What you need to know before you start

A Maryland learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car before you take your road test. You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old to get one. The permit itself is free, but you will pay a fee when you renew your license later — there is no separate permit fee in Maryland.

The process has three parts: pass a written knowledge test at the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), get your permit, and then practice for at least six months before you can take your road test. You cannot skip the waiting period — Maryland law requires it.

Most people complete the written test in one visit to an MVA office. You will answer 25 questions about road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving. You need 19 correct answers to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day at no extra cost.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old and bring a valid ID and proof of residency to the MVA office.
  • The written test covers 25 questions on road signs and traffic laws, and you need 19 correct to pass.
  • You must wait at least six months after getting your permit before you can take your road test.
  • While you hold a learner's permit, a licensed adult 21 or older must be in the front seat with you whenever you drive.
  • You can study for the written test using the free Maryland Driver's Manual or online practice tests on the MVA website.

Documents you need to bring to the MVA

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. If you do not have one, a valid passport works. You also need a Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number — a tax return, W-2, or 1099 will do.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement with your name and current address. A bank statement dated within the last 60 days also works. The document must show your full name and street address.

If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you. They will need to sign the process form. If both parents are listed on your birth certificate but only one is present, bring a notarized letter from the absent parent giving permission, or a court document showing custody.

How the written test works

The test is on a computer at the MVA office. You will see 25 multiple-choice questions about Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The questions come from the Maryland Driver's Manual, which is free to read from the MVA website or pick up in print at any MVA office.

You have 30 minutes to finish. You need 19 correct answers — that is 76 percent — to pass. The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, what different road signs mean, and how to handle bad weather or mechanical problems.

If you fail, you can take the test again when ready at no cost. Most people who study the manual pass on their first try. The MVA website also has free practice tests that show you the types of questions you will see.

Getting your permit after you pass

Once you pass the written test, the MVA will take your photo and issue your learner's permit on the spot. Your permit is valid for two years. You do not pay anything for the permit itself — the fee comes later when you renew your full license.

Your permit will have your name, photo, date of birth, and a learner's permit designation. Keep it with you every time you drive. You must show it to a police officer if you are stopped.

The permit is not a license — it is permission to practice. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. A licensed adult 21 or older must be in the front seat next to you at all times.

The six-month waiting period and practice requirements

Maryland requires you to hold your learner's permit for at least six months before you can take your road test. You cannot shorten this time, even if you are an excellent driver. This waiting period starts the day you receive your permit.

During these six months, you should practice driving in different conditions — daytime and nighttime, residential streets and highways, light traffic and heavy traffic. There is no minimum number of hours required by law, but experienced drivers recommend at least 50 to 100 hours of practice before your road test.

Keep a record of your practice sessions if you can. Some insurance companies offer discounts if you complete a defensive driving course while you hold your permit. The MVA website lists approved courses in your area.

Rules you must follow while you have a learner's permit

A licensed driver 21 or older must sit in the front seat next to you whenever you drive. This person is responsible for supervising you and can be held liable if you cause an accident. You cannot drive alone under any circumstances.

You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., even with a licensed adult in the car. This restriction is in place for all permit holders under 18.

You must follow all traffic laws exactly as written. Speeding, running red lights, or other violations while you hold a permit can result in your permit being suspended. You must also wear your seatbelt and make sure all passengers wear theirs.

Cell phone use is banned while driving with a learner's permit — no texting, no calls, no handheld devices at all. The only exception is using a phone to call 911 in an emergency.

When you are ready for your road test

After you have held your permit for at least six months, you can schedule your road test through the MVA website or by calling your local MVA office. You will need to bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be driving for the test.

The road test takes about 30 minutes. You will drive on local streets and possibly a highway. The examiner will watch how you handle turns, parking, stopping, and following traffic laws. You must pass the road test to move to the next step — a provisional license if you are under 18, or a full license if you are 18 or older.

If you fail your road test, you can retake it. There is a fee each time you test, so practice thoroughly before you schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test before I turn 15 years and 9 months old?

No. Maryland law requires you to be at least 15 years and 9 months old on the day you take the test. The MVA will check your birth date and will not let you test if you are younger.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day at no cost. You can take it as many times as you need. Most people pass after studying the Maryland Driver's Manual for a few hours.

Do I have to wait exactly six months, or can I test sooner?

You must wait at least six months from the day you receive your permit. You cannot test before that time, no matter how much you have practiced. You can schedule your road test on or after the six-month date.

What happens if I get a traffic ticket while I have a learner's permit?

A ticket can result in your permit being suspended. You should follow all traffic laws carefully. If you are cited, contact the MVA to find out whether your permit status has changed.

Can I drive my parents' car for the road test?

Yes. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will do a quick safety check before the test begins. Make sure the lights, wipers, brakes, and horn all work.