Maryland Driver's License 2025: A Complete Guide

Table Of Content

Are you gearing up for your Maryland driver’s license? Not sure where to start? Well, we’ve got you covered! Learn the latest requirements, processes, and resources for becoming a licensed driver in the Terrapin State.

Understanding the Different Driver's License Classes in Maryland

Not sure which driver's license you need in Maryland?

Class A CDL or Class B CDL?

Class C CDL or just a regular Class C?

Maryland's license system can be tricky because commercial and non-commercial licenses use the same letters.

We’re here with a complete guide to Maryland driver's license classes, breaking down the differences and guiding you on how to get each type of license.

Class A (Non-Commercial)

A non-commercial Class A driver’s license allows the operation of any combination of vehicles, such as a car towing a trailer, where the combined weight rating is 26,001 pounds or more, provided the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

Class B (Non-Commercial)

A non-commercial Class B driver’s license allows the operation of a single vehicle with a weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more or such a vehicle towing a vehicle not exceeding 10,000 pounds.

Class C (Non-Commercial)

A non-commercial Class C driver’s license is a standard driver’s license for operating regular cars, SUVs, and trucks under 26,001 pounds.

Class M

A Class M license allows you to operate motorcycles legally on public roads.

Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL)

Class A (Commercial)

This license allows you to operate any combination of vehicles with a combined weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, with the towed vehicle exceeding 10,000 pounds.

Class B (Commercial)

This commercial license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more or a combination where the towed vehicle does not exceed 10,000 pounds.

Class C (Commercial)

A Class C commercial license allows you to operate vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or carry hazardous materials, regardless of weight.

How to Get a Maryland Driver’s License

Maryland follows a Graduation Driver’s License (GDL) System, also known as the Rookie Driver laws. This system is one of the most developed and distinguished in the country. Unlike many other states, it applies to drivers of all ages and not just teens.

Getting a Maryland driver's license involves three key steps:

1. Start by applying for a Learner’s Permit.

2. Get your Provisional License.

3. Finally, apply for your Complete/Full License.

Stage 1: Learner’s Permit: A Guide for Novice Drivers in Maryland

There are two kinds of permits issued by the Maryland MVA - the type 1 permit and the type 2 permit.

The type 1 learner’s permit is for first-time license applicants. The type 2 permit is for those who’ve held a driver’s license in the past or are looking to switch to a different license class.

Here, we’ll discuss the regular type 1 learner’s permit.

Eligibility Criteria

The minimum age to enter the Maryland graduated license system and apply for a learner's permit is 15 years and nine months.

Documents Required

The following documents are required when applying for your learner’s permit:

1. Proof of Identity:

   Bring any of the following:

   • U.S. Birth Certificate

   • Valid U.S. Passport

   • Certificate of Naturalization

2. Proof of Social Security Number:

   Bring any of the following:

   • Social Security Card

   • W-2 form

   • SSA-1099 form

3. Proof of Maryland Residency:

   Bring any of the following:

   • Utility bill

   • Bank statement

   • Lease agreement

If you are under 18, your parent or guardian's address can serve as proof of residency.

Validity

A Maryland learner's permit is valid for two years from the date of issuance.

Process

Follow this process for your Maryland learner’s permit:

1. Gather and prepare your documents as mentioned above (proof of SSN, identity, and Maryland residency). Additionally:

   • If you are under 16, you need a completed verification of identity and/or school attendance form (DL-300) from your school.

   • If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must co-sign your application.

2. Schedule an appointment at your local Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office.

3. Visit the MVA office and submit your permit application and documents.

4. Pay the required fee.

5. Pass a vision exam. Visual acuity must be more than 20/40 but at least 20/70 in one or both eyes.

6. Pass a written knowledge test. Read the Official Maryland Driver’s Handbook thoroughly and test its knowledge with free practice tests to pass on your first attempt.

7. Once you receive your learner's permit, practice driving under supervision before you can apply for a provisional license.

Restrictions

Here are the key restrictions for a Maryland learner's permit:

1. Supervised Driving

A learner’s permit holder has to be accompanied by a licensed driver who has held their license for a minimum of three years and is at least 21.

2. No Cell Phone Use

Learner’s permit holders are prohibited from using a cell phone while driving, even with hands-free or Bluetooth devices. However, they can use their phones to call 911 in an emergency.

3. Driving Hours

You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by a licensed and experienced supervising driver. Other exemptions for traveling alone include employment, school, or volunteer work.

