What you need to do to get a Maryland driver's license

To get a Maryland driver's license, you must visit a Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office in person, pass a written knowledge test and a driving skills test, and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. The entire process typically takes several weeks from your first visit to receiving your license in the mail. Maryland does not issue licenses on the spot — you'll receive a temporary paper license at the MVA office and your plastic card arrives later.

You can start the process at any age 15 years and 9 months if you're getting a learner's permit first, or at age 16 years and 6 months if you're going straight to a full license with a co-signer present. The fees vary depending on which type of license you're getting and how long you want it to be valid.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit an MVA office in person with original documents proving your identity, residency, and Social Security number — copies or digital photos are not accepted.
  • Maryland requires a written knowledge test and a behind-the-wheel driving test before issuing a license, and you can schedule the driving test online after passing the written exam.
  • A learner's permit is required for drivers under 18 and must be held for at least six months before you can take the driving test.
  • Your license arrives by mail within two to three weeks after you pass both tests; you'll receive a temporary paper license to use in the meantime.
  • Fees range from $70 to $110 depending on license type and validity period, and you must bring payment in cash, check, or debit card to your appointment.

Documents you must bring to the MVA office

Maryland requires original documents — not copies, photos, or digital versions. Bring one document that proves your identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or military ID. You also need one document proving your current Maryland address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license or state ID from another state counts as identity proof but not as proof of residency.

You must also provide your Social Security number. If you don't have a Social Security card, bring a document that shows your number, such as a tax return, W-2, or 1099 form. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or travel document showing your entry into the country.

If you're under 18, bring a parent or legal guardian to the MVA office. They must sign your process in person. If you're 18 or older, you can explore alone.

Getting your learner's permit first

If you're under 18, you must get a learner's permit before you can take the driving test. You can get a permit at age 15 years and 9 months. Bring the same documents listed above, pay the permit fee (currently $35), and pass the written knowledge test at the MVA office. You don't need to schedule an appointment for the written test — you can take it the same day you explore.

After you pass the written test, you must hold your learner's permit for at least six months before you're allowed to take the driving test. During this time, you can practice driving with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old and sitting in the front passenger seat. Maryland law requires that you follow certain restrictions while on a learner's permit, such as not driving between midnight and 5 a.m. unless supervised by a parent or guardian.

Once six months have passed, you can schedule your driving test online through the MVA website or by calling the MVA. The driving test costs $20 and tests your ability to handle basic driving tasks like parking, turning, and stopping.

Passing the written knowledge test

The written test covers Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the free Maryland Driver's Manual, available on the MVA website or in print at any MVA office. The test has 25 questions, and you must answer at least 19 correctly to pass. You get one chance per visit to the MVA office — if you fail, you can retake it on another day.

The test is offered in English and several other languages. Tell the MVA staff which language you need when you arrive. You cannot bring study materials, phones, or other devices into the testing area. The test takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

Scheduling and taking the driving test

After you pass the written test, you can schedule your behind-the-wheel driving test online at mva.maryland.gov or by phone at 410-787-7758. You can also schedule in person at any MVA office. The test is typically available within two to four weeks of when you request it, depending on how busy your local office is.

For the driving test, bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you'll be driving. The vehicle must be registered in Maryland, have valid tags, and pass a safety inspection (working brakes, lights, wipers, and horn). You must also bring a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old to sit in the passenger seat during the test — this person cannot be a family member or someone who lives with you.

The test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes and includes driving on local roads, parking, and handling different traffic situations. You pass if you demonstrate safe driving habits and follow all traffic laws during the test.

Fees and payment methods

Maryland driver's license fees depend on the type of license and how long it's valid. A standard license valid for five years costs $70. A license valid for eight years costs $110. A learner's permit costs $35. You must pay at the time of your visit using cash, check, or debit card — credit cards are not accepted at all MVA offices, though some locations may accept them. Call your local office ahead of time to confirm what payment methods they take.

If you're renewing an existing Maryland license, the fee is lower than getting a new one. If you need a replacement license because yours was lost or stolen, there is an additional replacement fee on top of the standard license fee.

What happens after you pass the tests

After you pass both the written and driving tests, the MVA staff will give you a temporary paper license that is valid for 30 days. This temporary license allows you to drive legally while you wait for your plastic license card to arrive by mail. Your permanent license typically arrives within two to three weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods.

Check the address on your temporary license to make sure it's correct. If it's wrong, tell the MVA staff right away so they can correct it before your permanent license is mailed. Once your plastic license arrives, the temporary paper license is no longer valid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Maryland driver's license without a learner's permit?

If you're 18 or older, yes — you can go straight to the full license without getting a learner's permit first. You still must pass both the written and driving tests. If you're under 18, you must get a learner's permit and hold it for at least six months before taking the driving test.

What if I fail the written test or the driving test?

You can retake either test on another day. There is no additional fee to retake the written test, but you must pay the $20 driving test fee each time you schedule it. You can retake the written test as many times as you need, but you must wait at least one day between attempts.

Do I need to schedule an appointment at the MVA office?

You can schedule an appointment online at mva.maryland.gov to reduce wait times, but walk-ins are also accepted. During busy times, wait times can be several hours if you don't have an appointment. Scheduling ahead is strongly recommended.

What if I move to a different address after I get my license?

You must update your address with the MVA within 60 days of moving. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at an MVA office. There is no fee to change your address.

Can I renew my license online or by mail?

Maryland allows online renewal for some drivers, but you must be may be able to access — typically meaning your license is not expired by more than one year and you have no medical or legal restrictions. Check the MVA website to see if you're may be able to access. If not, you must renew in person at an MVA office.