Teens & New Drivers
Welcome to the new MVA.Maryland.gov!
You’ve reached the new website for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Adminstration. Thanks for visiting!
Getting your driver’s license is an exciting milestone—and an important responsibility.
Steps to getting your driver's license
Maryland uses a graduated licensing process, which means you'll build your skills and privileges in stages. Here's how the process works:
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Learner's permit
Start by studying Maryland's rules of the road and passing your knowledge test. With a learner's permit, you can practice driving on public roads — but only with a licensed supervising driver in the car.
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Driver’s education
With your learner's permit in hand, you're ready for driver's education. You'll build the knowledge and skills to drive safely and confidently. Completing an approved course is required before you can take your behind-the-wheel test and get a provisional license.
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Provisional license
After completing driver's education and practice hours, you can take a behind-the-wheel driving test. Pass — and meet a few other requirements — and you'll receive a provisional license, which lets you drive independently with some restrictions.
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Full license
When you meet all the requirements, the MVA automatically upgrades your provisional license — no trip to the MVA needed. You'll receive a card in the mail showing your new status to carry until your license renews.
Permit & license fees
Knowing what to expect to pay can help you plan ahead. Find learner's permit and driver's license fees.