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

To get a Maryland learner's permit, you must visit a Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office in person, pass a written knowledge test, and pay a fee. Maryland does not allow online permit applications or testing. You will need to bring specific documents proving your identity and residency, pass a vision screening at the MVA, and then take the written exam on a computer at the office. The entire process usually takes one to two hours on your first visit.

Maryland issues learner's permits to people ages 15 years and 9 months and older. If you are under 18, you will also need a parent or guardian to sign your process in person at the MVA office. There is no separate online step — everything happens during your visit.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit an MVA office in person with required documents; Maryland does not issue permits by mail or online.
  • Bring a government-issued photo ID, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and your birth certificate or passport.
  • You will take a vision test and a 25-question written knowledge test at the MVA office on the same day.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present and sign your process form in person.
  • The permit fee is $35 and is valid for two years from the date of issue.

Documents You Must Bring to the MVA

Maryland requires four categories of documents at your MVA visit. Bring them all in original form — photocopies are not accepted for most documents.

Proof of identity: A government-issued photo ID such as a passport, state ID, or school photo ID issued by a Maryland school. If you do not have a photo ID yet, bring your birth certificate or passport instead.

Proof of residency: A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days showing your current Maryland address. A school report card or school enrollment letter also works. The document must show your full name and address.

Proof of Social Security number: Your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access.

Birth certificate or passport: An original or certified copy. A photocopy will not be accepted. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or a Certificate of Naturalization.

The Written Knowledge Test in Maryland

The Maryland learner's permit test has 25 questions, and you must answer at least 19 correctly to pass (76 percent). The test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, seat belt laws, and safe driving practices. You take the test on a computer at the MVA office, and you receive your score when ready.

Maryland provides a free study guide called the Maryland Driver's Manual, available on the MVA website and in print at any MVA office. The manual covers everything on the test. You can study it before your visit, and many people spend one to two weeks reviewing it. The test is offered in English and Spanish.

If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day at no extra charge, or you can return to the MVA on another day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it.

Vision Screening at the MVA Office

Before you take the written test, an MVA employee will give you a vision screening. You must be able to read letters on a chart from a specific distance. The standard is 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without corrective lenses. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you and wear them during the screening.

If you fail the vision screening, you cannot get your permit that day. You will need to see an eye doctor, get a vision correction certificate, and return to the MVA with that certificate. The eye doctor's office can provide the form you need.

Finding an MVA Office and Making an Appointment

Maryland has MVA offices in most counties. You can visit any office in the state — you do not have to go to the one nearest your home. The MVA website lists all office locations, hours, and phone numbers. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead to ask about wait times can help you choose when to go.

Maryland does not require appointments for learner's permit testing, but you can call ahead to ask about current wait times. Walk-ins are accepted during regular business hours. Offices are typically open Monday through Friday, with some Saturday hours in larger cities. Bring all your documents and plan to spend one to two hours at the office.

The Cost and Timeline for Your Maryland Permit

The learner's permit fee is $35. You pay this fee at the MVA office when you explore. Payment methods include cash, check, debit card, and credit card. The fee covers the permit itself, which is valid for two years from the date of issue.

You receive your permit the same day you pass the test and pay the fee. The MVA prints it on the spot, and you walk out with it. There is no waiting period or mail delivery — the permit is yours when ready after you complete the process.

What Happens After You Get Your Learner's Permit

Once you have your Maryland learner's permit, you can practice driving with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old sitting next to you in the front seat. The adult must hold a valid driver's license. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m.

You must hold your learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the road test for a full driver's license. During those six months, you need to log at least 60 hours of supervised driving, with at least 10 hours at night. Keep a record of your practice drives. When you are ready, you will return to the MVA to schedule and take your road test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I am under 15 years and 9 months old?

No. Maryland law requires you to be at least 15 years and 9 months old. You can visit the MVA as soon as you reach that age. If you are younger, you will need to wait.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can use a passport instead. If you have neither, contact the Maryland Vital Statistics Administration to request a certified copy of your birth certificate before you visit the MVA. This can take several weeks, so plan ahead.

Can my parent sign the process online or by mail?

No. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must be present at the MVA office and sign the process in person. Both of you must visit together.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day at no extra charge, or return another day. There is no limit to retakes. Most people pass on their second attempt after reviewing the Maryland Driver's Manual more carefully.

Do I need to schedule a road test appointment after I get my permit?

Not when ready. You must hold your permit for at least six months and complete 60 hours of supervised driving first. When you are ready, you can call the MVA or visit in person to schedule your road test appointment.