USA Maryland Driver License

Get Your Maryland Driver License – Fast, Simple, and Step-by-Step

New to Maryland? Ready to hit the road? Whether you’re a first-time driver or moving from another state or country, getting your Maryland Driver License (DL) is easier when you know what to expect. Here’s everything you need to get started – all in one place.

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Who Needs a Maryland Driver License?

If you live in Maryland and plan to drive, state law requires you to get a Maryland driver license. New residents must transfer their license within 60 days of moving.

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Maryland Driver License Options

• ✅ Learner’s Permit – Start here if you’re learning to drive (15 years, 9 months or older)
• ✅ Provisional License – For new drivers under age 18 or with less than 18 months of experience
• ✅ Full License (Class C) – Standard license for most drivers
• ✅ Commercial (CDL) – For buses, trucks, and commercial vehicles
• ✅ Motorcycle (Class M) – Required for riding motorcycles
• ✅ Maryland ID Card – If you don’t drive but need valid ID

Maryland also issues REAL ID licenses that meet federal travel ID requirements.

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How to Apply – Quick Overview

Step 1: Start Online
Create an account at myMVA to begin the process, book appointments, and upload documents.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents
You’ll need:

• Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or passport)
• Social Security card (or proof of ineligibility)
• Two pieces of Maryland residency (e.g., lease, utility bill)
• Legal presence documents (if applicable)

✅ Use the REAL ID Document Guide to check exactly what you need.

Step 3: Pass the Tests

• ✅ Vision Test
• ✅ Written Knowledge Test
• ✅ Road Skills Test (required for first-time applicants)

Step 4: Pay the Fees

• Learner’s Permit: $50
• Full License: $72 (valid for 5 to 8 years)

Step 5: Get Your License
You’ll get a temporary license on the spot. Your official plastic license will arrive in the mail within 10 business days.

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New to Maryland? Transferring a License?

Just moved to Maryland from another U.S. state?
Here’s what you need:

• Your valid out-of-state license
• Required identity and residency documents
• Vision test only (no written or road tests if your license is valid)

🕒 Must transfer your license within 60 days.

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International Drivers

Are you from another country? You can use your foreign license temporarily, but long-term residents must apply for a Maryland license.

You’ll need to:

• Show immigration documents (visa, I-94, etc.)
• Prove Maryland residency
• Take the written, vision, and road tests
• Apply for a Social Security Number or get an SSA ineligibility letter

Note: An International Driving Permit (IDP) helps, but it’s not a substitute for a Maryland license.

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What Is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID-compliant license has a ⭐ star in the top corner and is required starting May 7, 2025, to:

• Fly within the U.S.
• Enter federal buildings or military bases

✅ Maryland offers Real ID as the default option when you bring the right documents. Use this checklist to upgrade.

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Why It Matters

• ✔ Required to legally drive in Maryland
• ✔ Needed to register and insure a vehicle
• ✔ Serves as official ID for jobs, travel, and more
• ✔ Real ID meets federal travel rules

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Tips for a Smooth Process

• Schedule your appointment in advance at mva.maryland.gov
• Study the Driver’s Manual before taking the written test
• Be sure all documents are original — no photocopies allowed

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