Come on down to the Old Line State! This article will teach you how to receive your Maryland driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, motorcycle license, and everything in between. Let’s get started.
Types of Maryland Driver’s Licenses
The two types of driver’s license classifications in Maryland are commercial and non-commercial.
Commercial Driver’s Licenses
Commercial driver’s licenses are issued for the operation of commercial vehicles. The three commercial driver’s licenses and vehicle classes in Maryland are Class A, B, and C.
- Class A – this commercial driver’s license allows the operation of any combination of commercial vehicles, assuming the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or the combined weight is at least 26,001 lbs., and the trailer weighs at least 10,000 lbs.
- Class B – a commercial driver’s license that allows the operation of any commercial motor vehicle with a GVWR of at least 26,001 lbs. and a tow trailer that does not exceed 10,000 lbs.
- Class C – this commercial driver’s license allows the operation of any vehicle, except motorcycles, that have a GVWR that does not exceed 26,001 lbs., and a tow trailer that has a GVWR of 10,000 lbs. or less.
Non-Commercial Driver’s Licenses
Non-commercial driver’s licenses are for the operation of vehicles that are used for personal use, such as driving to school or work.
- Class A – allows individuals to operate any non-commercial vehicle and tow any non-commercial trailer. The GVWR of the vehicle or the combined weight of the vehicle and trailer must exceed 25,001 lbs., while the trailer must weigh at least 10,000 lbs.
- Class B – allows individuals to operate any single or combination of non-commercial vehicles, excluding motorcycles and tractors, and tow any non-commercial trailers. The motor vehicle must have a GVWR of at least 26,001 lbs., and the trailer must not exceed 10,000 lbs.
- Class C – allows individuals to operate any single or combination of non-commercial vehicles that have a GVWR that does not exceed 26,001 lbs. and tow any non-commercial trailer with a GVWR that doesn’t exceed 10,000 lbs.
- Class M – allows individuals to operate motorcycles
Maryland Driver’s License Requirements
You are required to have a Maryland driver’s license if any of the following applies to you:
- You are a new resident of Maryland and want to apply for a Maryland driver’s license or transfer an out-of-state driver’s license
- You have legal presence in the state of Maryland and the US (you are not required to have a Maryland driver’s license if you attain a diplomatic driver’s license that has been issued by the US Department of State).
- You are a long-time Maryland resident who’s never been licensed
- You plan to operate any of the non-commercial Class A, B, C, and M vehicles described above
You are not required to attain a Maryland driver’s license if any of the following apply:
- You operate farm vehicles off public highways
- You’re at least 18 years old and visiting Maryland with a valid out-of-state driver’s license
- You only operate registered off-highway vehicles and snowmobiles without accessing public roads (other than crossing the roads)
- You’re an active military member or dependent that is stationed in Maryland, as long as you have a valid out-of-state driver’s license, and you have established residency in Maryland
Maryland Driver’s License Eligibility Requirements
In Maryland, as a new driver, you are required to participate in Maryland’s MVA rookie driver program, which has several stages, including:
- Learner’s permit
- Provisional license
- Full driver’s license
Applying for Your Maryland Driver’s License
In the state of Maryland, the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) requires you to complete their Graduated Licensing System (GLS) to receive your new Maryland driver’s license, which is required for new drivers regardless of their age.
New Residents of Maryland
As a new resident of Maryland, you have 60 days after you establish residency in MD to transfer your out-of-state driver’s license to a Maryland driver’s license. The type of Maryland driver’s license you can apply for will be determined by how long you have been licensed. If you have been licensed for at least 18 months, you can apply for a standard Maryland driver’s license. If you have been licensed for less than 18 months, you can apply for a Maryland provisional driver’s license.
