Getting your Maryland learner permit

By the end of this topic you can

• You can list the documents to bring to the MVA.
• You can explain who must co-sign an application for an applicant under 18.
• You can describe the vision standard for a Maryland license.
• You can describe the extra form needed if you are under 16.
• You can explain who may supervise you once you have the permit.

What you need to know and understand

• You must be at least 15 years 9 months old.
• Bring proof of age and name, proof of lawful status if born outside the U.S., your Social Security number (or proof you are not eligible) and two proofs of Maryland residence.
• Documents must be originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. Photocopies and notarized copies are not accepted.
• Under 18, a parent or legal guardian must co-sign the application.
• Under 16, you need a completed Learner's Permit School Attendance Certification form (DL-300).
• The vision standard is binocular vision, at least 20/40 in each eye and a 140-degree field of vision.
• A supervisor must be at least 21, licensed for at least 3 years and seated beside you.

Your application checklist

1. Make an appointment at an MVA branch.
2. Gather original documents: proof of age with your full name (such as a birth certificate or passport), lawful status if born outside the U.S., your Social Security number, and two proofs that you live in Maryland.
3. If you are under 18, bring your parent or guardian to co-sign, with proof of the relationship such as a birth certificate showing their name.
4. If you are under 16, bring the completed DL-300 school attendance form.
5. Pass the vision screening and the knowledge test at the branch.
6. Pay the fee. Fees change, so check the current amount on the MVA fee page before you go.

School attendance and co-signers

Maryland links early permits to school attendance. Under 16, the MVA may refuse a permit if your record shows more than 10 unexcused absences in the prior semester.

If you have no parent or guardian, a spouse who is 18 or older can co-sign, or another responsible adult with proof such as emancipation papers. A co-signer can later ask the MVA in writing to cancel a minor's license.

Driving on your permit

Your supervising driver must be at least 21, licensed for at least 3 years to drive the same class of vehicle, and seated beside you. They are the only person allowed in the front seat. Driving on a permit without a supervisor carries 5 points.

If you are under 18, you may not use any phone while driving, not even hands-free, except to call 911. Our Maryland permit test guide explains the knowledge test in more depth.

Common mistakes

• Bringing photocopies. The MVA only accepts originals or certified copies.
• Bringing only one proof of address. You need two documents showing you live in Maryland.
• Arriving without the co-signing parent. Under 18, they must sign with you.
• Letting a friend in the front seat while you practice. Only the supervising driver may sit there.

Test yourself: Getting your Maryland learner permit

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Maryland Permit Test
• How to Get a Driver’s License in Maryland
• Maryland Permit Practice Test