Getting your learner’s permit is an exciting first step toward getting your driver’s license. But how long is a learner’s permit valid in Maryland? This article will cover the validity of a Maryland learner’s permit, requirements for obtaining one, restrictions, and the graduated licensing system.
Maryland Learner’s Permit: Validity and Requirements
A learner’s permit in Maryland allows new drivers to practice driving under supervision. It’s the initial stage of the state’s Graduated Licensing System. A learner’s permit is valid for two years from the date of issuance. However, you must meet specific requirements and pass required tests before the permit expires to progress to a provisional license. If your permit expires before fulfilling these requirements, you’ll need to reapply, retake the tests, and pay the associated fees.
To obtain a learner’s permit in Maryland, you must:
- Be at least 15 years and 9 months old.
- Pass a vision test.
- Pass a knowledge test.
- Provide proof of identity (e.g. US Passport, Birth certificate). If using a US Passport, additional proof of parental relationship is required.
- Provide proof of Social Security Number.
- If under 16, provide additional documentation proving parental relationship or dependency.
- Pay the required fees.
- Have a parent or guardian co-sign the application if you are a minor.
Restrictions on a Maryland Learner’s Permit
Holding a learner’s permit comes with certain restrictions:
- Supervised Driving: You must always drive with a qualified supervising driver who is at least 21 years old and has held a driver’s license for at least three years. This supervisor must sit in the front passenger seat. No other passengers are allowed in the front seat.
- Cell Phone Use: Using a cell phone, even with hands-free devices, is prohibited while driving with a learner’s permit, except for making 911 emergency calls. Violations can lead to suspension of your driving privileges.
- Curfew: There are no specific curfew restrictions for learner’s permit holders in Maryland, but the supervising driver may implement their own rules.
- Practice Driving Hours: Maryland requires a specific number of supervised practice driving hours, including nighttime driving, before you can apply for a provisional license. These hours vary based on age and educational status:
- Under 18 (without high school diploma): 60 hours (10 at night).
- 18 (with high school diploma): 60 hours (10 at night).
- 19-24: 60 hours (10 at night).
- 25 and older: 14 hours (3 at night).
Maryland’s Graduated Licensing System (GLS)
Maryland’s GLS is a three-stage process: learner’s permit, provisional license, and full driver’s license. The GLS aims to gradually introduce new drivers to increasingly complex driving situations, promoting safety and responsible driving habits. The minimum holding periods for a learner’s permit before progressing to a provisional license are:
- Under 18 (without high school diploma): 9 months.
- 18 (with high school diploma): 3 months.
- 19-24: 3 months.
- 25 and older: 45 days.
Moving Violations and Learner’s Permits
If you receive a moving violation or probation before judgment (PBJ) while holding a learner’s permit, it can affect your progression through the GLS. You may be required to hold your permit for a minimum of nine months from the conviction date and fulfill all provisional license requirements before taking the driving skills test.
Conclusion
Understanding the rules and regulations surrounding learner’s permits in Maryland is crucial for new drivers. Remember that a learner’s permit is valid for two years, but progressing to a provisional license requires meeting specific requirements within that timeframe. Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth transition to full driving privileges. For further information, consult the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) website.