4. Passenger Restrictions

You cannot have passengers under 18 who are not part of your immediate family unless accompanied by a qualified supervising driver.

5. Practice Requirements

You must complete at least 60 hours of supervised driving practice. This includes 10 hours of nighttime driving.

Note: If you are found guilty of a traffic violation, your permit holding period will reset, requiring you to wait an additional six months before you can take the driving skills test and obtain your provisional driver's license.

Stage 2: A Guide to MD Provisional Driver’s License

Obtaining a Maryland provisional driver's license is the second towards complete driving independence in the Old Line State.

Here, we will walk you through the requirements, documents, and overall process for this license.

Eligibility Criteria

The minimum age to apply for an MD provisional license is 16 years and 6 months.

Documents Required

The following documents are required when applying for your learner’s permit:

1. Proof of Identity:

   Bring any of the following:

   • U.S. Birth Certificate

   • Valid U.S. Passport

   • Certificate of Naturalization

2. Proof of Social Security Number:

   Bring any of the following:

   • Social Security Card

   • W-2 form

   • SSA-1099 form

3. Proof of Maryland Residency:

   Bring any of the following:

   • Utility bill

   • Bank statement

   • Lease agreement

If you are under 18, your parent or guardian's address can serve as proof of residency.

Validity

A Maryland provisional driver's license is valid for a minimum of 18 months. During this period, you must keep your driving record clean and avoid moving violations.

Process

To obtain a provisional driver's license in Maryland, follow these steps:

1. You must first complete the learner's permit requirement:

   • Hold your learner's permit for at least nine months without any violations.

   • Complete a Maryland MVA-approved driver education course. This includes 30 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training.

   • Log at least 60 hours of supervised driving practice. This includes 10 hours of nighttime driving.

2. Schedule your driving test through the Maryland MVA scheduling system and pass it.

3. Bring your learner's permit, practice skills log, and a vehicle in working condition for the test.

4. Pass the driving skills test.

5. Go to your local MVA office with your documents.

6. Submit your application and pay the required fee.

7. Have your photo and signature taken for your new license.

8. Receive your provisional driver's license.

Restrictions

Here are the restrictions for a Maryland provisional driver's license:

1. Alcohol Restrictions

Drivers under 21 must not have any measurable alcohol in their system while driving.

2. Passenger Restrictions

Drivers under 18 cannot have passengers under 18, except for immediate family, during the initial 151 days unless accompanied by a skilled supervising driver.

3. Driving Hours

Drivers under 18 cannot drive between midnight and 5 AM unless accompanied by a skilled supervising driver or traveling for employment, school, volunteer work, or an athletic event.

4. Cell Phone Use

Like learners, provisional license holders aren’t allowed to use any wireless comm device, including hands-free devices, while driving.

5. Seat Belt Use

It is mandatory for all passengers to wear seat belts or be in child safety seats at all times.

6. Clean Driving Record

Provisional license holders must keep their driving record clean for 18 months before being eligible for a full driver's license. Any conviction or probation before judgment will restart the 18-month period.

Stage 3: Getting Your Full Maryland Driver’s License

The full license is the last step of the Maryland GDL Program. With this license, you can drive legally and freely with almost no restrictions besides the basic traffic laws.

Eligibility Criteria

The minimum age to apply for a complete MD driver’s license is 18 years.

Documents Required

You generally don’t require any document besides your provisional license to apply for your full driver’s license. However, in some cases, you may have to visit the MVA and bring along some necessary documentation.

Validity

A Maryland full driver's license is valid for eight years from the date of issuance.

Process

To obtain a full driver's license in Maryland, follow these steps:

1. Maintain a provisional license for at least 18 months without any moving violations or alcohol-related offenses.

2. You must meet the age requirement, which is 18.

3. Once you meet the above requirements, the Maryland MVA will automatically convert your provisional license to a full driver's license.

4. If there are any issues or updates needed, you may need to visit the MVA to finalize the process.

5. You will receive an attachment card in the mail proving the conversion of your provisional license to a full license. Carry this card with your provisional license as proof of your licensing status change. You won’t need the card once your provisional license expires.

Restrictions

Here are the restrictions for a full driver's license in Maryland:

1. Alcohol Restrictions

Drivers under 21 must not have any measurable alcohol in their system while driving.

