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.

How to Get Your Maryland Driver License: 2026 Step-by-Step Guide

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.

1. Eligibility — who can apply

Maryland's learner's permit is available to anyone at least 15 years and 9 months old—younger than most states. This early eligibility gives teenagers a head start on their driving journey. To be eligible, you must be a Maryland resident with valid identification and proof of Social Security number. If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present during the permit application and provide consent. Maryland's graduated licensing program includes specific restrictions for teen drivers, so understanding these requirements is important for first-time applicants. Adults relocating to Maryland can apply for a learner's permit and follow the same pathway as first-time drivers. If you already hold a valid driver license from another state, you may be eligible for a license transfer without retaking the written test, though a vision screening and possibly a road test may still be required depending on your current license status. Maryland's licensing structure accommodates all types of applicants—beginners, transfers, and commercial drivers—with clear pathways for each.

2. Documents you'll need

When you visit an MVA service center for your learner's permit test, bring several required documents. First, you'll need valid identification such as a passport, birth certificate, or state ID. Second, bring proof of Social Security number—you can provide your Social Security card, a tax return, W-2 form, or other official document with your SSN. Third, provide proof of residency with a document like a lease agreement, utility bill, bank statement, or official mail addressed to you in Maryland. If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian must accompany you with their identification. The MVA website at mva.maryland.gov provides a current and complete list of acceptable documents, as requirements may change. Contact your local MVA service center ahead of time if you have questions about your specific documents to ensure a smooth appointment.

3. The Maryland written knowledge test

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—this is one of the highest passing scores in the nation. The learner's permit fee is $65. The test is administered at MVA service centers on a computer terminal. Unlike some states, Maryland does not enforce a strict time limit, allowing you to work at a comfortable pace through each question. 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. PassMyDMV's free 25-question sampler helps you familiarize yourself with Maryland's specific test format and content requirements.

4. Studying strategies that actually work

Maryland's high 88% passing score requires focused, thorough study. Download and study the official Maryland Driver's Manual thoroughly from the MVA website at mva.maryland.gov—missing even one or two questions will cause failure. The 88% passing score is higher than most states, so 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 carefully. 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. PassMyDMV's manual viewer provides targeted review of specific chapters, helping you focus on weaker topics rather than reviewing material you've already mastered.

5. The behind-the-wheel road test

After passing your written knowledge test and completing the required supervised driving period on your learner's permit, you're ready for the road test. Maryland's road test is administered by MVA examiners and typically takes 20 to 30 minutes. The test evaluates your ability to handle real-world driving situations, including basic vehicle control, safe lane changes, turns, parking, and responses to traffic signals and signs. Examiners assess your confidence, safety awareness, and ability to follow traffic laws. During the test, the examiner will direct you where to drive, and you must demonstrate competence in various driving scenarios. Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition before the test—all lights, brakes, wipers, mirrors, and seat belts must function properly. Maryland requires a current vehicle inspection, so obtain this before scheduling your road test. Practice extensively with your learner's permit; experienced drivers who have logged many supervised driving hours tend to pass on their first attempt. Pay particular attention to Maryland's specific driving conditions and traffic patterns.

6. Costs & fees, broken down

Maryland's driver licensing fees are reasonable and straightforward. The learner's permit fee is $65 and includes the written test. If you need to retake the written test, you'll pay an additional retake fee each time (amount varies; check with your local MVA service center). Road test fees are set by the MVA; confirm the exact amount when scheduling. Once you pass both the written knowledge test and road test, your Maryland Class E license is valid for 5 years if you're under 65, or longer if you're older. License renewal fees differ from initial licensing fees, so budget accordingly when your renewal date approaches. Maryland's myMVA online portal allows you to pay fees, schedule appointments, and renew licenses online, which can reduce your in-person wait time and associated transaction costs. The $65 permit fee is notably higher than some states but reflects the comprehensive nature of Maryland's licensing system.

7. Common reasons people fail

Understanding common failure points helps you avoid them on test day. The biggest challenge on Maryland's test is the 88% passing score—you simply cannot miss more than 3 out of 25 questions. Many applicants struggle with road sign identification, and a few missed signs on Maryland's test can mean the difference between passing and failing. Some test-takers fail because they don't fully understand Maryland-specific traffic rules and regulations, which vary from their home state if they're relocating. Right-of-way questions in complex intersection scenarios also trip up many applicants. On the road test, common failures include poor vehicle control, failure to observe traffic signals, unsafe lane changes, and not using mirrors and blind-spot checks. Test anxiety can also cause normally-confident drivers to make careless mistakes. If you fail and retake the test, PassMyDMV's retake-wrong mode lets you review only the questions you missed, allowing you to focus study time on actual weak areas. Don't rush through questions—take your time, even though there's no time limit, and carefully consider each answer choice.

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.

Start practicing now

Open the Maryland practice test — pick car, motorcycle, or CDL, then drill quick quizzes or full simulated exams. Free 25-question sample per track.

Read the official Maryland driver manual with deep-link citations on every practice question.