Learner's Permit

Maryland Learner’s Permit: How to Get Started

A learner’s permit lets a new driver begin learning how to drive. You must have a valid learner’s permit before you start behind-the-wheel driver education or drive on Maryland roads.

This guide explains who can apply, what you need, and what to do next.
 

Who Can Apply

You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old to apply for a Maryland learner’s permit.

What You Need to Bring

You must bring documents that prove who you are and meet school and legal requirements.

If You Are Under 16

You must also show proof of parental relationship or dependency.

You need one of these school forms:

Option 1:
Verification of Identity and/or School Attendance (Form DL-300)

• Your school or county home school coordinator must complete this.
• The form must be in a sealed, unopened envelope from the school.

OR

Option 2:
Verification of Identity and/or School Attendance by Parent or Guardian (Form DL-300A)

• This form must be co-signed by a parent or guardian.
• You must also bring proof of parental relationship or dependency, such as a tax return or health insurance card/policy.

Proof of Identity

You must bring Proof of Identity.

If you use a U.S. passport as proof, you must also bring proof of parental relationship or dependency (such as a tax return or health insurance card/policy).

Proof of Social Security

You must bring Proof of Social Security.

Need Help Choosing Documents?

For a full list of accepted documents and to make your appointment, visit the Online Document Guide.

Special Rule: Children in DSS Custody or Guardianship

If the minor is under the custody or guardianship of a local Department of Social Services (DSS):

• The Director of the Department or the Director’s Designee (for example, a social worker) may co-sign the application.
• They must bring:
  • Their State ID card, and
  • An original court document (with seal) showing the minor’s custody or guardianship with DSS.

Tests You Must Take

You must pass:

• Vision screening
• Knowledge Test
  • Applicants need to study the Maryland Driver’s Manual and can also practice with the Maryland Online Driver Test Tutorial

Schedule an Appointment 

To complete your Learner’s Permit application, you must make an appointment at any of the MVA's full-service offices. You can complete the pre-application and make your appointment online with myMVA.
 

After completing your appointment, your permit will be mailed to you. 

If Your Learner’s Permit Expires

If your permit expires, or you do not pass the required skills tests before it expires, you must reapply.

To get a new permit, you must:

• Pass the vision and knowledge tests again
• Pay the required fees
• Have your parent/guardian co-sign if you are a minor
• Start the pre-application on myMVA and make a new appointment

Rules and Restrictions for Learner’s Permit Holders

Learner’s permit holders are prohibited from using a cell phone, even with Bluetooth or hands-free devices, while operating a motor vehicle. The only exception is to make an emergency 911 call. Violations may result in a suspension of your driving privilege.

When you drive, you must be accompanied by a qualified supervising driver who is at least 21 years old and has held a license for at least 3 years. This person must sit in the front passenger seat at all times, and there may be no other front-seat passengers.

Practice Driving and the Required Log

A qualified supervising driver (parent, guardian, or mentor) must complete the practice skills log in the Rookie Driver Practice Guide or the Rookie Driver Practice Guide (Spanish). This guide is issued by the MVA with every learner’s permit.

When you arrive for your driving skills test appointment, you must bring your unexpired Maryland learner’s permit and the completed certification page from the Practice Guide. You must also meet the minimum practice hours required for your age group.

How Long You Must Hold Your Permit?

The minimum time you must hold a learner’s permit before a provisional license can be issued depends on your age and education status:

If a driver with a learner’s permit is convicted of or granted Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for a moving violation, they must hold the permit for at least 9 months from the date of the violation. They must also meet all requirements for a provisional license before they can take a driving skills test.

If an applicant gets their first Maryland learner’s permit before age 25 and then turns 25, the MVA will allow the applicant to take a driving skills test once the permit has been held for at least 45 days. The 45 days may include time held before turning 25. The applicant must have completed at least 14 hours of supervised driving and the required driver education program, and an eligible supervising driver must have completed the certification page in the practice log.

Information for Parents and Guardians: 

• If a new driver under 18 is cited for a moving violation, the MVA will notify the co-signer.
• Drivers under 18 may have their licenses suspended if the parent, guardian, or co-signer withdraws their consent. Contact the MVA for details.
• Your driving skills test for a provisional license must be scheduled in advance. Go to here to schedule an appointment.
• Maryland requires all registered vehicle owners to carry liability insurance, uninsured motorist, and personal injury protection (PIP) coverage.