School Licensing & Certification

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) regulates and certifies driving schools in Maryland.

If you own or manage a driving school, this page explains how to:

• Apply for a new school license
• Renew a school license
• Add, delete, or renew school vehicles
• Add or close a branch site
• Update your school’s name or address
• Understand requirements if a driving school closes

All schools must follow Maryland law and MVA regulations.

Licensing a New Driving School

To operate legally in Maryland, a driving school must be licensed and certified by the MVA.

You must submit:

• A completed application
• Required fees
• Proof of required insurance
• Information about instructors and vehicles
• A copy of your business location lease or ownership documents

The MVA will review your application and may inspect your school location and vehicles before approval.

You may not operate until your license is approved.

Renewing Your School License

Driving school licenses must be renewed before they expire.

To renew, you must:

• Submit a renewal application
• Pay the required renewal fee
• Maintain required insurance coverage
• Keep all instructor certifications current

Operating with an expired license is not permitted.

School Vehicles

All vehicles used for instruction must be approved and certified by the MVA.

Adding a Vehicle

When adding a vehicle, you must:

• Submit required vehicle information
• Provide proof of insurance
• Ensure the vehicle meets safety standards
• Complete any required inspections

The vehicle must be approved before being used for instruction.

Deleting a Vehicle

If a vehicle is removed from service, notify the MVA promptly to update your school’s records.

Renewing Vehicle Certifications

Vehicle certifications must remain current.
If certification expires, the vehicle may not be used for instruction.

School Locations (Branch Sites)

Driving schools must receive approval for each instructional location.

Adding a Site

Before operating at a new location, you must:

• Submit a request to the MVA
• Provide the address and site details
• Receive approval

You may not operate at a new site until it is approved.

Closing a Site

If a branch location closes, notify the MVA immediately to update records.

Updating School Information

You must notify the MVA if your school’s:

• Legal name changes
• Trade name changes
• Business address changes
• Mailing address changes

Updates must be submitted in writing with supporting documentation, if required.

Operating under an unapproved name or address may result in compliance action.

If a Driving School Closes

If a driving school stops operating, the owner must:

• Notify the MVA in writing
• Return all required certificates and materials
• Maintain student records as required by law
• Arrange for proper transfer of student records, if applicable

Students must be informed about how to access their records.

Failure to properly close a school may result in administrative action.

Compliance and Recordkeeping

Driving schools must:

• Maintain accurate student records
• Keep required insurance active
• Ensure instructors remain properly certified
• Follow all Maryland statutes and regulations governing driver education schools

The MVA may conduct inspections or audits to ensure compliance.

Need Assistance?

If you have questions about licensing, certification, renewals, vehicle approvals, or school closures, contact the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration’s Driver Instructional Services unit.

Apply for a new license, submit updates, or request assistance by contacting the MVA today.