Getting your learner’s permit in Maryland is the first step toward getting your driver’s license. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the requirements, processes, and restrictions for obtaining a learner’s permit in Maryland.
Maryland Learner’s Permit Requirements
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) outlines specific requirements for learner’s permit applicants.
Age Requirement:
You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old to apply for a learner’s permit in Maryland.
Required Documents:
To apply, gather the following documents:
- Proof of Identity: A valid U.S. passport, birth certificate, or other acceptable identification. If using a US passport, you must also provide proof of parental relationship or dependency (e.g., tax return, health insurance card).
- Proof of Social Security Number: A Social Security card or other official document displaying your Social Security number.
- Proof of Parental Relationship or Dependency (if under 16): Documents such as a birth certificate listing parents’ names, court documents establishing guardianship, or a tax return showing dependency.
For a complete list of acceptable documents, refer to the MVA’s Online Document Guide.
Required Tests
Before receiving your learner’s permit, you must pass two tests:
- Vision Test: This test assesses your visual acuity to ensure you meet the minimum requirements for safe driving.
- Knowledge Test: This written exam evaluates your understanding of Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study for the test using the Maryland Driver’s Manual.
Application Process
- Schedule an Appointment: Visit the MVA’s website to schedule an appointment at a full-service MVA office. You can often complete a pre-application online to expedite the process.
- Complete the Application: Attend your appointment and submit your application, required documents, and applicable fees.
- Pass the Tests: Take and pass the vision and knowledge tests.
- Receive Your Permit: After successfully completing all requirements, your learner’s permit will be mailed to you. If your permit expires before you obtain your provisional license, you must reapply and retake the required tests.
Learner’s Permit Restrictions in Maryland
Holding a learner’s permit comes with several 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 a minimum of three years.
- The supervising driver must be seated in the front passenger seat beside you. No other passengers are allowed in the front seat.
Cell Phone Use:
- Prohibited: Cell phone use, even with hands-free devices, is strictly prohibited while driving with a learner’s permit, except for making emergency 911 calls. Violations can result in suspension of your driving privileges.
Practice Driving Requirements:
- Required Practice Hours: You must complete a specific number of supervised practice driving hours, including nighttime driving, before you can apply for a provisional license. The required hours vary based on your age and educational status. Refer to the MVA’s Rookie Driver Practice Guide for details. A Spanish version is also available: [/Documents/RD-006S.pdf].
- Practice Skills Log: A supervising driver must document your practice hours in a practice skills log provided by the MVA. You will need to submit this completed log when you apply for your provisional license driving skills test.
Moving Violations and Learner’s Permits
If you are convicted of a moving violation or receive probation before judgment (PBJ) while holding a learner’s permit, it impacts your licensing process. You will be required to hold your permit for at least nine months from the conviction date and fulfill all provisional license requirements before taking the driving skills test.
For detailed information about Maryland’s Graduated Licensing System, please visit the MVA’s Rookie Driver Licensing System page.
