What you need to do to get a Maryland learner's permit

To get a Maryland learner's permit, you must visit the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. You'll pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs, then pay a fee. The whole process takes a few hours. Once you have the permit, you can drive with a licensed adult 25 or older in the front seat.

Maryland issues learner's permits to people as young as 15 years and 9 months old. The permit is valid for two years, which gives you time to practice before taking the road test for your full license. You cannot drive alone, and there are restrictions on when and where you can drive depending on your age.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit an MVA office in person with a valid ID, proof you live in Maryland, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
  • The written test covers Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving rules — you need to pass with a score of at least 70 percent.
  • The learner's permit costs money and is valid for two years from the date you receive it.
  • With a learner's permit, you can only drive with a licensed adult 25 or older sitting next to you in the front seat.
  • You must hold the learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the road test for your full license.

Documents you need to bring to the MVA

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, or a valid passport. If you don't have either, you can bring a combination of other documents — the MVA website lists what counts. You also need proof that you live in Maryland: a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and current address will work.

You'll need your Social Security number. If you don't have one, bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring the original documents, not photocopies, unless the MVA specifically says a copy is acceptable. If you're under 18, a parent or guardian does not need to be present, but you may want to bring them anyway.

The written test: what to expect

The written test has 25 questions about Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 18 questions correctly to pass — that's a score of 72 percent. The test covers things like speed limits, right-of-way rules, what different road signs mean, and how to handle emergencies on the road.

You can study using the Maryland Driver's Manual, which the MVA provides free online and in print at any MVA office. Many people also use practice tests available on the MVA website. You get one chance to pass on the day you visit. If you don't pass, you can return and take the test again, but you'll have to pay the fee again.

The test is given on a computer at the MVA office. You don't need to bring anything except your documents. The test takes about 10 to 15 minutes once you start.

The cost and how long the permit lasts

The fee for a learner's permit in Maryland varies depending on how long you want it to be valid. A two-year permit costs one amount; a four-year permit costs more. Check the MVA website or call your local office for the exact current fee, as prices change.

Your learner's permit is valid for two years from the date you receive it. During that time, you can practice driving with a licensed adult. You must hold the permit for at least six months before you're allowed to take the road test for your full license. If your permit expires before you pass the road test, you'll need to renew it.

Restrictions while you have a learner's permit

With a learner's permit, you cannot drive alone. A licensed driver who is at least 25 years old must be sitting in the front seat next to you at all times. That person must have a valid driver's license from any state.

If you're under 18, there are additional rules. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot use a cell phone while driving — not even hands-free. You also cannot drive with passengers under 21 unless a licensed adult 25 or older is in the car with you. These rules are part of Maryland's Graduated Licensing System, which is designed to give new drivers time to build skills in lower-risk situations.

Where to go: finding your local MVA office

Maryland has MVA offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you on the MVA website by entering your zip code. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead to ask about wait times can save you a trip. A few offices offer online scheduling, which lets you reserve a time slot instead of waiting in line.

Bring all your documents and plan to spend two to three hours at the office, even if you have a scheduled appointment. The written test itself is quick, but check-in and processing take time. Go early in the day if you can — offices tend to be less crowded in the morning.

What happens after you pass the written test

Once you pass the written test, the MVA will issue your learner's permit on the spot. You'll receive a physical card that you must carry with you whenever you drive. The permit has your photo, name, address, and the expiration date.

Now you can start practicing. You'll need to log at least 60 hours of supervised driving — 10 of those at night — before you take the road test. Keep a log of your practice sessions if you want to track your progress, though Maryland doesn't require you to submit one. After six months with the permit, you can schedule your road test through the MVA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I'm homeschooled?

Yes. Maryland does not require you to be enrolled in a public or private school to get a learner's permit. You only need to meet the age requirement (15 years and 9 months) and bring the required documents to the MVA.

What if I fail the written test?

You can take the test again the same day or come back another day. Each time you take the test, you pay the fee again. There's no limit to how many times you can retake it, so keep studying the Maryland Driver's Manual and try again.

Do I need a Social Security number to get a learner's permit?

You need either a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you don't have a Social Security number, bring your ITIN instead. Both are accepted by the MVA.

Can I drive my parents' car with a learner's permit?

Yes, as long as a licensed driver 25 or older is in the front seat with you. The car doesn't have to be registered in your name. Make sure your parents' insurance covers you as a driver, because some policies have restrictions on permit holders.

How long do I have to wait before taking the road test?

You must hold your learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the road test. You also need to complete at least 60 hours of supervised driving, with 10 of those hours at night. Once both requirements are met, you can schedule your road test through the MVA.