How to Get Your Maryland Learner’s Permit
Verified by Steven Litvintchouk
Methodology & Editorial PolicyHow to study (step by step)
- Start your application
At age 15 years, 9 months or older, begin your application online with the Maryland MVA. (Parental/guardian consent required if under 18. Proof of secondary school attendance or the equivalent required if under 16.)
- Take the Diagnostic Test
Check your starting level so you know what to focus on first.
- Practice Tests (At least 2–3 sets)
Complete at least 2–3 sets. Short 10-minute sessions tend to work best.
- Clear your mistakes
Open the Challenge Bank and fix every missed question, then re-test it.
- Practice exam simulator
Keep practicing until you’re consistently scoring 88% or higher.
- 3–5 short study sessions per week
- 80–120 total practice questions
MD MVA permit test - what to expect
The Maryland permit test has 25 questions. You must get 22 correct (88%) to pass.
- Where: Any Maryland MVA office (find locations)
- Bring: ID + SSN + residency proof + permit/license fee (see checklist)
- If you fail: Retake after 1 day.
- Commonly missed: safe following distance (3-second rule), road sign recognition (warning, regulatory, and guide signs).