Maryland DMV: age, fees, test facts

Getting a license in Maryland

Getting your first permit

In Maryland, the minimum permit age is 15 years and 9 months old. When you apply for a permit or license, bring: proof of identity, required identification, and learner permit application materials for test day. Use the Locations tool on mva.maryland.gov to find nearest branch/kiosk; appointments recommended and can be booked via Appointments & Online Services page.

Fees, retakes, and practice hours

$0 MVA fee for the knowledge test; permit or license issuance fees still apply. If you fail the knowledge test: next business day after the first failure if an appointment is available; seven calendar days after two or more failures. Before the road test, the state requires 60 supervised practice hours, including at least 10 nighttime hours, for most drivers under 25; 14 hours including 3 nighttime hours if age 25 or older.

REAL ID, motorcycle, and CDL

REAL ID required (age 18+) to fly or enter federal facilities as of May 7, 2025; needs one proof of age/identity, one SSN proof, two MD residency proofs. Maryland over 99% compliant. For a motorcycle license: at least 16 years old for Class M motorcycle license; under 18 must complete Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program Basic Rider Course; knowledge test plus skills test or Fast Track course. For a commercial license (CDL): 18 for intrastate only (K restriction, no interstate/hazmat/passengers); 21 for interstate/hazmat/passenger. Requires 14-day CLP hold, knowledge+skills tests, DOT medical cert, ELDT for Class A/B.

The Maryland bank has 78 questions across 7 topics