To receive a new Maryland driver’s license, you are required to appear in person at your local Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MD MVA) and:
- Present your current driver’s license or a certified driving record from your previous state
- Pay the fee of $9 per year (your driver’s license will be valid from 5 to 8 years)
- Pass the vision screening
- Prove your age and identity. Valid documentation can include a(n):
- Original or certified birth certificate (can be a copy)
- Valid US passport
- Valid permanent resident card
- Provide Proof of your social security number (SSN). Valid documentation can include:
- Your social security card
- A W-2 or 1099 dated within the last 18 months
- A pay stub dated within the last 18 months
- Provide 2 documents to prove you are a Maryland resident, such as a:
- Utility bill
- Bank statement
- Mortgage agreement or rental contract
Be advised that the documentation must show your name and address. Additionally, each document is required to be from a different company.
Acceptable Identification Documents in Maryland
In Maryland, there are different identification documents you can use when you’re applying for an MD driver’s license, such as the following:
- Passport
- Armed forces ID cards
- Permanent resident card
- Birth certificate
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Foreign passport with a valid I-94 (the expiration date of the I-94 expiration date must be more than two months from the date you visit the office.)
Examples of acceptable true full-name verification can include the following:
- A marriage certificate
- Adoption documents that contain your legal name as a result of the adoption
- A dissolution of marriage document that contains your legal name as a result of the court order
- Name change documents that contain your legal name both before and after
- Certificate of Registration document that verifies the formation of a domestic partnership
Examples of acceptable residency documents can include the following:
- Insurance documents
- A record of a financial institution
- Resident utility bills (this can include cell phone bills)
- Maryland vehicle or vessel title or registration
Obtaining a Maryland Driver’s License Under the Age of 18
If you’re under the age of 18, there are a series of steps you need to follow before you can receive your full Maryland driver’s license.
New Residents of Maryland
If you recently moved to Maryland and you’re a teen driver, you are required to participate in the state’s Graduated Licensing System (GLS). There are several stages to the GLS program. When you move to Maryland, whether you are currently licensed, and your age will determine where you start with the GLS.
The Maryland Learner’s Permit
Out-of-state learner’s permits are not transferred in the state of Maryland, so you must obtain a new Maryland learner’s permit. To receive your Maryland permit, you need to be at least 15 years and 9 months old. You must apply for a new MD learner’s permit in person at your local MD MVA branch.
You will also need to complete and pass the MVD written test and vision exam. In addition to these requirements, you will need to:
- Prove your age and identity using the following documents:
- Valid passport
- An original or certified copy of your birth certificate
- Prove your Maryland residence (you must provide 2 documents). You can also use a certified statement from your parent or legal guardian.
- Show your social security card, a W-2 that is less than 18 months old, or a pay stub that is less than 18 months old.
- Submit a signed and sealed Verification of Identity and/or School Attendance Form (Form DL-300). If you are younger than 16 years old, you can also use this form as proof of your identity.
- Have your parent or legal guardian sign a permission form (required if you are younger than 18 years old.)
- Pay the $50 fee (this fee covers all stages of the GLS)
Provisional Driver’s License
If you are at least 16 ½ years old and currently have an out-of-state driver’s license for less than 18 months, you are required to obtain a Maryland provisional driver’s license. You must have completed an approved driver’s education course.
Be advised that the MD MVA does not accept out-of-state Driver’s Ed courses except for some Delaware Driver’s Ed courses that are approved by the Delaware Board of Education. Your certificate will state that the course is approved by the MVA.
You can apply for a provisional driver’s license by visiting your local MD MVA branch and:
- Surrender your out-of-state driver’s license
- Prove your Maryland residence (2 documents are required). You can use a certified statement from your parent or legal guardian.
- Present your social security card, a W-2 that is less than 18 months old, or a pay stub that is less than 18 months old.
- Have your parent or legal guardian sign a permission form (required if you are younger than 18 years old)
- Pass the driving skills test
- Pay the fee of $6 per year
Provisional License Period
In the state of Maryland, you are required to attain your provisional driver’s license for at least 18 months with NO CONVICTIONS. If you’ve had your driver’s license from a different state or country, your provisional period will be shorter.
If you’ve been licensed for less than 18 months, your provisional period will be 18 months. If you’ve had your license for 6 to 12 months, your provisional period will be 12 months. If you’ve had your license for 12 to 18 months, your provisional period will be 6 months.
