Driving in Maryland

To drive in Maryland, you must have a valid driver's license. Each state in the United States has its own driver's license that is valid throughout every state in the United States.

The Maryland driver's license is given by the Maryland Vehicle Administration (MVA).

Public Transportation

If you do not have a car, you can use the following public transportation options to get around in Baltimore:

Collegetown Shuttle 

This shuttle bus is free for students. It runs from the Baltimore Harbor all the way up to the shopping mall in Towson. The shuttle only operates during the spring and fall sessions.

Public Buses

There are many public buses that you can use.

Light Rail

The Light Rail is a train that runs from North to South. It stops at Baltimore Penn Station, BWI Airport and the Orioles Baseball Stadium.

Maryland Transit Administration (MTA)

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) has a special feature for people who would like to use the public transportation system but are not familiar with it.

  1. Go to mta.maryland.gov.
  2. Type in your start address and the address where you want to go. 
  3. The trip planner will tell you which buses or trains will take you there.

Check Your License

If you brought a driver's license with you, be sure it is valid.

  • License from Your Home Country: Valid for 30 Days
  • International Driver's License: Valid for 1 Year

After the time limit is over, you must get a Maryland driver's license.

How to Get A Maryland Driver's License

You must be at least 16 years old. You do not have to have a Social Security Number, but you must present the following documents:

  1. Passport
  2. Form I-94 Card (should be in your passport)
  3. Current Form I-20 (and any old I-20's you may have)
  4. Home Country or International Driver's License (if you have one)
  5. Proof of Maryland Address (examples: mail that shows your name and address, a telephone bill, electric bill, credit card bill, or a copy of your lease)
  6. Another Form of Identification with Your Signature (picture ID, canceled check, or a credit card)
  7. Fees
  8. Successful Completion Certificate for a 3-Hour Drug & Alcohol Class (offered at most driving schools)
Testing

At the MVA, you will have to take a written test and a road test using your own car. The written test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions and is available in many languages. You are also required to take a vision test.

The MVA’s rules and regulations frequently change, so be sure to check mva.maryland.gov or call 1-800-950-1682 for up-to-date information.

Locations

The MVA Offices closest to Notre Dame are in Baltimore City, Glen Burnie, Bel Air and Essex.

ELI students are not excused from classes to get a driver's license. This should be done on Saturday or after the school day is finished.​