Maryland MVA Permit Test FAQ

Maryland requires 88% to pass — that is 22 correct out of 25. You may miss no more than 3 questions. There is no separate sign test — sign questions are mixed throughout.

If you fail, you may retake the test after preparing. Schedule online at mva.maryland.gov. Use the Weak Spots mode on this site to retest only the questions you missed before going back to the MVA.

Applicants under 25 must be at least 15 years and 9 months old to apply for a Type 1 Learner Instructional Permit. Applicants under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian co-sign the application. The Type 1 Permit lasts up to 2 years.

Provisional License (under 18): First 151 days — no passengers under 18 unless immediate family. Curfew: No unsupervised driving between 12 a.m. and 5 a.m. except for work, organized volunteer programs, official school activities, or athletic events. Phone: Permit and Provisional License holders may not use any wireless device — even hands-free — except a 911 emergency call. Hold time: Provisional must be held at least 18 months before a regular driver license.

Maryland uses Zero Tolerance for drivers under 21. Any amount of alcohol detected results in license suspension or revocation, plus possible charges for violating the alcohol restriction.

Drivers 21+: BAC of 0.08 or higher = DUI; license will be suspended. Under 21: any detectable amount = suspension/revocation. A judge can double the fine and jail time if a child is in the vehicle. After conviction, an ignition interlock breathalyzer may be required. Open containers are illegal in the passenger area.

The posted speed limit is the maximum legal speed under ideal conditions. Drivers must reduce speed for school zones, work zones (especially with workers present), heavy traffic, narrow bridges, slippery roads, and near pedestrians or animals. Per NHTSA, a crash on a 65+ mph road is more than twice as likely to result in death than a crash on a 45–50 mph road.

Park as close to the curb as possible and set the parking brake. Never park in the triangular gore zones where a ramp exits the road. Never block a curb cut — even with a disability plate or placard. Use posted signs and curb markings for specific restrictions in your area.

Maryland uses DUI (Driving Under the Influence). At BAC 0.08 or higher the MVA suspends your license. After a DUI conviction, you may have to install an ignition interlock device. Refusing a chemical test under Implied Consent also leads to suspension. Driving with a child in the vehicle while impaired can double the fine and jail time.

All Maryland vehicles must carry valid liability insurance. You must have an insurance ID card (paper or electronic) when driving. Failing to maintain insurance can cost you up to $2,500 per vehicle each year. Confirm current minimum-limit amounts with your insurance company.

Right on red: After a complete stop you may turn right unless a sign prohibits it; you must yield to pedestrians and all other traffic. Left on red: After a complete stop you may turn left from a one-way street onto another one-way street, unless prohibited by a sign. Crossing guard in uniform: follow their directions, even over a regular signal.

Maryland MVA driver licenses are renewed in person, by mail, or online depending on age and renewal cycle. A vision screening is generally required at renewal — visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye and a continuous field of vision of at least 140 degrees. Keep your address current with the MVA. Renew online or schedule an appointment at mva.maryland.gov.