Maryland DMV Practice Test 2026

Maryland's knowledge test is administered by the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) and is known for having one of the highest passing thresholds in the country — you need an 88% score to pass. That means getting at least 22 out of 25 questions correct, leaving room for only 3 mistakes. The 25 multiple-choice questions cover traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices from the Maryland Driver's Manual.

You'll take the test on a computer at any MVA branch office. There's a 20-minute time limit, which gives you less than a minute per question, so familiarity with the material is essential. The good news is there's no fee to take the knowledge test — it's completely free, including retakes. Tests are available in 17 languages including English, Spanish, Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, and American Sign Language.

To apply, bring your proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), Social Security card, and two proofs of Maryland residency. If you're under 18, you'll also need parental consent and proof that you're enrolled in a state-approved driver education program. The minimum age for a learner's permit in Maryland is 15 years and 9 months.

If you fail on your first attempt, you can retake the test the next business day. However, after two or more failures, you must wait 7 calendar days before trying again. There's no limit on the total number of attempts, and no additional fee is charged for retakes.

Once you pass, you'll receive your learner's permit, which allows you to drive with a licensed adult 21 or older in the front passenger seat. You must hold the permit for at least 9 months and complete 60 hours of supervised driving (including 10 hours at night) before you can take the driving skills test. Maryland's graduated licensing system means provisional license holders face restrictions on nighttime driving and passengers until age 18.

Maryland's test content draws heavily from the Maryland Driver's Manual. Pay special attention to Maryland-specific laws such as the Move Over law, cell phone restrictions, and the state's zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21 (.02 BAC limit). Start practicing with free questions below to see where you stand.