What You Need to Do to Get a Maryland Driver's License

To get a Maryland driver's license, you will need to pass a written knowledge test, a vision screening, and a driving test, then submit documents that prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. The entire process takes place at a Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office. You cannot complete it online, though you can schedule your appointment ahead of time through the MVA website to avoid waiting in line.

Maryland issues licenses to people age 16 and older. If you are under 18, the process includes an additional step: a parent or guardian must sign your process in person. The whole process—from your first visit to receiving your license in the mail—typically takes two to four weeks.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit an MVA office in person to take the written test and driving test; there is no online option for either one.
  • Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a Social Security card or tax document, and proof of your current Maryland address such as a utility bill or lease.
  • The written test covers Maryland traffic laws and safe driving practices; you can study using the official MVA manual available free on the MVA website.
  • After you pass the written and vision tests, you will receive a temporary license that day and your permanent license will arrive by mail within two to four weeks.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present when you explore and must sign your process form.

Documents You Must Bring to the MVA

Maryland requires you to bring original documents or certified copies—photocopies are not accepted. You will need proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof that you live in Maryland.

For identity, bring your original birth certificate or a certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were born. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or a Certificate of Naturalization. For Social Security, bring your Social Security card itself, or a tax return, W-2, or 1099 form that shows your number. For Maryland residency, bring a current utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address on it. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

You will also need to bring a completed process for a Maryland Driver's License or Permit (Form DL-43). You can fill this out before you go to the MVA office or complete it there. Bring your current out-of-state license if you have one.

Scheduling Your MVA Appointment

You can schedule an appointment online through the Maryland MVA website without paying a fee. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointment holders are seen first, and wait times at busy offices can exceed two hours. Scheduling ahead is strongly recommended.

When you schedule, you will choose which MVA office you want to visit and which time slot works for you. The website shows available times for the next several weeks. If no times are open at your preferred location, try searching for offices in nearby counties—many people find appointments faster outside their home county. You will receive a confirmation number by email or text; bring this number with you or have it ready on your phone when you arrive.

Passing the Written Knowledge Test

The written test has 25 questions about Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 19 questions correctly to pass. The test is administered on a computer at the MVA office, and you will receive your score when ready.

You can study for the test using the official Maryland Driver's Manual, available free as a PDF on the MVA website. The manual covers everything the test covers. Some people also study using practice tests available through third-party websites, though the official manual is the most reliable source. You are allowed to take the written test up to three times in one year; if you fail, you can schedule another attempt at a later date.

The Vision Screening and Driving Test

After you pass the written test, you will have your vision screened at the MVA office. This is a basic check to make sure you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.

Next, you will take the driving test with an MVA examiner. The test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes and includes driving on local roads, parking, and demonstrating that you can handle basic driving situations safely. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's registration and proof of insurance must be current. If you do not have access to a vehicle, some MVA offices have vehicles you can use for a fee, though availability is limited and you should call ahead to confirm.

If you fail the driving test, you can retake it. There is no limit on how many times you can attempt it, but you must wait at least one business day between attempts and pay the test fee each time.

Fees and What Happens After You Pass

Maryland charges a fee for a driver's license. The exact amount depends on how long you want the license to be valid—typically five years or eight years. You will pay this fee when you pass your tests and submit your process. Maryland accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at MVA offices.

Once you pass both the written test and the driving test, you will receive a temporary paper license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 45 days and allows you to drive while you wait for your permanent license. Your permanent license will be mailed to the address you provided on your process within two to four weeks. If you do not receive it within that time, contact the MVA to check the status.

Special Rules for Drivers Under 18

If you are under 18, Maryland requires a parent or legal guardian to sign your process in person at the MVA office. You cannot complete this step without them present. Bring a document proving the guardian's identity and relationship to you, such as a birth certificate showing both names or a custody order.

Maryland also has a Graduated Licensing System for drivers under 18. This means your first license will be a Learner's Permit, which has restrictions on when and where you can drive. After holding the permit for a certain period and meeting other requirements, you can return to the MVA to get an Intermediate License, and later a full license. The MVA website has details on these restrictions and timelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my out-of-state license in Maryland instead of getting a new one?

No. If you move to Maryland and want to drive there, you must get a Maryland license. You have 60 days from the date you establish residency to obtain one. After 60 days, driving with an out-of-state license is not legal in Maryland.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it. You must wait at least one business day before your next attempt, and you will pay the test fee again each time. There is no limit on how many times you can try. Many people pass on their second or third attempt.

Do I need to take the written test again if I already have a license from another state?

Yes. Even if you have a valid out-of-state license, you must pass Maryland's written test and driving test to get a Maryland license. Your out-of-state experience does not waive these requirements.

How long is a Maryland driver's license valid?

Maryland offers licenses valid for five years or eight years. You choose the length when you explore, and the fee is different for each option. Your license will show the expiration date on the front.

What if I cannot find proof of residency dated within the last 60 days?

Contact the MVA office before your appointment to ask what alternative documents they will accept. Some offices may accept older utility bills or other documents if you explain your situation. It is better to ask ahead than to arrive unprepared.