2. Medical Conditions

Drivers with certain medical conditions may have specific restrictions, such as the requirement to use corrective lenses or an ignition interlock device.

3. Seat Belt Use

All drivers and passengers must wear seat belts or use appropriate child safety seats.

4. Driving Record

Drivers must ensure a seamless driving record to avoid additional restrictions or penalties.

Maryland Written Knowledge Test

The Written Knowledge Test is a requirement for the Maryland learner’s permit. This test comprises 25 multiple-choice questions that cover traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.

Here are some frequently asked questions about the test.

1. What’s the Maryland written exam passing score?

To pass the exam, you must answer at least 22 of the MCQs correctly, which is an 85% passing score.

2. How long is the test?

The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes to complete. However, there’s no strict time limit.

3. How do I prepare for the MVA written test?

The ideal way to prepare and build confidence for the MD written test is to study the Official Maryland Driver’s Manual. The handbook contains all the information you need about the test. The second step is to test your handbook knowledge through free practice tests. If you feel like you’ve practiced enough, take a few mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format and types of questions you’ll likely encounter.

4. How many languages is the MD written knowledge exam available in?

The Maryland written knowledge exam is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, Korean, Vietnamese, Chinese, and others, to accommodate non-English speakers.

5. What will happen if I fail the written test?

You can set up another appointment through the website (select the Law re-test option) or at your local office. The test can be retaken the next day or as soon as an appointment opens up. However, if you fail the test two or more times, wait at least seven calendar days before trying again.

Maryland Driving Skills Test

The Maryland Driving Skills Test evaluates your ability and skill to operate a vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. It tests basic maneuvers like turning, parking, and stopping, as well as driving in traffic.

What Happens Before the Skills Test?

You must ensure you’ve practiced enough before scheduling the skill test.

Necessary Items to Bring

Once it’s been scheduled, gather your confidence and the following items and documents:

• Your learner’s permit or latest driver’s license

• A certified practice skills log (for new drivers)

• A Maryland MVA-approved course certificate, unless it was submitted electronically (for new drivers)

• The 3-Hour Alcohol and Drug Education Certificate (if you have a foreign license)

• Contact lenses or glasses if you need them to drive

• Proof of vehicle insurance

• Your vehicle registration card

• Front and rear license plates (with month/year stickers on the rear plate)

Conducting a Vehicle Inspection

Your vehicle must pass a pre-trip inspection to make sure it’s safe for the driving test. Here’s what needs to be in good working order:

• Tires: Properly inflated, with good tread and all lug nuts in place.

• Windshield: Clear view, especially in the wiper area, with no cracks.

• Doors: Both driver and passenger doors should open and close properly.

• Seat Belts: Functional seat belts for all passengers.

• Lights and Lenses: All lights should work, and lenses should be intact.

• Gas Gauge: Must show at least half a tank of fuel.

• Gas Cap: Securely in place.

• Mirrors: Rearview and left side mirrors should be intact and properly positioned.

• Front Seats: Should be clean, free of debris, and adjustable.

• Glove Box: Must be closed.

• Interior: No loose items that could be hazardous.

• Exhaust System: Should be working without leaks.

• Pedals: Brake and accelerator pedals must function properly.

• Dashboard: No warning lights should be on.

• Fluids: No leaks.

• Horn: Should work.

• Speedometer: Must be functional.

Weather Considerations

• In wet or cold weather, windows should be rolled up, and the heater, defroster, windshield wipers, and washers must be operational, with washer fluid available.

• In hot weather, the front windows should be able to open, or the air conditioner must work.

What Happens During the Skills Test?

Here’s what you can expect during the driving test:

Who Can Stay in the Car

Only your examiner and an interpreter (if needed) are allowed in the vehicle at the time of the test. You must listen to the examiner, follow their instructions and all road signs and rules, and drive safely.

Test Structure

The test is divided into two parts:

Basic Skills Test

This part takes place on a closed course before you head onto public roads. You’ll need to demonstrate:

• Overall Driving Ability

• Reverse Two-Point Turnabout: You’ll be asked to drive past a space that’s 10 feet wide and 20 feet deep, then reverse your car fully into the space. You have three minutes to complete this maneuver. Taking over three minutes will result in automatic disqualification.

If you don’t pass this portion, you won’t move on to the public road test and will need a new appointment.

