Old Line State Driver: Your Complete Guide to a Maryland Driver's License

Earning a driver's license in the Old Line State is a major milestone, unlocking the freedom to explore everything from the Chesapeake Bay to the Appalachian Mountains. The journey to becoming a licensed driver involves several key stages managed by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA).

This comprehensive guide will serve as your roadmap, breaking down Maryland's "Rookie Driver" Graduated Licensing System (GLS) for teens and outlining the process for adults, ensuring you arrive at the MVA confident and prepared for every step.

For Teen Drivers (Under 18): The "Rookie Driver" Graduated Licensing System (GLS)

To ensure young drivers gain experience in a safe, controlled manner, Maryland has a GLS program. This system is designed to gradually introduce teens to more complex driving situations as they gain skills and maturity.

Step 1: Start with Driver's Education

The journey in Maryland begins with driver education. This is a mandatory first step for all applicants under 18.

• Eligibility: You must be at least 15 years old to enroll in a state-approved driver education course.
• Course Requirements: The course must include 30 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training with a certified instructor. Upon completion, you will receive an official completion certificate.

Step 2: The Learner's Permit

Once you're enrolled in driver's ed, you can apply for your learner's permit.

Who is eligible?

• You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old.

How to get your Learner's Permit:

1. Gather Your Documents: You will need to bring several key original documents to the MVA, including proof of identity (like a birth certificate), Social Security card, and two proofs of Maryland residency. This is a crucial step for getting a REAL ID.
2. Visit an MVA Branch: You must apply in person. It's highly recommended to schedule an appointment online. At your visit, you will:
   • Submit your application and all required documents.
   • Have a parent or legal guardian present to co-sign the application.
   • Pay the required permit fee.
   • Pass a vision screening.
3. Pass the Written Knowledge Test: You must pass a 25-question written test based on the "Maryland Driver's Manual." You must answer at least 22 questions correctly (an 88% score) to pass.

Rules of the Road with a Learner's Permit:

• You must hold the permit for a minimum of nine months, conviction-free, before you can apply for a provisional license.
• You must always be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old, has held their license for at least three years, and is seated in the front passenger seat.
• You must log 60 hours of supervised driving, including at least 10 hours at night. This must be documented in a "Practice and Skills Log" and certified by your parent or guardian.

Step 3: The Provisional License

After holding your permit for nine months, completing driver's ed, and logging your practice hours, you are eligible for a provisional license.

Who is eligible?

• You must be at least 16 years and 6 months old.
• You must have held your learner's permit for at least nine months, conviction-free.

How to get your Provisional License:

The final step is to pass the driving skills test (road test). Once you pass, you will be issued your provisional license.

GLS Restrictions on a Provisional License:

• Nighttime Curfew: You cannot drive between 12:00 a.m. (midnight) and 5 a.m. unless supervised or for work, school, or an emergency.
• Passenger Restrictions: For the first five months (151 days), you are not permitted to have any passengers under the age of 18, unless they are immediate family members.
• Cell Phone Ban: You are prohibited from using a mobile phone while driving.

These restrictions remain in place for the entire 18-month provisional period, or until you turn 18.

For Drivers 18 and Over

If you are 18 or older and applying for your first Maryland license, the process is more direct.

1. Driver's Education (Ages 18-24): If you are under 25, you must complete a driver's education course.
2. Visit an MVA Branch: Make an appointment and bring your original documents for a REAL ID.
3. Pass the Tests: You must pass the vision screening and the written knowledge test. You will then be issued a learner's permit.
4. Practice Driving: You must hold the permit for a minimum of 60 days.
5. Take the Road Test: Once you pass the driving test, you'll be issued your full license.

New to Maryland? Transferring Your License

If you move to Maryland and hold a valid driver's license from another U.S. state, you must obtain a Maryland license within 60 days of establishing residency.

• Make an appointment at an MVA branch.
• Surrender your out-of-state license.
• Provide full documentation for a REAL ID.
• Pass a vision screening.
• The written test and road test are waived if your out-of-state license is valid and not expired.

By understanding these steps and preparing for each one, you can successfully navigate the process and earn the privilege of driving in the Old Line State.