X Driving Tests
License Requirements

MD Driver’s License Requirements by Age Group

3 min read

Maryland's Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) has specific licensing rules based on the applicant’s age. These rules are designed to ensure that drivers of all age groups are adequately prepared for the road. From young teen drivers to seniors renewing a license, here's what each group needs to know.

Ages 15 to 17: Provisional Licensing Through the GDL Program

Teens in Maryland begin with a learner’s instructional permit, which is available at age 15 years and 9 months. To obtain the permit, applicants must:

  • Pass a vision screening and a knowledge test
  • Provide proof of school attendance (if under 16)
  • Be accompanied by a parent or guardian at application

After obtaining the permit, teens must complete at least 60 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night. An adult supervisor must be present during all practice hours.

Once the permit is held for at least 9 months and all requirements are fulfilled, teens can apply for a provisional license. This requires passing a driving skills test and completing a driver’s education program.

For full details on the licensing process, refer to Maryland’s Graduated Driver Licensing Steps.

Ages 18 to 24: Standard Licensing with Driver Education

Applicants in this age group must also start with an instructional permit, regardless of prior driving experience. However, the holding period is shorter—usually 3 months—if driver’s education has been completed and no moving violations occur.

New drivers aged 18–24 must:

  • Complete a certified Maryland driver’s education course
  • Log supervised practice hours if under 21
  • Pass both the knowledge and road skills tests

Understanding Maryland Road Rules for New Drivers can help applicants prepare for the exams and stay compliant with state laws.

Ages 25 and Older: Streamlined Licensing for Adults

Adults 25 and over follow similar steps but benefit from reduced holding periods for the instructional permit—typically 45 days with completed driver’s ed and clean driving record.

Driver’s education is still mandatory for first-time applicants, even at this age. The program includes classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. Once these requirements are satisfied, adults may take the skills test to obtain a full driver’s license.

Seniors: Renewals and Reassessments

Drivers aged 70 and older in Maryland are not subject to different application rules, but license renewal periods may be shorter based on health or vision evaluations.

Key points for senior drivers:

  • MVA may require vision tests more frequently
  • In some cases, a re-examination of driving ability may be requested
  • Doctors can report conditions that affect driving ability

If a license expires, review the process outlined in What to Do if Your Maryland License Expires.

Additional Notes on Instructional Permits

Maryland requires all first-time drivers, regardless of age, to begin with an instructional permit unless they already hold a valid out-of-state license. Steps for obtaining this permit are outlined in How to Get a Maryland Instructional Permit.

Applicants must:

  • Be at least 15 years and 9 months old
  • Pass the vision and knowledge tests
  • Provide required identification and residency documents

Each permit is valid for 2 years and must be held for the minimum duration based on age and education status.