To start driving in Maryland, you’ll need a Learner’s Permit. This permit allows new drivers to begin the learning and practice process. It’s crucial to have a Learner’s Permit before enrolling in any driving school or driving on Maryland roads.
Requirements:
Age:
The minimum age to apply for a Learner’s Permit is 15 years and 9 months old.
Required Documents:
- Proof of identity. If using a U.S. passport, you must also provide proof of parental relationship or dependency, such as tax returns or health insurance cards/policies.
- Proof of Social Security Number. For a complete list of documents you can bring and to schedule your appointment, visit the Online Document Guide.
Note: If the minor is in the custody of the local Department of Social Services (DSS), the Director or Director’s Designee (e.g., social worker) is authorized to co-sign the application, even if DSS has limited custody. They must provide documentation to accompany the application, including their State ID card and the original court document (bearing a seal) reflecting custody of the minor with DSS.
Required Tests:
To obtain a Learner’s Permit, you must pass a vision test and a knowledge test on traffic laws.
Scheduling an Appointment:
To complete the Learner’s Permit application, you must schedule an appointment at any MVA full-service office. You can pre-complete the application and schedule your appointment online with myMVA.
After completing your appointment, your permit will be mailed.
If your Learner’s Permit expires or you are unable to complete or pass the required skills tests before it expires, you will have to reapply for a new permit. To do so, please:
- Pass the vision and knowledge tests.
- Pay the required fees.
- Have a parent/guardian co-sign the application if you are a minor.
- Start your application pre-completion online with myMVA and schedule a new appointment to complete your new permit application.
Learner’s Permit Restrictions:
Learner’s Permit holders are prohibited from using a cell phone even with a Bluetooth/hands-free device while operating a vehicle, except to make 911 emergency calls. Violations could result in the suspension of your driving privilege.
When driving, Learner’s Permit holders must have a qualified supervising driver, who is at least 21 years old and has held a driver’s license for at least 3 years. This person must be seated beside the new driver at all times; no other person may be in the front seat.
The qualified supervisor (parent, guardian, or instructor) must complete the practice skills log in the New Driver Practice Guide for the Learner’s Permit holder, which is issued by the MVA with each Learner’s Permit. The new driver will be required to present the completed certification page from the New Driver Practice Guide (with the minimum practice hours for their age classification as listed in the chart below) and their unexpired Maryland Learner’s Permit when they arrive for their skills testing appointment.
If a Learner’s Permit driver is convicted of, or receives probation before judgment (PBJ) for, a traffic violation they must hold the permit for a minimum of 9 months from the date they were convicted of the traffic violation or were granted a PBJ. They must also meet all requirements for a provisional license before becoming eligible to take the driving skills test. Applicants under age 25 when first issued a Maryland learner’s permit, and who then turn 25, the MVA will allow the applicant to take the skills test if the permit has been held at least 45 days (the 45 days may include days the applicant held the permit before turning age 25). The applicant must complete at least 14 hours of supervised driving and the required driver education program. The qualified supervisor must complete the certification page from the practice skills log.
