South · Learner’s Instructional Permit
How to get your learner’s permit in Maryland
Maryland’s Rookie Driver program starts with a learner’s instructional permit at 15 years 9 months. Teens log 60 practice hours and hold the permit 9 months before the provisional license.
Maryland permit requirements at a glance
| Minimum age | 15 years, 9 months |
|---|---|
| Official name | Learner’s Instructional Permit |
| Supervised practice | 60 hours, including 10 at night |
| Minimum holding period | 9 months (for applicants under 25) |
| Issuing agency | Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) (official source ↗) |
How easy is it to get licensed in Maryland?
Our Ease Score weighs starting age, practice hours, and waiting time. See how it works & the full 50-state ranking →
- Starting age
- 15 years, 9 months
- Practice hours
- 60 hours
- Waiting time
- 9 months
Longer bars = easier. Overall: 18/100. Easiest in the South: Arkansas (#1) . Nationally, Arkansas is #1 and Maryland is #50.
Did you know? Wyoming makes you hold the permit for just 10 days — the next-shortest wait is 12× longer. See for yourself →
⏳ Count down to your Maryland permit date · ⚔️ Compare Maryland with another state · 📝 Track your practice hours
Steps to get your permit in Maryland
- Confirm you’re eligible. You must be at least 15 years, 9 months . If you’re under 18, a parent or legal guardian will need to sign your application.
- Study the official Maryland driver manual. The knowledge test is based on it — download it free from the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) site. Focus on road signs, right-of-way, and Maryland’s specific teen-driving (GDL) restrictions.
- Gather your documents. Plan on proof of identity (certified birth certificate or valid passport), your Social Security number, two proofs of Maryland residency, and — in many states — proof of school enrollment. The exact list is on the official Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) page.
- Apply, pass the vision screening, and take the knowledge test. Most offices recommend or require an appointment, and a fee applies at application — check current fees on the official site, as they change periodically.
- Practice with a qualifying supervising driver. Maryland requires 60 hours, including 10 at night. Keep a signed log — you'll certify it later.
- Hold your permit for the required period. In Maryland, that's 9 months (for applicants under 25). Then schedule your road test for the next license stage.
Maryland learner’s permit FAQ
How old do you have to be to get a learner's permit in Maryland?
The minimum age is 15 years, 9 months. Maryland calls this credential the Learner’s Instructional Permit.
How many supervised driving hours does Maryland require?
Maryland requires 60 hours, including 10 at night. A parent, guardian, or qualifying licensed adult must certify the hours.
How long do you have to hold a learner's permit in Maryland?
The minimum holding period is 9 months (for applicants under 25) before you can move to the next license stage.
Can you drive alone with a learner's permit in Maryland?
No. In every US state, a permit holder must be supervised by a qualifying licensed adult seated in the front passenger seat. Driving alone on a permit can lead to citations and can delay your license.
Is Maryland an easy state to get licensed in?
Maryland ranks #50 of 50 on our Ease Score (18/100), which weighs starting age, required practice hours, and the permit waiting period. Arkansas is the easiest state in the nation and Maryland is the toughest.