The vision screening, knowledge test and skills test

Key points

1. The knowledge test has 25 questions and you get 20 minutes to finish it.

   Source: Handbook p. 7

   “There are 25 questions on the test. You will have 20 minutes to take the test.”
   Maryland Driver's Manual, Handbook p. 7

2. The MVA says this manual includes all the information you will be tested on.

   Source: Handbook p. 7

   “This manual includes all the information you will be tested on. You take the knowledge test at an MVA location.”
   Maryland Driver's Manual, Handbook p. 7

3. To qualify you need binocular vision and at least 20/40 in each eye.

   Source: Handbook p. 7

   “Binocular vision. Visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye.”
   Maryland Driver's Manual, Handbook p. 7

4. You also need a continuous field of vision of at least 140 degrees.

   Source: Handbook p. 7

   “A continuous field of vision of at least 140 degrees.”
   Maryland Driver's Manual, Handbook p. 7

5. If you need glasses or contacts to meet the vision rules, you must always wear them when you drive.

   Source: Handbook p. 7

   “If you need glasses or contact lenses to meet these requirements, you must always wear them when you drive.”
   Maryland Driver's Manual, Handbook p. 7

6. The skills test covers driving on public roads and a special course at the test site.

   Source: Handbook p. 7

   “The test includes driving on public roads and a special course at the testing location.”
   Maryland Driver's Manual, Handbook p. 7

7. The test vehicle needs current plates and registration, and you need proof it is insured.

   Source: Handbook p. 8

   “The vehicle must have up-to-date license plates and registration. You must have proof that the vehicle is insured.”
   Maryland Driver's Manual, Handbook p. 8

8. The test vehicle must have at least a half tank of gas and no windshield cracks that block your view.

   Source: Handbook p. 8

   “Have no cracks or other things on the windshield that could affect your ability to see. Have at least a half tank of gas.”
   Maryland Driver's Manual, Handbook p. 8

Numbers to know

3 questions from the Maryland practice test

1. 1. How many questions are on Maryland's knowledge test, and how much time is provided?

   1. 25 questions in 20 minutes
   2. 20 questions in 15 minutes
   3. 15 questions in 10 minutes
   4. 30 questions in 30 minutes
   Show answer

   25 questions in 20 minutes. The Maryland knowledge test contains 25 questions and gives the applicant 20 minutes. The other pairs change either the question count, the time limit, or both. A useful study cue is to remember this as a compact timed test, not an open-ended examination. The manual also directs applicants to study all of its information because the test covers the material presented there. Budget the available minutes across the entire test instead of lingering on one item.

2. 2. What vision does Maryland require to qualify for a driver's license?

   1. 20/20 in one eye
   2. Binocular vision, at least 20/40 in each eye, and a continuous field of vision of at least 140 degrees
   3. 20/70 in either eye with 90 degrees
   4. Any vision with corrective lenses
   Show answer

   Binocular vision, at least 20/40 in each eye, and a continuous field of vision of at least 140 degrees. To qualify for a Maryland driver's license the applicant must have binocular vision, visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye, and a continuous field of vision of at least 140 degrees. The MVA or your eye doctor can do the screening and explain the standard. If glasses or contact lenses are needed to meet it, you must always wear them when you drive, and the license carries that restriction.

3. 3. Where does the Maryland driving skills test take place?

   1. Only on a closed course with no public-road driving
   2. Inside an MVA office using a simulator
   3. Only in the applicant's neighborhood
   4. On public roads and a special course at the testing location
   Show answer

   On public roads and a special course at the testing location. Maryland's skills test checks practical driving in two settings: public roads and a special course at the testing location. It is not limited to a simulator, an applicant's neighborhood, or a closed course that excludes traffic-road skills. Prepare for both ordinary roadway decisions and the controlled exercises required at the test site. This combination tests both everyday traffic judgment and precise vehicle control.

Source: the Maryland Driver's Manual, Section 1: Driving Tests Requirements. This lesson is a plain English summary, not the law itself; where it differs, the manual and the statute govern. Last checked 2026-09-27.