Getting your learner’s permit is the first step to getting your driver’s license in Maryland. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the requirements, processes, and restrictions involved in obtaining a learner’s permit in Maryland.
Maryland Learner’s Permit Requirements
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) has specific requirements for obtaining a learner’s permit:
Age Requirement:
You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old to apply for a learner’s permit in Maryland.
Required Documents:
Gather the following documents before heading to the MVA:
- Proof of Identity: A valid U.S. passport, birth certificate, or other acceptable forms of identification. If using a U.S. passport, you must also provide proof of parental relationship or dependency (e.g., tax return, health insurance card).
- Proof of Social Security Number: Your Social Security card or a document displaying your Social Security number.
- Proof of Parental Relationship or Dependency (if under 16): Documents such as a tax return or health insurance card/policy showing the relationship. If the minor is under the custody or guardianship of a local Department of Social Services, the Director or Designee can co-sign with proper documentation.
MVA’s Online Document Guide:
For a comprehensive list of acceptable documents, visit the MVA’s Online Document Guide.
Required Tests:
- Vision Test: You will need to pass a vision test to ensure you meet the minimum visual acuity requirements.
- Knowledge Test: You must pass a knowledge test covering Maryland’s traffic laws, road signs, and driving safety rules.
Application Process for a Maryland Learner’s Permit
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Schedule an Appointment: Schedule an appointment at a full-service MVA office. You can complete the pre-application and schedule your appointment online through myMVA.
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Complete the Application: Attend your appointment and submit your application, required documents, and pay the applicable fees.
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Pass the Tests: Take and pass the vision and knowledge tests.
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Receive Your Permit: Your learner’s permit will be mailed to you after your appointment. If your permit expires before completing the required skills tests, you’ll need to reapply, retake the tests, and pay the fees again. You can start the reapplication process online with myMVA.
Restrictions on a Maryland Learner’s Permit
Maryland learner’s permits come 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 at least three years.
- The supervising driver must be seated beside you in the front seat. No other passengers are allowed in the front seat.
- Complete required supervised driving hours (see table below).
Cell Phone Use:
- Cell phone use is prohibited, even with hands-free devices, except for emergency 911 calls. Violations can lead to suspension of your driving privilege.
Practice Driving Logs and Hours:
A supervising driver must maintain a practice driving log documenting the required supervised driving hours. These logs are in the Rookie Driver Practice Guide (English) and Rookie Driver Practice Guide (Spanish). The completed log must be presented at your driving skills test.
| Age | Age 18 or under (without HS Diploma or equivalent) | 18 years old (with HS Diploma or equivalent) | Ages 19-24 | 25 and older |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Holding Period | 9 months | 3 months | 3 months | 45 days |
| Supervised Practice Driving Hours | 60 hours (10 at night) | 60 hours (10 at night) | 60 hours (10 at night) | 14 hours (3 at night) |
Moving Violations:
If you receive a moving violation or probation before judgment (PBJ) while holding a learner’s permit, the minimum holding period extends to nine months from the conviction date.
Driver Education:
Driver’s education is required for all new drivers in Maryland. Typically, this involves 30 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training. Out-of-state driver’s education certificates are generally not accepted, with a few exceptions.
Conclusion
Obtaining a learner’s permit in Maryland involves meeting specific age and documentation requirements, passing vision and knowledge tests, and adhering to driving restrictions. By understanding these requirements and following the application process, you can successfully begin your journey toward obtaining a driver’s license. For more information on the Graduated Licensing System, visit the MVA’s Rookie Driver page.
