What to Bring to Your MD Permit Test
Last updated 2026-07-31
Schedule an appointment first
Maryland's knowledge test, vision screening, and driving skills test are all given at an MVA branch, and the manual directs applicants to make an appointment beforehand rather than walking in. You can schedule one at mva.maryland.gov or by calling 410-768-7000 (or 1-800-492-4575 for TTY).
Bringing the right documents the first time matters, since the MVA won't accept photocopies, notarized copies, or documents with changed or erased information -- an incomplete document set on test day usually means rescheduling the entire visit.
The documents you need
You'll need a document proving your age and full legal name (a birth certificate or passport works), a document proving lawful status if you were born outside the United States, your Social Security number (or proof you're not eligible for one), and two separate documents proving you live in Maryland.
If you're under 18, a parent or legal guardian must come with you to co-sign the application. If you're under 16 specifically, you'll also need a completed Learner's Permit School Attendance Certification form (DL-300).
The fee and what it covers
A first-time Type 1 Learner's Permit costs $65 and, notably, that single fee already covers the eventual conversion to a full Driver's License later in the process -- you won't pay a separate fee when the MVA automatically upgrades your Provisional License. A Type 2 permit, for a driver who already holds a license and wants a different vehicle class, costs $45.
These figures come from the MVA's own published fee schedule rather than the Driver's Manual itself, which doesn't include a fee table -- worth double-checking at mva.maryland.gov before your appointment in case fees have changed since.
The knowledge test and vision screening
The knowledge test itself is 25 questions, and you'll have 20 minutes to complete it. It covers motor vehicle laws, safe driving practices, and traffic signs -- the manual states plainly that it includes all the information you need to pass, and recommends also using the MVA's Online Driver Test Tutorial to practice beforehand.
You'll also need to pass a vision screening showing binocular vision, at least 20/40 visual acuity in each eye, and a continuous field of vision of at least 140 degrees. If you need glasses or contacts to meet that standard, wear them to your appointment -- and know that your license will be marked to require them going forward.
What you won't need on day one
You don't need a completed Practice and Skills Log or finished driver education on the day you apply for your permit -- those come later, while you're holding the permit and preparing for the Provisional License step. Day one is about the vision screening and the knowledge test.
See our guide on Maryland's driver's-ed requirement for what's actually mandatory once you have the permit in hand, and our GDL guide for the full sequence of practice hours and hold periods that follow.
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More Maryland Guides
- How Long Is a Maryland Permit Valid?
- Maryland GDL Rules Explained
- What Happens If You Fail Your MD Exam
- Do You Need Driver's Ed in Maryland?
Rules and requirements change — always confirm current details with Maryland MVA before your exam. Check the full guides index or the Maryland cheat sheet and FAQ, or take a free Maryland practice test.