What You Need to Get a Maryland Learner's Permit

To get a Maryland learner's permit, you must be at least 15 years and 9 months old, pass a written knowledge test, and bring specific documents to the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). You do not need to have a driver yet — the permit itself is what lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car.

Maryland issues the learner's permit as a temporary document valid for two years. During this time, you can drive only when a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old is sitting next to you in the front seat. The permit costs $40 and is separate from a full driver's license.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old and pass the written knowledge test to receive a learner's permit in Maryland.
  • Bring your birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Maryland residency (such as a utility bill or lease) to the MVA office.
  • The knowledge test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices; you can study using the free Maryland Driver's Manual available on the MVA website.
  • Your learner's permit is valid for two years and requires a licensed adult at least 21 years old to be in the front seat whenever you drive.

Documents to Bring to the MVA

The MVA requires proof of identity, age, and residency. Bring your original birth certificate, passport, or state ID card. If you do not have one of these, you can bring a combination of documents — ask the MVA which ones they will accept before you go.

You also need proof of your Social Security number. A Social Security card works, but so does a W-2 form, tax return, or a letter from Social Security. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or school enrollment letter that shows your name and a Maryland address.

If you are under 18, at least one parent or guardian must come with you. They will need to sign the process and bring their own ID. Bring the documents in person — you cannot mail them or submit them online.

How to Study for the Knowledge Test

The written test has 25 multiple-choice questions covering road signs, traffic laws, right-of-way rules, and safe driving. You need to answer at least 19 questions correctly to pass. The test takes about 15 minutes once you sit down.

The free Maryland Driver's Manual is the official study guide and covers everything on the test. You can read it as a PDF from the MVA website or pick up a printed copy at any MVA office. Many people also study using online practice tests, which let you take sample questions and see which topics need more work.

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.

Taking the Test at the MVA Office

Go to your nearest MVA office during business hours. You do not need an appointment for a learner's permit test, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Early morning or mid-week visits tend to be faster than afternoons or Saturdays.

Bring all your documents and your parent or guardian if you are under 18. A staff member will check your documents, take your photo for the permit, and then send you to a computer station to take the written test. You will see your score when ready after you finish.

If you pass, you pay the $40 fee and receive your learner's permit on the spot. If you do not pass, you can retake the test the same day or come back another time at no extra charge.

Restrictions That Come With Your Learner's Permit

Maryland's learner's permit comes with rules you must follow. A licensed driver at least 21 years old must be in the front seat next to you at all times. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot have other teen passengers in the car.

You also cannot use a cell phone while driving — not even hands-free — unless it is an emergency. You must wear a seatbelt, obey all traffic laws, and follow the speed limit. Violating these rules can result in fines and may delay when you can take the road test for your full license.

Your permit is valid for two years. If it expires before you pass your road test, you will need to renew it at an MVA office.

What Happens After You Pass the Knowledge Test

Once you have your learner's permit, you can start practicing with a licensed adult. Most people practice for several months before taking the road test for a full driver's license. There is no minimum practice time required by law, but the more you drive, the more prepared you will be.

When you feel ready, you can schedule a road test at an MVA office. The road test checks your ability to handle a car in real traffic, follow instructions, and drive safely. You must bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that is registered and inspected.

If you pass the road test, you receive a Class D driver's license. If you do not pass, you can retake it after waiting a set number of days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my learner's permit if I have a suspended license or a DUI conviction?

No. If your license is suspended or revoked, or if you have a DUI or reckless driving conviction, you cannot get a learner's permit. You must resolve the suspension or conviction first by completing any required programs or waiting out the suspension period.

What if I fail the knowledge test?

You can retake it the same day or come back another time. There is no charge for retakes. Most people pass on the second or third attempt after studying the areas where they struggled.

Do I need insurance to get a learner's permit?

No, you do not need insurance to get the permit itself. However, the car you practice in must be insured, and the insurance company must know that a learner is driving it. Talk to your parent's or guardian's insurance agent before you start practicing.

Can I drive on the highway with my learner's permit?

Yes, you can drive on highways with your learner's permit as long as a licensed adult at least 21 years old is in the front seat. However, some driving schools recommend waiting until you have more experience before practicing on high-speed roads.

What if I move out of Maryland before I get my license?

Your Maryland learner's permit is valid only in Maryland. If you move to another state, you will need to get that state's learner's permit and follow its rules. Contact your new state's DMV or equivalent agency for their requirements.