You can’t have any convictions while you have your provisional driver’s license. If you are convicted of a moving violation, your provisional period will start over for an additional 18 months.
Maryland Graduated Licensing System
Maryland’s Graduated Licensing System (GLS) applies to all drivers, regardless of how old a driver is, and enforces special restrictions and eligibility requirements for teen drivers.
This rookie driver program has 3 stages, which include a learner’s permit, a provisional driver’s license, and a full driver’s license. To proceed from one step to the next, you are required to meet specific eligibility requirements.
MD Driver’s License Age Requirements
To obtain a Maryland learner’s permit, you must be at least 15 years and 9 months old. A provisional license requires you to be at least 16 ½ years old. To be eligible to receive a full driver’s license in Maryland, you need to be at least 18 years old.
How to Get a Maryland Learner’s Permit
Obtaining a learner’s permit is the first step in the GLS process. To apply for a learner’s permit, you must be at least 15 years and 9 months old.
You will need to visit your local MD MVA office and do the following to apply for your learner’s permit:
- Prove your age and identity using your valid passport or an original or certified copy of your birth certificate
- Provide proof of your Maryland residency (2 documents are required). You can also use a certified statement from your parent or legal guardian.
- Submit your social security card, a W-2 that is less than 18 months old, or a pay stub that is less than 18 months old
- Provide a signed and sealed Verification of Identity and/or School Attendance (Form DL-300) (only required if you are younger than 16 years old). This form can also serve as your proof of identity.
- Have your parent or legal guardian sign a permission form (if you are younger than 18 years old)
- Pass the DMV written test/knowledge exam
- Complete and pass the vision exam
- Pay the $50 fee (covers all stages of the GLS)
Learner’s Permit Driving Restrictions
When you’re driving with your MD learner’s permit, you can only operate a motor vehicle when you are accompanied by a supervising driver who is at least 21 years old, has been licensed to drive for at least 3 years, and must remain on the passenger side while you’re driving.
If you’re younger than 18 years old, you are not allowed to use ANY mobile device while operating a motor vehicle, except to call 911. Violating these restrictions can result in your permit being suspended. Your learner’s permit is valid for 2 years from the date it is issued.
Behind-the-Wheel Driving Practice
Your learner’s permit allows you to practice your driving skills. You will have your learner’s permit for at least 9 months before you will be eligible to apply for a provisional license. During this time, if you are under 25 years old, you are required to:
- Complete an approved Maryland Driver’s Education (Driver’s ED) course with at least 30 hours in the classroom and at least 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training.
- Log at least 60 hours of supervised driver training (at least 10 of these hours must be driven at night, specifically 30 minutes before sunset to 30 minutes after sunrise.)
Full Unrestricted Maryland Driver’s License
Your provisional license will automatically become a full driver’s license when you are at least 18 years old and have attained your provisional driver’s license for 18 months WITHOUT ANY convictions.
You must not have any alcohol-related convictions if you are younger than 21 years old. When you are eligible, you will receive an updated Maryland license in the mail that shows you are currently a fully licensed driver. You must carry the card with your provisional driver’s license. Once your provisional license expires, you can renew your driver’s license and receive a standard Maryland driver’s license.
The Maryland Written Exam and Road Test
You must pass the Maryland written exam and road test before receiving your full, standard Maryland driver’s license.
Taking the Maryland Written Exam
The Maryland written exam consists of 25 questions total, 22 of which you must answer correctly to receive a minimum passing score of 88%. The minimum age to apply to complete the MD written exam is 15 ¾.
The Maryland Road Test
The Maryland driving test consists of two parts, which are a closed-course section and a public road section. You will complete the closed-course part of the test first. During the closed-course part, you will be asked to perform different maneuvers, such as the reverse two-point turnabout, which requires you to back into a marked area that is similar to a driveway.
After passing the closed-course section, you can continue to the public road part of the test. The public road part of the road test will take place on a predetermined testing route on public roads. Your performance on this test will be evaluated based on your general driving abilities.
