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, procedures, and restrictions for obtaining a learner’s permit in the state.
Maryland follows a Graduated Licensing System, designed to provide new drivers with a structured learning experience before obtaining a full driver’s license. A learner’s permit allows supervised driving practice before taking the road skills test.
Requirements for a Maryland Learner’s Permit
To be eligible for a learner’s permit in Maryland, you must meet specific age and documentation requirements, and pass required tests.
Age Requirement
The minimum age to apply for a learner’s permit is 15 years and 9 months old.
Document Requirements
You will need to provide the following documents when applying:
- Proof of Identity: A valid U.S. passport, birth certificate, or other acceptable identification. If using a U.S. passport as proof of identity, 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 document displaying your Social Security number.
- Proof of Parental Relationship or Dependency (if under 16): Documents such as a birth certificate listing parents’ names, a tax return, or a health insurance card/policy.
For a complete list of acceptable documents, visit the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration’s (MVA) Online Document Guide.
Required Tests
Applicants must pass a vision test and a knowledge test covering Maryland traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.
Application Process
Schedule an Appointment
To apply for your learner’s permit, schedule an appointment at a Maryland MVA full-service office. You can begin the application process and schedule your appointment online through myMVA.
Completing the Application
During your appointment, you’ll submit your required documents, pay the application fee, and take the vision and knowledge tests. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must co-sign your application.
Receiving Your Permit
After successfully completing your appointment, your learner’s permit will be mailed to you. If your permit expires before you complete the necessary requirements for a provisional license, you must reapply, retake the tests, and pay the associated fees. You can start the reapplication process online with myMVA.
Learner’s Permit Restrictions
Holding a learner’s permit comes with specific restrictions:
Supervised Driving
You must always be accompanied by 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 sit in the front passenger seat beside you, with no other passengers in the front.
Cell Phone Use
Cell phone use, even with hands-free devices, is prohibited while driving with a learner’s permit, except for making emergency 911 calls. Violations can result in suspension of your driving privilege.
Practice Driving Requirements
A qualified supervising driver must complete a practice skills log documenting supervised driving hours. The log is provided in the Rookie Driver Practice Guide or Rookie Driver Practice Guide (Spanish), which is issued with each learner’s permit. The required number of practice hours varies based on age and must be completed before taking the driving skills test.
| Age | Supervised Driving Hours |
|---|---|
| 18 or under (without High School Diploma or equivalent) | 60 hours (10 at night) |
| 18 (with High School Diploma or equivalent) | 60 hours (10 at night) |
| 19-24 | 60 hours (10 at night) |
| 25 and older | 14 hours (3 at night) |
Moving Violations and Learner’s Permits
If you receive a moving violation or probation before judgment (PBJ) while holding a learner’s permit, your permit must be held for at least nine months following the conviction or PBJ. You must also fulfill all provisional license requirements before taking the driving skills test.
Conclusion
Obtaining a learner’s permit in Maryland involves meeting specific requirements and following established procedures. Understanding these guidelines and adhering to the restrictions associated with a learner’s permit is essential for a successful transition to a provisional driver’s license. For further information about Maryland’s Graduated Licensing System, visit the MVA’s Rookie Driver page.
