test interface will display all questions and answer choices in your selected language.

If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a visual impairment, you can request a reader or interpreter. You can also ask for extra time to complete the test if you have a documented disability. Contact your local MVA office at least one week before your test date to arrange these accommodations, or call the MVA's main line to discuss your needs.

After you pass: what comes next

Passing the written test is the first step toward getting your Maryland driver's license. If you're a new driver (under 18 or getting your first license), you'll next need to pass the road skills test, which is the behind-the-wheel driving exam. You'll schedule this separately at an MVA office. You must pass the written test before you can take the road test.

If you're renewing an existing license or upgrading your license class, passing the written test may be all you need. Check your renewal notice or contact the MVA to confirm what else is required for your situation.

Once you pass the written test, the MVA will issue you a temporary permit on the spot. This permit is valid for 60 days and allows you to drive while you wait for your official license to arrive by mail. Your official license will be mailed to the address you provided at the MVA within one to two weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone or notes during the test?

No. You cannot bring any study materials, phones, or notes into the testing area. The MVA will ask you to leave these items at the front desk or in your car. You are only allowed to use the computer terminal provided and the test questions on the screen.

What if I don't pass the first time?

You can retake the test the same day or return another day. You'll pay the test fee each time you take it. Review the topics you missed most and study the Maryland Driver's Manual again before your next attempt. Most people pass within two or three tries.

Is the practice test exactly like the real test?

The practice test has the same format and difficulty level as the real test, and questions come from the same pool. However, you won't see the exact same 25 questions on test day. Using the practice test to study is one of the best ways to prepare.

Do I need to pass the written test before I can schedule the road test?

Yes. You must pass the written test first. Once you pass, you can schedule your road skills test at an MVA office. There is no waiting period between the two tests, so you can schedule the road test for the same day or a future date.

What if I fail the written test multiple times?

After three or more failures, the MVA may require you to complete a driver improvement course or meet with a licensing examiner before you can test again. Contact your local MVA office to ask what options are available if you've failed several times.