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

Maryland issues driver's licenses through the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). You will need to visit an MVA office in person, bring specific documents, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay a fee. The whole process typically takes several weeks from start to finish, though you can walk in for testing at most locations without an appointment.

Maryland recognizes two types of licenses: a standard license for drivers 18 and older, and a provisional license for drivers 16 and 17. The steps differ slightly depending on your age and whether you already hold a license from another state.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity, proof of Maryland residency, and your Social Security number to any MVA office to start the process.
  • Maryland requires you to pass a written knowledge test and a behind-the-wheel driving test before you receive your license.
  • Drivers under 18 must hold a provisional license for at least six months and follow restrictions on passengers and driving hours before they can get a standard license.
  • The MVA charges a fee for each test attempt and for the license itself, and you can pay by cash, check, or card at most offices.
  • You do not need an appointment for most testing; you can arrive during business hours and wait for the next available examiner.

Documents you must bring to the MVA office

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card as proof of identity. A driver's license from another state counts as proof of identity only if it is still valid. Expired licenses from other states do not work.

For proof of Maryland residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and a Maryland address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. You cannot use a post office box address.

Write down your Social Security number or bring a Social Security card. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a license, but you will need to bring additional documents — ask the MVA office which ones before you visit.

The written knowledge test and what it covers

The written test has 25 questions about Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 19 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages; ask at the MVA office which ones are available at your location.

You can study using the Maryland Driver's Manual, which the MVA provides free online and in print at every office. The manual covers speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, and what different road signs mean. Most people spend two to four hours studying before they feel ready to test.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day. There is a fee each time you take the test. Bring the same documents you brought the first time.

The behind-the-wheel driving test and what examiners look for

After you pass the written test, you can schedule or walk in for the driving test. The test lasts about 20 minutes and takes place on public roads near the MVA office. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors. A passenger or family member can drive the vehicle to the test, but you must be the one driving during the exam.

The examiner watches how you handle basic driving tasks: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic signals. They also check that you use your mirrors, signal before turning, and maintain a safe speed. Common reasons people fail include rolling through stop signs, hitting the curb while parking, or not checking mirrors before changing lanes.

If you fail the driving test, you can retake it after paying the fee again. Most people pass on their second or third attempt. There is no waiting period between attempts.

Fees and how to pay

The written test costs $7. The driving test costs $16. The license itself costs $70 for an eight-year license or $35 for a four-year license. If you fail either test, you pay the test fee again when you retake it. The MVA accepts cash, checks, and debit or credit cards at all offices.

If you are transferring a license from another state, you do not have to retake the written test, but you still must pass the driving test. The fees are the same.

Provisional licenses for drivers under 18

If you are 16 or 17, you will receive a provisional license after you pass both tests. A provisional license lets you drive alone during daylight hours but comes with restrictions: you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., you cannot carry passengers under 21 unless a parent or guardian is in the car, and you cannot use a cell phone while driving.

You must hold a provisional license for at least six months before you can upgrade to a standard license. After six months, return to any MVA office with your provisional license and pay a $7 fee to convert it. You do not need to retake any tests.

What to do if you already have a license from another state

If you hold a valid driver's license from another state and you move to Maryland, you can transfer it without retaking the written test. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of Maryland residency, and your Social Security number to an MVA office. You will still need to pass the behind-the-wheel driving test and pay the test fee and license fee.

If your out-of-state license is expired, you must take both the written and driving tests as if you were a new driver. Bring the same documents as a first-time applicant.

Finding an MVA office near you and office hours

Maryland has MVA offices in every county. You can find the office nearest you and its hours on the MVA website at mva.maryland.gov. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, and some locations have Saturday hours. A few offices are open on Sunday.

You do not need an appointment for the written test or driving test at most locations. Arrive during business hours, bring your documents, and wait for the next available examiner. Wait times vary by location and time of day; offices are usually less busy on weekday mornings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or by mail?

No. You must take the written test in person at an MVA office. You cannot take it online, by mail, or through any other method. You must also bring your documents in person to prove your identity and residency.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test after paying the fee again. There is no waiting period between attempts. Most people pass within two or three tries. If you keep failing, consider taking a few lessons with a professional driving instructor before your next attempt.

Do I need to bring my own car for the driving test?

Yes. The vehicle must be registered and insured in Maryland or another state, and it must be in safe working condition with working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors. You cannot use a vehicle that belongs to the MVA or the testing center.

How long does a Maryland driver's license last?

You can choose a four-year or eight-year license when you pay the fee. An eight-year license costs $70 and a four-year license costs $35. When your license expires, you will need to renew it at an MVA office.

Can I get a Real ID compliant license in Maryland?

Yes. A Real ID compliant license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal requirements for air travel and entry to federal buildings. You get it by bringing the same documents to the MVA office. There is no extra fee for a Real ID license.