For driving licenses, Maryland uses a graduated licensing system. That just means you do not get a full driver’s license all at once. You move through stages. Each stage gives you more freedom, but also more responsibility.
If you are planning to apply, you will deal with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, usually called the MVA. Most people visit one of the MVA locations in person at least once, even though many parts of the process now happen online or by mail.
Steps for Getting a Driver’s License in Maryland
If you want to get your driver’s license, you have to go through these steps:
Getting a Learner’s Permit
For most new drivers, everything starts with a learner’s permit. In Maryland, you can apply for a learner’s permit at 15 years and 9 months. Adults who have never been licensed also start here.
To get a learner’s permit, you need to pass a written knowledge test and a vision screening. The written test is done on a computer and has 25 questions. You study for it using the Maryland Driver’s Manual. The questions are about road signs, basic traffic laws, and safe driving habits.
The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. If your vision needs correction, that may simply mean wearing glasses or contacts while driving.
You also need documents. You must bring proof of your age and identity, proof of lawful status if required, proof of your Social Security number or ineligibility, and proof that you live in Maryland. Usually, this means a passport or birth certificate, plus two documents showing your Maryland address.
If you are under 16, you also need a school attendance form signed by your school.
There is a fee for the learner’s permit, and once you pass everything, you are allowed to drive only with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old and has driving experience. No phones and no exceptions.
Practicing With a Learner’s Permit
The learner’s permit stage is about practice. Maryland takes this part seriously. You are expected to spend real time driving before moving on.
Drivers under 25 must complete 60 hours of supervised driving practice. At least 10 of those hours must be at night. Drivers 25 and older must complete 14 hours, with at least 3 hours at night.
All of these hours must be logged. You can use a paper log or an approved app. If the log is missing or incomplete, you may not be allowed to move forward.
There is also a required waiting period. How long you must hold your learner’s permit depends on your age. Teens usually wait 9 months. Adults wait less time, but still must meet the minimum requirement. If you get a ticket during this period, the clock can reset. That is frustrating, but it is how the system works.
Completing the Driver’s Education Requirements
Maryland requires new drivers to complete a certified driver’s education course. This includes 30 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training with an approved instructor.
You do not have to finish driver’s education before getting your learner’s permit, but many people find it easier to do the class early. The driving school reports your completion directly to the MVA, so you usually do not need to bring proof.
This course is required even if you are older. Age does not remove this step for first-time drivers.
Taking the Driving Skills Test
Once you complete your practice hours, finish driver’s education, and hold your learner’s permit for the required time, you can schedule your driving skills test.
This test happens at an MVA site and must be scheduled in advance. Walk-ins are not allowed. You bring your own vehicle, and it must be insured and in good working condition.
The test has two parts. One part is done on a closed course. The other part is on public roads, usually for about 10 to 15 minutes. The examiner watches how you handle turns, traffic, lane changes, and basic control of the car.
Parallel parking is no longer part of the Maryland test, which surprises some people.
If you pass, you receive a paper document that acts as a temporary license until your card arrives in the mail.
The Provisional License Stage
After passing the driving test, most new drivers receive a provisional license. This license comes with restrictions.
For a period of time, there are limits on driving late at night and on having young passengers in the car. Phone use is still not allowed. These rules exist to reduce accidents among new drivers.
You must hold the provisional license for 18 months with no moving violations. If you receive a ticket or violate the restrictions, the waiting period can restart.
Once the 18 months pass without issues, the provisional license automatically converts to a full driver’s license.
Getting a Full Maryland Driver’s License
After meeting all provisional requirements, you are issued a full driver’s license. There is no additional driving test at this stage. The change happens through the system.
Maryland now mails all licenses, permits, and ID cards. Cards usually arrive within 4 to 7 business days and include advanced security features. Many renewals and changes can be done online to avoid unnecessary trips.
Key Takeaways
- Maryland uses a step-by-step system, and skipping steps is not allowed.
- Most new drivers start with a learner’s permit, no matter their age.
- Practice hours and waiting periods are taken seriously.
- Driver’s education is required for first-time drivers.