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MDOT Motor Vehicle Administration

Instructor Licensing & Certification

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) licenses and certifies driving instructors in Maryland.

You must be properly licensed and certified before teaching driver education. This page explains how to become an instructor, renew your license, and understand disqualification rules.

Becoming a Licensed Driving Instructor

To teach driver education, you must hold a valid Instructor License issued by the MVA.

You must:

  • Submit a completed application
  • Pay required fees
  • Meet age and experience requirements
  • Complete required training
  • Pass any required testing
  • Provide proof of a valid driver’s license
  • Complete required background checks

You may not provide instruction until your license has been approved and issued.

The MVA reviews all applications and may request additional documentation.

Instructor Certification Requirements

In addition to being licensed, instructors must:

  • Be affiliated with a licensed driving school
  • Maintain required qualifications
  • Comply with all Maryland statutes and regulations governing driver education

Driving schools are responsible for ensuring their instructors are properly certified before allowing them to teach.

Renewing Your Instructor License

Instructor licenses must be renewed before they expire.

To renew, you must:

  • Submit a renewal application
  • Pay the renewal fee
  • Maintain eligibility requirements
  • Complete any required continuing education or updates

If your license expires, you may not teach until it is reinstated.

Instructor Disqualification

An instructor may be disqualified, suspended, or revoked if they:

  • Fail to meet licensing requirements
  • Violate Maryland laws or regulations
  • Lose required driving privileges
  • Provide false or misleading information
  • Engage in misconduct

If disqualified, the instructor may not provide driver education services.

The MVA will notify the instructor and school of any suspension, revocation, or denial.

Maintaining Compliance

Licensed instructors must:

  • Keep contact information current
  • Maintain a valid driver’s license
  • Follow all instructional standards
  • Comply with inspection or audit requests

Failure to comply may result in administrative action.

Need Help?

For questions about instructor licensing, certification, renewal, or eligibility, contact the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration.

Apply for an instructor license, renew your certification, or contact the MVA for assistance today.