Getting your learner’s permit is the first step towards driving freedom, but the knowledge test can be a hurdle. Many first-time test takers are surprised to find that nearly 50% do not pass on their first attempt. Don’t let that statistic discourage you! Preparation is key, and this tutorial is designed to be your practice guide as you study the Maryland Driver’s Manual.
To pass the official Maryland knowledge test and earn your learner’s permit, you’ll need a score of 88% or higher within a 20-minute time limit. This practice exam tutorial offers a sample of the topics you can expect to see on the real test, helping you get ready and increase your chances of passing the first time.
This tutorial provides you with valuable tools to prepare:
- Realistic Practice: Each practice test contains 25 questions, mirroring the format of the actual knowledge test.
- Untimed Learning Mode: Take the untimed version as many times as you need to familiarize yourself with the material. You can even link directly to the relevant sections of the Maryland Driver’s Manual to study specific topics in depth.
- Timed Exam Simulation: Challenge yourself with the timed version to simulate the real test environment and see if you can pass within the 20-minute limit.
Start your untimed learner’s permit practice exam in English to study at your own pace.
Begin the learner’s permit practice test in Spanish for a non-timed study session.
Take the timed learner’s licence practice exam in English to simulate test conditions.
Challenge yourself with the timed learner’s permit practice test in Spanish.
This learner’s licence practice exam is not just for new drivers. It’s a fantastic resource for anyone wanting to refresh their knowledge of Maryland driving rules and regulations. Current drivers can use it to stay updated on motor vehicle laws, and parents can utilize it as a self-assessment tool while guiding their teens through the learning process.
Choosing the Right Knowledge Test
It’s important to select the correct knowledge test based on the type of driver’s license you are seeking. Different license classes have specific tests and regulations.
Important Note: Before beginning any knowledge test, remember that all electronic devices, including cell phones and MP3 players, must be turned off and stored away. Failure to comply may result in test disqualification.
Key Points to Remember:
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) knowledge tests and noncommercial Class A & B knowledge tests are administered exclusively in English.
- Foreign language interpreters are not permitted for CDL or noncommercial Class A or B knowledge or skills tests.
- If you do not pass the knowledge test, you will need to schedule an appointment online or at a branch office to retake it. Oral tests also require appointments scheduled at a branch office.
- For a first-time failure, you can retake the test the next business day if an appointment is available at the branch office.
- After failing the test two or more times, for any noncommercial or commercial knowledge test, there is a mandatory waiting period of seven (7) calendar days before you can retake it.
Noncommercial Driver’s Licence Knowledge Test Details
The specific knowledge test you need to take depends on the class of noncommercial license you are applying for (Class A, B, C, or M) or if you are seeking a Moped Permit.
- For Noncommercial Class C, Moped Permit, and Class M licenses, the test typically consists of 25 questions.
- For Noncommercial Class A and Class B licenses, the test usually has 20 questions.
- Since September 15, 2014, all noncommercial Class A, B, C, M, and Moped knowledge test applicants are given a maximum of 20 minutes to complete the test, whether it’s a computer-based or paper test.
- A passing score is 88% or better.
- Tests are generally administered on computers. Besides English and Spanish, the noncommercial Class “C” knowledge test is available in multiple languages including American Sign Language, Amharic, Arabic, Chinese (Traditional), Farsi, French, Hindi, Korean, Nepali, Portuguese, Russian, Tagalog, Urdu, Vietnamese, and Yoruba as of 2024. The Maryland Drivers’ Manual is also available online in these languages.
Important Note: Oral tests are available by appointment only, and appointments must be scheduled directly at a branch office.
- Foreign language interpreters are allowed for noncommercial tests. Additional information can be found by clicking here.
Important Reminders:
All knowledge and skills test passing scores are valid for a maximum of six (6) months. You will need to retake the knowledge and skills tests, and submit a new application if:
- A learner’s permit was not issued after passing the knowledge test(s).
- A driver’s license was not issued, even after passing both the knowledge and skills tests.
- Your learner’s permit expired before you could convert it to a driver’s license.
- You want to apply for a new permit even if your current one hasn’t expired.
- Your driver’s license has been expired for a year or more.
- You are transferring a license from out-of-country, have passed the required tests, but don’t obtain a Maryland driver’s license within six months.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Knowledge Test Information
The type of CDL knowledge test you’ll take depends on the class of license (A, B, or C) you are applying for.
- CDL tests are administered via computer.
- Computer and written CDL tests are available in English and Spanish ONLY.
- Computer-assisted audio tests are available without appointment if needed.
- Oral CDL tests are given in English only by an MVA agent and require a scheduled appointment.
All CDL applicants must first pass the CDL General Knowledge Test. Depending on the license class and endorsements, applicants may also need to pass additional tests:
- Class A licenses require the CDL Combination Vehicle Test.
- To drive vehicles with air brakes, the CDL Air Brakes Test is necessary.
- The Hazmat Test is required for driving vehicles needing placarding for hazardous materials.
- Specific tests are also needed for endorsements such as school buses, passenger vehicles, tankers, and double/triples.
If you hold a valid CDL learner’s permit and are upgrading its class (e.g., C to B), taking tests for endorsements, changing license class (C or B to A), adding endorsements (Tanker, Passenger, School Bus), or removing the “L” No Air Brake Vehicles restriction, there is a waiting period. You must wait at least 14 days from the date the corrected permit is issued before you are eligible to take a skills test using the upgraded permit if you choose to test in the newly added class test vehicle or endorsement.
Important Reminders:
Similar to noncommercial licenses, CDL knowledge and skills test passing scores are valid for only six (6) months. Retesting and a new application are required under the same circumstances: failure to obtain a permit or license after passing tests, permit expiration, applying for a new permit, license expiration of one year or more, or out-of-country license transfers exceeding the six-month timeframe.
Test Fees
- There are no separate MVA fees for taking the knowledge test itself. Fees are associated with the issuance of the learner’s permit or driver’s license.
- If you choose to use a foreign language interpreter for noncommercial tests, you are responsible for paying the interpreter’s fees. The MVA does not cover these costs.
- For applicants who are hearing impaired, the MVA will cover interpreter fees and assist in setting up the test appointment. Contact the MVA Customer Service Center for assistance.
Contact Information
MVADriver Services Division
6601 Ritchie Highway, NE
Glen Burnie, MD 21062
For Telephone Inquiries:
MVA Customer Service Center: 1-410-768-7000
TTY/Hearing Impaired: 1-800-492-4575
