This page presents the source material collected so far. Some requirements may still need direct confirmation.
MDMaryland CDL permit test guide
The core course follows the national manual text most states use. When your state manual gives a different number, it wins.
- Licensing agency
- Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration
- Official CDL page
- mva.maryland.gov ↗
- Official CDL manual
- mva.maryland.gov ↗
- Testing, fees and appointments
- mva.maryland.gov ↗
- Knowledge-test language
- Confirm with the agency
Maryland gives CDL knowledge tests in English or Spanish, and all CDL skills tests only in English; interpreters are not allowed for any CDL knowledge or skills test.
- Source collection date
Steps to your CDL (federal minimums)
- Choose your class (A, B or C) and endorsements.
- Get a DOT medical exam from a provider on the National Registry and a medical examiner's certificate.
- Pass the knowledge tests at the state agency to get your commercial learner's permit (CLP).
- Hold the CLP at least 14 days and practice with a qualified CDL holder. A CLP is valid for up to one year (some states less).
- Complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) with a registered provider.
- Pass the skills test: pre-trip inspection, basic control and road test, in English.
- Get your CDL. You must be 21 to drive across state lines.
What is different in this state
- Test languages
Maryland gives CDL knowledge tests in English or Spanish, and all CDL skills tests only in English; interpreters are not allowed for any CDL knowledge or skills test.
- Knowledge tests
You need 80% on each knowledge test, and General Knowledge must be passed first. After a second failure of the same knowledge test you wait at least 7 days.
- Learner permit (CLP)
If your CLP expires before you pass the skills test, you must apply for a new permit, retake the knowledge tests and pay again. Doubles/Triples and Hazmat are not placed on the CLP.
- Fees
CDL learner's permit $106; CDL renewal $64 (8-year license); skills retest $20; hazmat background check $109.25; missing a skills appointment costs a $20 no-show fee.
- Age
You must be 18 to drive a CMV within Maryland and 21 to cross state lines or haul hazardous materials.
- Also important
Skills tests are by appointment; you must pass pre-trip before basic control and basic control before the road test. Hazmat fingerprinting is only at 5 MVA offices, and out-of-state hazmat holders must redo the TSA check in Maryland.
State-only topics in the manual
- Maryland intro: ELDT, age rules, required knowledge tests, hazmat background check, and skills-test order.
- Maryland section on medical certification, disqualifications and motor-carrier registration (IRP/IFTA).
Source collection date:
The three permit tests
General Knowledge
Required for every CDL class.
Mock examAir Brakes
Needed to drive a vehicle with air brakes without an "L" restriction.
Mock examCombination Vehicles
Needed for Class A (tractor-trailers).
Mock exam7CDL is an independent study aid. It is not a government website, not affiliated with any state agency, FMCSA or AAMVA, and not an ELDT provider. Always check your state's official CDL manual and agency.