Non-Commercial Class A, B, and C Maryland Driver’s Licenses
In the state of Maryland, the MVA offers different types of non-commercial driver’s licenses, which are classes A, B, C, and M. Class A non-commercial driver’s licenses allow individuals to operate noncommercial vehicles of any weight, except motorcycles.
Class B non-commercial driver’s licenses allow individuals to operate any non-commercial vehicle or combination of vehicles, except tractor-trailer combinations and motorcycles. Class C non-commercial driver’s licenses are the standard driver’s licenses in the state of Maryland. With the license, individuals are allowed to operate a vehicle or a combination of vehicles that have a total weight that does not exceed 26,001 lbs. The Class M driver’s license allows individuals to operate a motorcycle.
Like any other type of driver’s license, you are required to complete the written exam and road test to receive your license. Your driver’s license will be valid for 5 to 8 years.
Married, Divorced, or Name Change?
Did you recently change your name? If so, you may be required to provide name change documentation if you’re applying for a new MD driver’s license or identification card. If you are applying for a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, you may be asked to submit a marriage license or another document that proves your legal name change.
If the name that is present on your identification document is different from the name you submitted on your application, you must submit a document that establishes your true full name. Examples of such documentation can include:
- A certificate, declaration, or registration document that verifies the formation of a domestic partnership
- Adoption documents that contain the legal names as a result of the adoption
- A dissolution of marriage/domestic partnership document that contains the legal name as a result of the court action
- A marriage certificate
- A name change document that contains the legal name of both before and after the name change
Does the REAL ID Act Impact Residents of Maryland?
The federal guidelines require individuals to be compliant with the REAL ID Act for certain instances. Having a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card is necessary to board commercial aircraft or gain access to federal facilities. To be REAL ID-compliant, you must have the necessary (original or certified copy) documents on file with the MD MVA.
Is Obtaining a REAL ID Mandatory in Maryland?
If you’re not interested in obtaining a REAL ID-compliant document, you don’t have to because REAL IDs are OPTIONAL in the state of Maryland. If you have valid documentation that is TSA-approved, you can use these documents to pass TSA checkpoints at airport terminals nationwide and visit a secure federal building or military installation at any time.
You are not required to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card to perform any of the following:
- Enter a federal facility that does not require ID (ex. post office)
- Visit a hospital or receive life-saving services
- Vote
- Operate a motor vehicle
- Apply for or receive federal benefits (Social Security Administration (SSA), Veterans Affairs, etc.)
How Do You Prepare to Apply for a REAL ID Card?
Preparing to obtain a REAL ID card can help you get in and out of the MD MVA branch quickly. You may also want to schedule an appointment, so you aren’t waiting in line all day. In Maryland, there are four documents, known as the REAL ID Core Four. These documents are the ones you will need to verify your identity, age, where you live, and other credentials.
The MD MVA may already have your social security documents on file, so that’s one less thing you may have to worry about. You can check the REAL ID Look Up Tool and use your driver’s license number to confirm if your SSN is on file. Keep in mind that any documents you are required to submit must be original or certified copies.
REAL ID Required Documents
You must provide different documents to obtain a REAL ID-compliant item, such as a driver’s license or identification card. You will need the following documentation:
- Proof of Age and Identity
- US birth certificate (original or certified copy)
- US passport (valid or expired less than 5 years)
- Permanent resident card
- US adoption records (must include your full name and date of birth)
- Naturalization Certificate
- Certificate of Citizenship
Be advised that birth registration cards and hospital birth certificates are NOT accepted.
- Proof of Social Security
- Social Security Card (original or official duplicate)
- W-2 Form
- SSA-1099 Form
- Non SSA-1099 Form
- Pay Stub (less than 3 months old)
The document you’re using as proof of social security must have your name and full social security number.
- Proof of Maryland Residency
- Vehicle registration card
- Bank account statement
- Insurance card
- Utility bill
- Lease or mortgage statement
- Cable or phone bill
The documents you use as proof of residency must have a matching name and address.
