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

To get a Maryland learner's permit, you must visit your local Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, pass a written knowledge test, and pay the fee. You cannot do this online or by mail. The whole process usually takes one to two hours at the MVA, and your permit is valid for two years from the date you receive it.

Maryland issues learner's permits to people aged 15 years and 9 months and older. You do not need to hold a permit before you can take a road test for a full license, but most people do — it gives you time to practice with a licensed driver in the car.

Key Takeaways

  • You must go to an MVA office in person with your birth certificate or passport, proof of Maryland residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
  • The written test covers Maryland traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the free Maryland Driver's Manual or take a practice test on the MVA website before you go.
  • The permit fee is $35 and is valid for two years; you can renew it once without retaking the test if your permit expires before you turn 18.
  • With a learner's permit, you must have a licensed driver aged 21 or older in the front seat at all times, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m.

Documents You Must Bring to the MVA

Bring one document that proves your identity and date of birth. This can be your birth certificate, U.S. passport, passport card, or a state ID card from another state. If you bring a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy — a photocopy will not work.

You also need proof that you live in Maryland. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current Maryland address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A school ID or letter from school does not count as proof of residency.

Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have either, you can still get a permit, but you will need to fill out an additional form at the MVA office. Bring any documents that show you have applied for a Social Security number or that explain why you do not have one.

The Written Knowledge Test

The test has 25 multiple-choice questions about Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 19 questions correctly to pass. The test is given on a computer at the MVA office, and you get your results when ready.

You can study for free using the Maryland Driver's Manual, which is available on the MVA website as a PDF or in print at any MVA office. The manual covers everything on the test. The MVA website also has a practice test that mimics the real test format — taking it before you go to the MVA can show you which topics you need to study more.

You can take the test in English or Spanish. If you need the test in another language, contact your local MVA office ahead of time to arrange it. If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day at no extra cost.

Fees and How Long the Permit Lasts

The learner's permit costs $35. You pay this fee at the MVA office when you explore. The permit is valid for two years from the date you receive it.

If your permit expires before you turn 18 and you have not yet taken your road test for a full license, you can renew it once without retaking the written test. The renewal fee is also $35. After that, you must retake the written test to get a new permit.

If you turn 18 while you hold a learner's permit, the permit stays valid until its expiration date. You can use it to practice driving and to take your road test for a full license.

Restrictions That Come With Your Learner's Permit

With a learner's permit, a licensed driver aged 21 or older must sit in the front seat next to you at all times while you drive. This person is responsible for supervising your driving. They do not have to be a family member, but they must have a valid driver's license.

You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. with a learner's permit, even with a licensed driver in the car. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, including for hands-free calls or texts, unless it is a true emergency.

You can drive on any public road in Maryland, including highways. There are no restrictions on the types of roads you can use or the number of passengers you can carry, as long as the licensed supervisor is in the front seat.

Finding Your Nearest MVA Office and What to Expect

Maryland has 26 MVA offices across the state. You can find the one nearest you and check its hours on the MVA website. Some offices are busier than others; visiting early in the morning or on a weekday usually means a shorter wait.

When you arrive, take a number at the front desk. You will be called when it is your turn. Bring all your documents and be ready to answer questions about your address and driving history. The staff will take your photo for the permit. The whole visit usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

You will receive your permit on the spot if you pass the test. It is a plastic card that looks like a driver's license. Keep it with you whenever you drive.

What Happens After You Get Your Permit

Once you have your learner's permit, you can practice driving with a licensed supervisor. Most people practice for several months before taking the road test for a full license. There is no minimum amount of time you must hold a permit before taking the road test — you can take it as soon as you feel ready.

When you are ready to take the road test, you will schedule an appointment at an MVA office. The road test costs $7 and takes about 20 minutes. You must bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be driving during the test. If you pass, you will receive a full driver's license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. If you do not have a Social Security number or ITIN, bring documents that show you have applied for one or explain why you do not have one. The MVA staff will help you fill out the necessary paperwork. You can still get your permit the same day.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it when ready at the same MVA office, or you can come back another day. There is no extra fee to retake the test. Most people pass on their second try after studying the areas they missed.

Do I need a learner's permit before I can take the road test?

No. You can take the road test without a learner's permit if you are at least 16 years and 6 months old. However, most people get a permit first so they have time to practice with a licensed driver.

Can someone else pick up my permit for me if I cannot go to the MVA?

No. You must be present at the MVA office to take the written test and have your photo taken for the permit. You cannot send someone else to do this for you.

What do I do if I lose my learner's permit?

Go to any MVA office and ask for a replacement. Bring your proof of identity and residency. The replacement fee is $7. You will receive a new permit the same day.