Public Road Test

This part of the test involves driving on a designated route with various traffic conditions. Your examiner will evaluate your ability to:

• Make turns

• Brake smoothly

• Steer the wheel

• Check traffic, blindspots, and hazards

• Stop

• Navigate intersections and curves

• Change lanes

• Curves:

• Identify road signs and signals

What are some critical driving errors that may lead to disqualification?

Here are a few reasons that may cause your test to end immediately and get you disqualified:

• Not properly fastening your seat belt (shoulder and lap)

• Failing to wear required glasses or contact lenses

• Taking more than 3 minutes to get done with the closed course

• Disobeying any traffic signs, signals, or laws

• Hitting a flag or cone

• Failing to stop completely at a stop sign

• Getting involved in an otherwise avoidable crash

• Making contact with another vehicle, object, or pedestrian

• Driving over sidewalks or curbs

• Causing another driver to take action to avoid a crash because of your mistake

• Unnecessarily impeding the traffic flow

• Ignoring the examiner’s verbal instructions

• Forcing the examiner to intervene to prevent a collision or another unsafe situation

What Happens After the Driving Test?

If you fail the skills test, you can retake it the next day if an appointment is available, but only if it’s your first failure. For a second or any additional failures, you'll need to wait at least one week before you can try again, depending on appointment availability.

Maryland Driver’s License for New Residents

Whether you have an out-of-state or foreign license, if you plan to drive in Maryland, you need to convert your current license to an MD driver's license within sixty days of getting your residency.

When are you considered a Maryland resident?

If you live within the state for a purpose that’s not temporary or transitory, you’re considered a resident.

What to do If You Have an Out-of-State License

If you have a valid driver’s license from another U.S. state or territory, you typically won’t need to take the written exam or driving skills test.

Here’s what you’ll need to do to transfer your license:

1. Gather the required documents. You’ll need to bring proof of the following:

   • Age

   • Identity

   • Lawful status

   • Social Security Number (or proof of ineligibility)

   • Maryland residency (2 documents)

2. Visit one of the MVA’s full-service offices to apply. While an appointment isn’t required, you can schedule one through the MD MVA’s Scheduling System for convenience.

3. Pay the fee of $9.00/year, based on the duration of your new license, which the computer will determine. The maximum validity is eight years. Payment options include cash, check, MasterCard, Visa, American Express, and Discover.

4. Take and pass a vision exam. You need to have visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye.

5. Finally, surrender your current license and wait for your Maryland driver’s license.

6. Your MD driver’s license will arrive by mail within 4-7 days. If it hasn’t arrived after 15 days, call the MVA.

If your out-of-state license has been out-of-date for a year or longer, you must pass both the written and driving tests. You’ll be issued a provisional license if you’ve had your license for less than 18 months.

What to do If You Have a Foreign License

No knowledge or driving skills tests are required if you hold a valid driver’s license from the following countries: Canada, France, South Korea, Yukon Territory, Germany, Japan, Taiwan, or a U.S. Territory.

If your license has been expired for less than one year, you still won’t need to take the tests if it is from one of these countries: Canada, Yukon Territory, France, or a U.S. Territory.

Additionally, you must surrender your Germany or France license when getting your Maryland license. However, you can keep them if you choose to take the tests instead.

Here’s how to transfer your foreign license to Maryland:

1. Visit an MVA full-service office. You can make an appointment online using the MD MVA’s Scheduling System, but it’s not required.

2. Present your foreign license. If you don’t have it, provide a driving record from the issuing authority in your country, with a letter or an apostille from your embassy. If needed, provide an international driver’s license or get it translated into English by an approved MVA translator.

3. Complete a 3-hour drug & alcohol education program if you’ve never held a U.S. license.

4. Bring documents to prove your identity, age, current lawful status, SSN (or proof of ineligibility), and Maryland residency (2 documents).

5. Take a vision exam. You need to have visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye.

6. If your country isn’t on the exempt list, you’ll need to take a knowledge test. If you fail, you can reschedule for the next business day or later.

7. Schedule and pass the driving test (if required). If you don’t pass on the first or second try, you’ll need to wait at least seven days before each attempt.

8. Pay the fee of $9.00/year, based on the duration of your new license, which the computer will determine. The maximum validity is eight years. Payment options include cash, check, MasterCard, Visa, American Express, and Discover.

9. Receive Maryland driver’s license. It will arrive by mail within 4-7 days. If it doesn’t arrive after 15 days, call the MVA.

For more commonly asked questions you can visit our Maryland Driver License FAQs page.