Applying for a Commercial Driver’s License in Maryland
Are you ready to hit the open road and take in scenic country and city views for long stretches at a time? You can get paid to do so, but you must first obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
You must follow the national protocols that are established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the licensing process in Maryland, which is overseen by the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA).
Who Can Obtain a Maryland CDL?
To be eligible for a Maryland commercial driver’s license, you’ll need to:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Applicants under 21 years old will be restricted to driving commercial vehicles within MD state borders—called intrastate driving.
- Already have a valid, non-CDL Maryland license.
- Be able to provide proof of your:
- Age.
- Identity.
- Maryland residence.
- You may also be asked to show proof of your Social Security number(SSN).
Commercial Learner’s Permits in Maryland
Before you can earn your CDL, you must obtain your commercial learner’s permit (CLP). Although it is not required by either the FMCSA or MD MVA, it is recommended by both agencies to first enroll in a commercial driving education course. This course will likely help you be as successful as possible with the CLP process.
When you are ready, visit your local Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration branch (you don’t have to schedule an appointment first), and be prepared to:
- Provide identifying documents
- Show your non-commercial MD driver’s license.
- Pass a vision screening (can be completed using your doctor or taken at an MVA branch).
- Have the required paperwork with you.
- Submit to a driving record check. (The past 10 years of your record in every state plus Washington, D.C. will be under review.
- Pay the $90 fee.
You’ll also have to complete all written exams for the class of CDL you want and any endorsements you wish to add to your commercial driver’s license.
If you don’t pass the tests on the first try, no worries! You will have a chance to retake the exam. However, if you fail the test 2 times, you must wait 7 days before attempting to retake the test. Once you pass the written exams, you’ll officially own a commercial learner’s permit. Congratulations!
Maryland CLP Restrictions
Getting a CLP is an essential step toward obtaining a CDL, but while you’re driving with your CLP, you must follow some additional rules:
- You’ll only be allowed to drive on public roads.
- You must be accompanied by a full CDL holder qualified to operate the same class of vehicle.
You must practice driving with your CLP for a certain period before you can schedule the skills test needed to earn your commercial driver’s license. The federal waiting period is 14 days, but this time frame could be different for you.
You should check with the MD MVA about the specific waiting periods in Maryland.
Everyone who applies for a CDL must also have training in the recognition, prevention, and reporting of human trafficking.
Maryland Commercial Driver’s License
There’s only one additional step between you and your commercial driver’s license! You must complete the skills exam before you can receive your full CDL.
You must schedule an appointment with the Maryland MVD to complete the test. Before you arrive to take the test, make sure the appropriate amount of time practicing with your CLP has passed. You also need to organize a way to take the skills test in the same class of vehicle you intend on operating with your commercial driver’s license, or a restriction may be added to your license. Since you’re technically still a permit holder at this point, you’ll also have to be accompanied to the test by a full CDL holder.
Make sure to take the following to the appointment:
- Your commercial learner’s permit.
- The necessary medical paperwork.
- The $68 CDL fee
The skills exam consists of several parts, including the:
- Pre-trip inspection.
- You will have 45 minutes to complete this portion.
- Basic controls test.
- You will be given 10 minutes per maneuver.
- Public road driving test.
- Typically lasts up to 40 minutes
If you fail any part of the test, you won’t be allowed to move on to the next portion. Instead, you must reschedule the exam for another time and pay the $20 rescheduling fee.
Once you pass the required exams, you’ll be issued your commercial driver’s license. You did it!
Maryland CDL Fees
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration charges the following for CDLs and related services:
- Commercial learner’s permit (includes skills test fees): $90.
- Commercial driver’s license: $68.
- Skills test (retest): $20.
Payments to the MD MVA can be made using a credit card, cash, or check made payable to “Motor Vehicle Administration.” If you’re paying by check, you must also include your:
- Name.
- Address.
- Driver’s license number.
- Phone number.
