Maryland learner's permit requirements at a glance

To get a Maryland learner's permit, you must be at least 15 years and 9 months old, pass a written knowledge test on road rules and signs, and provide proof of identity and residency. You'll also need a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The test covers Maryland traffic laws, safe driving practices, and road sign recognition. You take the test at your local Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office, and if you pass, you receive your permit the same day.

A learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old and seated beside you in the front seat. It does not let you drive alone, and it comes with restrictions on when and where you can drive. You'll hold the permit for at least 6 months before you can take the road test for a full license.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old and pass a written knowledge test to receive a learner's permit in Maryland.
  • Bring a valid form of identity, proof of Maryland residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN to the MVA office.
  • The knowledge test covers Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving rules; you can study using the official Maryland Driver's Manual.
  • Once you pass the test, you receive your permit when ready and can begin supervised driving with a licensed adult at least 21 years old.
  • You must hold your learner's permit for a minimum of 6 months before you are allowed to take the road test for a full driver's license.

Documents you need to bring to the MVA

The MVA requires specific documents to issue a learner's permit. Bring one form of valid photo identification—a passport, a school ID with your photo and date of birth, or a state ID card. If you do not have photo ID, bring two documents that show your name and date of birth, such as a birth certificate and a school report card.

You also need proof that you live in Maryland. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you live with a parent or guardian, bring their ID and a notarized letter stating that you live at their address, along with one of the residency documents listed above.

Bring your Social Security number or ITIN. If you do not have either, you can still get a learner's permit, but you will need to fill out an additional form at the MVA office. Bring any paperwork related to your process for an ITIN if you have one in progress.

The written knowledge test and how to prepare

The Maryland knowledge test has 25 multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 19 correctly to pass. The test covers Maryland traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, parking rules, and safe driving practices. You have 30 minutes to complete it.

Study using the official Maryland Driver's Manual, which is free and available online at the MVA website or in print at any MVA office. The manual contains all the information tested on the exam. Many people also use online practice tests, which let you take sample exams under timed conditions. Practice tests help you identify weak areas before you take the real test at the MVA.

You can retake the test if you do not pass on your first attempt. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you will pay the test fee again. Most people pass after one or two attempts if they study the manual thoroughly.

Age requirements and the 6-month holding period

You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old to take the knowledge test and receive a learner's permit. This age requirement exists in Maryland because younger drivers benefit from a longer supervised practice period before driving alone.

Once you receive your permit, you must hold it for a minimum of 6 months before you can take the road test for a full license. During this time, you practice driving with a licensed adult. The 6-month period begins on the date you pass the knowledge test, not on the date you take it. If you pass the test on January 15, you can take the road test on July 15 at the earliest.

If you turn 18 before the 6 months are up, you can still take the road test once the 6-month period ends. You do not need to wait until you turn 18 to take the test.

Restrictions that explore while you hold a learner's permit

Maryland's learner's permit comes with rules that limit when and how you can drive. You must have a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old in the front seat beside you at all times. This person is responsible for supervising your driving. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot have other learner's permit holders or unlicensed drivers in the car with you.

You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. while holding a learner's permit. This restriction applies even if you have an adult in the car. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even for hands-free calls, with limited exceptions for emergencies. These rules are designed to reduce the risk of crashes during the learning phase.

Violating these restrictions can result in a citation and fines. If you accumulate violations, the MVA may suspend your permit or delay your road test. Your supervising adult can also be cited if they allow you to break these rules.

Fees and what to expect at the MVA office

The fee for a learner's permit in Maryland is $47. This fee covers the knowledge test and the permit itself. If you fail the test and retake it, you pay the fee again. Payment methods accepted at MVA offices include cash, debit card, and credit card.

When you arrive at the MVA office, bring all required documents and expect to wait. Wait times vary by location and time of day. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays typically means shorter waits than visiting in the afternoon or on weekends. You can check wait times online at the MVA website before you go.

The MVA will take your photo for your permit. Wear something you are comfortable being photographed in. Your permit will be valid for 2 years from the date it is issued. If you do not take the road test within 2 years, your permit expires and you must retake the knowledge test to get a new one.

What happens after you pass the knowledge test

Once you pass the knowledge test, you receive your learner's permit when ready. The permit is a physical card with your photo, name, date of birth, and permit number. You must carry it with you whenever you drive. If you are stopped by police, you must show your permit along with proof that your supervising adult has a valid license.

After you receive your permit, you can begin supervised driving practice. Many people practice for several months before taking the road test. There is no minimum number of hours required in Maryland, but the MVA recommends at least 60 hours of supervised driving, with at least 10 hours at night. Keeping a log of your practice sessions can help you track your progress and identify areas where you need more practice.

When you feel ready, you can schedule your road test through the MVA. The road test typically takes 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic driving skills, parking, and your ability to follow traffic laws. You must pass the road test to receive your full driver's license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. If you do not have a Social Security number or ITIN, you can still get a learner's permit. You will need to complete additional forms at the MVA office. Bring any documentation you have related to your immigration status or your process for an ITIN. The MVA staff can tell you what other documents you may need.

What if I fail the knowledge test?

You can retake the test the same day or any day after. There is no waiting period. You will pay the $47 fee again each time you retake the test. Most people pass on their second attempt if they study the Maryland Driver's Manual between attempts.

Do I have to take the road test within a certain time after getting my permit?

Your learner's permit is valid for 2 years. You must take the road test before your permit expires. If it expires before you take the test, you must retake the knowledge test and pay the fee again to get a new permit.

Can my parent or guardian supervise my driving if they have a suspended license?

No. Your supervising adult must have a valid, non-suspended driver's license. If their license is suspended, revoked, or expired, they cannot legally supervise you. You will need another licensed adult who is at least 21 years old.

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

Your Maryland learner's permit is only valid in Maryland. If you move to another state, you will need to get a learner's permit from that state. Contact the motor vehicle agency in your new state to learn about their requirements.