PassMyDMV

Maryland DMV Practice Test

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), a division of the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT), oversees driver licensing and vehicle registration throughout the state. Maryland's learner's permit program requires applicants to be at least 15 years and 9 months old, providing early opportunities for teenagers to begin their driving journey. The state's written knowledge test is concise but challenging, with 25 questions requiring an 88% passing score, making it one of the more rigorous state tests. Maryland has invested heavily in technology through its myMVA online portal, allowing residents to complete over 60 common licensing transactions from home without visiting an office. The MVA operates service centers statewide and offers various services including real-time license information, appointment scheduling, and the recently launched Maryland Mobile ID (mDL) feature for smartphones. Whether you're a teenager, new resident, or commercial driver, Maryland provides clear pathways to licensing with reasonable fees and accessible service centers throughout the state.

Available Maryland practice tests

What's on the Maryland written test

When you schedule your Maryland MVA permit test appointment (highly recommended to avoid long wait times), you'll arrive at a local MVA service center with your required identification and documentation. You'll check in and be directed to a computer terminal where you'll take your 25-question written knowledge test. The test covers Maryland traffic laws, safe driving practices, road sign identification, and right-of-way rules from the Maryland Driver's Manual. Unlike some states, Maryland does not enforce a strict time limit, allowing you to work at a comfortable pace. You'll answer multiple-choice questions presented on screen, with the ability to review your answers before submitting. After completing the test, you'll receive your score immediately. If you pass with 88% or higher, you can move forward with your permit application. The entire testing process typically takes 30 to 45 minutes from check-in to completion. If you don't pass, you can schedule another appointment, though you must wait one business day and pay the retake fee. Maryland strongly encourages online appointment scheduling through myMVA to reduce your in-person waiting time.

Car / standard license

The Maryland learner's permit written test consists of 25 multiple-choice questions covering traffic laws, safe driving practices, road signs, and right-of-way rules. You must score at least 88% (22 out of 25 correct) to pass. The learner's permit fee is $65. Minimum age is 15 years and 9 months old. The test is administered at MVA service centers. If you fail, you must wait one business day and pay the retake fee before attempting again. You have up to three attempts within a 90-day application window.

Motorcycle endorsement

Maryland offers motorcycle licensing through a Class M endorsement. While specific question counts vary, the motorcycle test covers road safety specific to motorcycle operation, hazard awareness, and traffic laws adapted for two-wheeled vehicles. Maryland's comprehensive motorcycle licensing program includes knowledge testing and skills evaluation. Testing is available at designated MVA service centers, and applicants should contact their local center for specific details about motorcycle endorsement requirements and fees.

Commercial driver license (CDL)

Maryland's commercial driver license program requires passing a written knowledge test with a minimum score of 80%. Applicants must first obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) for at least 14 days before taking the skills test. The CDL permit fee is $90 (which includes knowledge and skills testing fees). All CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) before they can take the skills test. Maryland offers various CDL endorsements including hazmat, tanker, and passenger vehicle certifications. If you fail your first attempt, you can test again the next day; subsequent failures require a 7-day waiting period.

Study tips for the Maryland written test

  • Download and study the official Maryland Driver's Manual thoroughly from the MVA website at mva.maryland.gov.
  • Maryland-specific challenge: The 88% passing score is higher than most states—focus on mastering every topic, not just passing.
  • Take multiple practice tests online to build familiarity with the 25-question format and track your progress.
  • Maryland-specific tip: Pay particular attention to road sign shapes, colors, and meanings, as these are heavily tested and essential for safe driving.
  • Review right-of-way rules extensively, including complex intersection scenarios and pedestrian crossings, which are common test topics.
  • Study Maryland's unique traffic laws and regulations, including state-specific speed limits and safety requirements.
  • Create study schedules that space out your learning over several weeks rather than cramming, which improves long-term retention.
  • Visit an MVA service center to pick up free study materials or access online guides at mva.maryland.gov to ensure accuracy of current regulations.

More Maryland resources

Official agency: Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), MDOT.

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the Maryland permit test?
The Maryland learner's permit written test consists of 25 multiple-choice questions covering traffic laws, safe driving, road signs, and right-of-way rules.
What's the passing score for the Maryland written test?
You must score at least 88% on the Maryland permit test, which means answering 22 out of 25 questions correctly.
How much does the Maryland written knowledge test cost?
The Maryland learner's permit fee is $65. If you need to retake the test, you'll pay an additional retake fee each time.
How old do I have to be to take the Maryland permit test?
You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old to apply for a learner's permit and take the written knowledge test in Maryland.
Can I take the Maryland DMV test in Spanish or other languages?
The Maryland MVA website (mva.maryland.gov) provides information about language availability. Contact your local MVA service center to confirm whether tests are offered in languages other than English.
How many times can I retake the Maryland written test?
You can attempt the Maryland permit test up to three times within a 90-day application period. You must wait one business day between attempts after the first failure, and pay a retake fee for each additional attempt.
Is the Maryland permit test online or in person?
The Maryland permit test is administered in person at MVA service centers located throughout the state. Tests are given on computer terminals at the office location.
What documents do I need to bring to the Maryland DMV?
You need to bring valid identification (such as a passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. Contact your local MVA service center or visit mva.maryland.gov for a complete and current list of acceptable documents.

Practice tests for other states