The Maryland learner's permit test has 25 questions, and you need to answer at least 19 correctly to pass

Maryland's written test for a learner's permit (also called a learner's license) contains exactly 25 multiple-choice questions. You must score at least 76 percent — which means getting 19 out of 25 questions right — to pass and move forward with your permit.

The test covers Maryland traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and what to do in emergency situations. The questions come from the Maryland Driver's Manual, which is free and available online through the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). You can take the test at any MVA office across the state.

Key Takeaways

  • Maryland's learner's permit test has 25 questions, and you must answer at least 19 correctly to pass.
  • All questions come directly from the Maryland Driver's Manual, which you can read for free before testing.
  • You can retake the test if you fail, though there may be a waiting period between attempts depending on your MVA office.
  • The test is offered in multiple languages, and you can request a reader or other accommodations when you schedule your appointment.

What topics the 25 questions cover

The test questions focus on four main areas: Maryland traffic laws (including speed limits and right-of-way rules), road signs and their meanings, safe driving practices, and emergency procedures. You will see questions about what to do if your brakes fail, how to handle a skid, and how to respond to emergency vehicles on the road.

Questions also cover permit-specific rules — what a learner's permit holder can and cannot do while driving. For example, you may be asked about the restrictions on when you can drive, whether you need a supervising driver, and what happens if you break permit conditions.

The MVA does not publish a breakdown of exactly how many questions fall into each category, but the Driver's Manual is organized by topic, so studying it section by section will prepare you for all areas the test covers.

How to study for the 25-question test

The Maryland Driver's Manual is your primary study resource. It is available as a free PDF on the MVA website and covers every topic that appears on the test. Read through it carefully, paying special attention to sections on road signs, speed limits, and right-of-way rules, since these appear frequently on the written test.

Many people find it helpful to take practice tests before the real one. While the MVA does not offer an official practice test, several third-party websites and apps offer Maryland-specific practice questions based on the Driver's Manual. These are not official, but they can help you get used to the format and identify weak areas.

Study in short sessions over several days rather than cramming the night before. Focus on understanding the rules, not just memorizing answers — the test questions may be worded differently than examples in the manual, so understanding the concept matters more than memorizing exact phrases.

Retaking the test if you do not pass

If you score below 19 out of 25, you will not pass. You can retake the test, but the waiting period between attempts varies by MVA office. Some offices allow you to retake the test the same day; others require you to wait a day or longer. Call your local MVA office before your first test to ask about their retake policy.

There is usually a fee each time you take the test. The fee is the same whether it is your first attempt or a retake. Keep this in mind if you are planning to test multiple times.

Test accommodations and language options

If you have a disability or learning difference, you can request accommodations when you schedule your test. The MVA offers extended time, a reader, a scribe, or other adjustments depending on your needs. You will need to provide documentation of your disability when you request accommodations.

The test is available in multiple languages beyond English, including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and others. When you schedule your appointment at the MVA, let them know which language you need, and they will make sure that version is available on the day of your test.

What happens after you pass the 25-question test

Passing the written test is the first step toward getting your learner's permit. After you pass, you will take a vision screening and have your photo taken. You will also need to show proof of identity, Social Security number, and Maryland residency.

Once you have your learner's permit, you can begin supervised driving practice. Maryland requires you to hold the permit for a certain amount of time and log a minimum number of supervised driving hours before you can take the road test for your full license. The exact requirements depend on your age.

Where to take the test and how to schedule

You take the written test at any Motor Vehicle Administration office in Maryland. You can find the office nearest you and check their hours on the MVA website. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead to ask about wait times can help you choose the best time to go.

You do not need to schedule an appointment for the written test at most MVA offices — you can walk in during business hours. However, some offices may require appointments, so check your local office's policy before you go. Bring your proof of identity and any other documents the MVA requires for your age group.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone or notes during the test?

No. The test is proctored, meaning an MVA staff member watches while you take it. You cannot use your phone, notes, the Driver's Manual, or any other materials during the test. You must answer the questions from memory based on what you studied.

How long does the 25-question test take?

Most people finish the test in 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how quickly they read and think through each question. You are not timed, so you can take as long as you need to answer all 25 questions.

What if I fail the test twice?

You can retake the test as many times as needed. There is no limit on the number of attempts. Each retake has a fee, so budget for that if you need multiple tries. Keep studying the Driver's Manual between attempts and focus on the areas where you struggled.

Is the Maryland test harder than other states' tests?

Maryland's test is similar in difficulty to most states' written permit tests. The 25 questions cover standard traffic laws and road signs that are consistent across the country. If you study the Driver's Manual thoroughly, you should be prepared.