CDL Medical Requirements
Every commercial driver’s license applicant in Maryland must be deemed physically fit for the job BEFORE they can apply, including informing the state of the type of driving you intend on doing with your commercial driver’s license, known as self-certification. You must also have an FMCSA-approved doctor to complete your physical. To be considered medically qualified for a CDL by the MD MVA, you’ll need to complete the following forms:
- Driving Certification for Maryland Commercial Driver’s License Holders (Form DL-330)
- Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876)
Self-certification can be a confusing process, so if you have questions or need additional information, check out the MVA’s medical requirements page here.
Military CDL Waivers in Maryland
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration have developed a program to help recent veterans or current service members quickly receive a CDL by having the skills test waived. The Maryland MVA offers this waiver for individuals who are applying for a Class A or Class B commercial driver’s license ONLY.
To qualify, you’ll need to:
- Be currently enlisted in the military.
OR- Have left the service within 12 months of applying for the waiver.
AND
- Have 2 years of experience driving commercial vehicles or the military equivalent while in the service.
You can print out and complete the Military Skills Test Waiver (Form CDL-STWVRF).
Federal Self-Certification Requirements
You must self-certify the type of vehicle you’re operating with the MD MVA by certifying one of the following driving categories:
- Non-excepted interstate
- Excepted interstate
- Non-excepted intrastate
- Excepted intrastate
Applying for a Maryland Motorcycle License
Before you can start enjoying the open road on your motorcycle in the state of Maryland, you need to obtain a motorcycle license.
New Residents of Maryland
Once you’re officially settled in the Old Line State, you have a maximum of 60 days to transfer your license. If you currently have a motorcycle license or motorcycle endorsement from your previous state, you’ll need to visit your local MVA branch and:
- Take your:
- Current motorcycle license/endorsement.
- Proof of:
- Maryland residency.
- Identification.
- Pass the vision test.
If your motorcycle license/endorsement has been expired for over 1 year, there are a few additional requirements to transfer it, including:
- Passing the Maryland written motorcycle test
- Completing the motorcycle road exam
If you’re younger than 18 years old, you must also obtain a completion certificate from a state-approved motorcycle safety program. If this is your first time obtaining a license, you must complete an approved Driver’s Education course regardless of your age. You may be required to pay additional fees to transfer your motorcycle license. Reach out to your local MVA branch for more information.
Maryland Motorcycle License Eligibility
To obtain a Maryland motorcycle license, you must:
- Be at least 16 years and 6 months old.
- Applicants under 18 years old must complete a motorcycle safety course
- Complete a Driver’s Education Course
- Adhere to Maryland’s Graduated Licensing System
- Pass the written test.
- You will be eligible to earn your permit during this time, you can apply for a permit if you are at least 15 years and 9 months old.
- Complete the road test
- Pay the applicable MD motorcycle licensing fees
You can also choose to bypass the MVA altogether by enrolling in a motorcycle safety course. Passing this course allows you to waive your MD motorcycle knowledge and skills exams.
Be advised that all new drivers, regardless of age, must complete an approved driver’s education course.
Maryland Motorcycle Permits
Before you can start enjoying the open road, you’ll have to learn how to ride your motorcycle. You can skip this step by completing an approved motorcycle safety course.
If you choose to stick with the MVA route, you need to find a full-service Motor Vehicle Administration branch, and:
- Take your:
- Maryland driver’s license.
- Safety course completion certificate (only required if you are under 18 years old or have never had a Maryland license).
- Complete and pass the following exams:
- Vision test.
- Road signs exam.
- Written motorcycle test.
You’ll also need to complete the written test for a Maryland driver’s license and take your residency and identification documents if you:
- Have a license that:
- Is of a different class.
- Has expired for more than 1 year.
- Have never obtained a Maryland driver’s license.
You may also be required to pay a permit fee and complete additional paperwork. You can call your local MVA office for more information. Once the above is completed and submitted, you’ll be the owner of a new Maryland motorcycle permit. Time to start practicing!
