What You Need to Get a Maryland Learner's Permit

A Maryland learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car before you take the road test for a full license. To get one, you must be at least 15 years and 9 months old, pass a written knowledge test on traffic laws and road signs, and pass a vision screening at the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). You do not need to have held a permit to move directly to a license test if you are 18 or older, but most people under 18 start with a permit.

The permit itself is valid for two years from the date you receive it. During that time, you can drive only with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old sitting beside you in the front seat. The adult must hold a valid driver's license — it does not have to be a Maryland license.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old and bring proof of your date of birth, Social Security number, and Maryland residency to the MVA office.
  • The written test covers Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices; you can study using the official Maryland Driver's Manual or take practice tests online.
  • You will pay a fee at the MVA office when you explore — the amount varies depending on the type of permit and how long you want it to be valid.
  • Once you have your permit, you must follow Maryland's Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) rules, which restrict when and where you can drive based on your age.
  • You can take your road test for a full license after holding the permit for a minimum of six months if you are under 18, or when ready if you are 18 or older.

Documents You Must Bring to the MVA

Bring original or certified copies of documents that prove your identity, date of birth, and Maryland residency. The MVA will not accept photocopies or digital images on a phone screen. You will need a birth certificate or passport for identity and date of birth, and a document showing your current Maryland address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works.

You must also provide your Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security card, bring a document that shows your number, such as a tax return or W-2 form. If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your immigration documents and a valid passport or travel document.

If you are under 18, a parent or guardian does not have to be present, but some MVA offices recommend it. Call your local MVA office ahead of time to confirm what documents they will accept, because some offices have slightly different rules.

The Written Knowledge Test

The written test has 25 multiple-choice questions about Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 19 questions correctly to pass. The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, seat belt laws, and what different road signs mean.

You can study using the official Maryland Driver's Manual, which the MVA publishes free online and also gives out at MVA offices. The manual is the source for all test questions. Many people also use online practice tests — search for "Maryland MVA practice test" to find free versions. Taking practice tests multiple times is one of the most effective ways to prepare.

The test is given on a computer at the MVA office. You will have time to answer all 25 questions, and you will know your score before you leave. If you fail, you can take the test again the same day or come back another day — there is no waiting period between attempts.

Vision Screening and Medical Requirements

The MVA will test your vision as part of the permit process. You must have vision of at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without glasses or contact lenses. If you wear corrective lenses, you must wear them during the vision test and during all driving. Your permit will note whether you must wear them.

If you have a medical condition that might affect your ability to drive safely — such as epilepsy, diabetes, or a heart condition — you may need to provide a medical report from your doctor. The MVA will tell you if this is required based on what you report on your process form. Not all conditions disqualify you; the MVA reviews each case individually.

Fees and How to Pay

The fee for a learner's permit varies depending on how long you want it to be valid. A two-year permit costs one amount; a five-year permit costs more. The MVA also charges a separate fee if you need a replacement permit because yours was lost or damaged. Fees change periodically, so check the Maryland MVA website or call your local office for the current amount before you go.

The MVA accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Some offices may have different payment methods, so call ahead if you want to confirm. If you are under 18 and your parent or guardian is paying, they can pay at the office with you.

Maryland's Graduated Driver Licensing Rules for Permit Holders

Once you have your permit, you must follow Maryland's Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system if you are under 18. These rules restrict when and where you can drive to build your skills gradually. During the learner's permit stage, you can drive only between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m., and only with a licensed adult at least 21 years old in the front seat.

You cannot drive on Interstate highways during your first 60 days with a permit. After 60 days, you can drive on Interstates only if the licensed adult is with you. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving — not even hands-free — unless it is a true emergency. Violating these rules can result in fines and suspension of your permit.

These restrictions stay in place until you pass your road test and receive your intermediate license (if you are under 18). The intermediate license has different rules that last until you turn 18 or meet other conditions set by the MVA.

When You Can Take Your Road Test

You must hold your learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the road test if you are under 18. If you are 18 or older when you get your permit, you can take the road test when ready — you do not have to wait. The road test itself is given by an MVA examiner and includes driving on local roads and highways to show you can handle different situations safely.

To schedule your road test, contact the MVA office where you got your permit or use the online scheduling system on the Maryland MVA website. Road test appointments fill up quickly, especially in busy areas, so schedule as soon as you are ready. You will need to bring your permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be driving during the test.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. Homeschooling does not affect your ability to get a learner's permit. You must still meet the age requirement (15 years and 9 months), pass the written test, and pass the vision screening. Bring the same documents to the MVA office as any other applicant.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can take the test again when ready or return another day. There is no waiting period between attempts in Maryland. Most people who study the Driver's Manual and take practice tests pass on their second try if they did not pass the first time.

Do I need a permit if I am 18 or older?

No. If you are 18 or older, you can skip the permit stage and go straight to the road test. However, many people choose to get a permit anyway to practice driving before the test, which is allowed.

Can someone from out of state supervise my driving?

Yes. The licensed adult supervising you does not have to have a Maryland license. They must be at least 21 years old and hold a valid driver's license from any state or country.

What if I move out of Maryland while I have a permit?

Your Maryland permit is no longer valid once you move. You will need to get a learner's permit from your new state. Contact that state's DMV or equivalent agency to find out what documents and tests you need.