Permit Limitations
Obtaining a motorcycle permit grants you the freedom to practice driving on your motorcycle. Keep in mind that you still have rules to follow. Motorcycle permit holders in Maryland can only practice under the supervision of an individual who:
- Is at least 21 years old.
AND - Has had a motorcycle license for a minimum of 3 years.
While you have your motorcycle permit, you can only take passengers who meet the above requirements.
Obtaining Your Maryland Motorcycle License
Once you’ve practiced driving your motorcycle under the supervision of a licensed rider, you’re ready to hit the road and enjoy your own company, but first, you need to pass the skills exam.
This test is completed on a closed course and enhances your ability to safely operate your motorcycle in and out of turns, stops, and other maneuvers. You can take the motorcycle skills exam either:
- Through the MD MVA.
- Through a motorcycle safety course (REQUIRED if you are under 18 years old)
If you stick with the state agency, you must schedule an appointment with an MVA branch that conducts motorcycle skills tests.
Don’t forget to take your Maryland driver’s license and the payment for all applicable motorcycle license fees.
After you pass your exam and pay the fee, your brand-new Maryland motorcycle license will be sent to you through the mail. You should receive your new MD motorcycle license within 7 business days. While you’re waiting for your permanent motorcycle license, you can use the paper “interim receipt” as your license and enjoy the road.
If you don’t pass the motorcycle exam on the first try, you can retake the exam the next day, as long as there is an appointment available. If you fail the test again on your retest, you must wait at least 7 calendar days before you can retake the test.
Maryland Motorcycle Safety Courses
There are different ways you can secure a motorcycle license in Maryland. Passing an approved motorcycle safety course will allow you to skip the testing through the Motor Vehicle Administration, as long as you currently have a Maryland driver’s license.
If you’re younger than 18 years old, passing the motorcycle safety course is REQUIRED before you can officially begin the licensing process. The course is optional for other individuals. To participate in this course, you must find a state-approved training center. It’s a good idea to call ahead and ask about the applicable fees. Course prices will vary depending on the program.
Getting Your Maryland Motorcycle License
Once you pass your class, you’ll be issued a safety course completion certificate. Make sure you put this certificate in a safe place because you’ll need it to earn your Maryland motorcycle license.
When you’re ready to get your license, visit your local Maryland MVA branch and take your:
- MD driver’s license
- Course completion certificate
- Proof of your:
- Age.
- Identity.
- Lawful status.
- Social Security number
- Maryland residence
- Payment for the appropriate motorcycle licensing fee(s)
Your Maryland motorcycle license will be mailed to you within 7 business days. Congratulations!
Motorcycle License Fees in Maryland
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration bases licensing fees on your age and how long the license will be valid.
The MD fees are as follows:
- Motorcycle-only license:
- Under 21 years old: $9 per each 1 year valid
- 21 years old or older:
- $9 per each 1-year valid (up to $72 total)
- Endorsement on MD CDL driver’s license: $45.
You can click here to check out the Maryland MVA fee chart for more information.
Maryland MVA Locations
There are different Motor Vehicle Administration branches in the state of Maryland. We’ve listed a few of these locations to help get you on your way. Check out our list and see if you can find an MVA branch in your area.
Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration – Waldorf Branch
11 Industrial Park Dr
Waldorf, MD 20602
(410) 760-7000
Call for business hours
Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration – Glen Burnie Branch
6601 Ritchie Highway NE
Glen Burnie, MD 21062
(410)768-7000
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday (8:30 Am – 4:30 PM)
Thursday (8:30 AM – 6:30 PM)
Saturday (8 AM – 3 PM)
Sunday (Closed)
Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration – Baltimore Branch
5425 Reisterstown Rd
Baltimore, MD 21215
(410) 768-7000
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday (8:30 Am – 4:30 PM)
Thursday (8:30 AM – 6:30 PM)
Saturday (8 AM – 3 PM)
Sunday (Closed)
You just learned how to get different licenses in the state of Maryland! Feel free to download the available forms in this content to help speed up the licensing process. Have a great day!