Maryland Road Signs & Driver Knowledge Test Exam Guide
At a glance
- Questions
- 25
- Passing score
- 88% or higher (e.g., 22 of 25 for Class C)
- Exam fee
- $0
- Governing body
- Maryland Department of Transportation Motor…
The Maryland Road Signs & Driver Knowledge Test is the written exam required for Class C, Class M, and moped permit applicants before they can move on to behind-the-wheel driving. It is administered by the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MDOT MVA) and checks whether a new driver recognizes traffic signs and understands the rules of the road before getting a permit.
Overview
The knowledge test blends several topics into a single exam rather than testing road signs on their own. Traffic signs are tested alongside rules of the road and safe driving practices, so applicants need to recognize sign shapes and meanings as well as understand right-of-way, speed limits, and general driving procedures.
- Traffic signs: shapes such as octagons, triangles, and circles, and their meanings, including stop, yield, speed limit, and warning signs
- Rules of the road: right-of-way, speed limits, and general traffic laws
- Safe driving practices: defensive driving and general roadway safety concepts
Exam format
The Class C, Class M, and moped permit knowledge test has 25 questions, and applicants must score 88% or higher to pass. Time limits and other administrative details can vary by location, so applicants should confirm current procedures with MDOT MVA before test day.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the Maryland MVA knowledge test?
The Class C, Class M, and Moped Permit knowledge test consists of 25 questions.
What is the passing score for the Maryland knowledge test?
You must score 88% or higher to pass.
Are road signs tested on the Maryland knowledge exam?
Yes, traffic sign shapes and meanings, including stop, yield, speed limit, and warning signs, are one of the topics covered on the knowledge test.
Who administers Maryland's driver knowledge test?
The Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration administers the knowledge test at its licensing locations.
What happens if I fail the Maryland knowledge test?
Retake policies, waiting periods, and any associated fees can change, so check current retest rules directly with the Maryland MVA before your test date.
Do I need to study anything besides road signs for the Maryland test?
Yes, the knowledge test also covers rules of the road and safe driving practices in addition to sign shapes and meanings. Additional study resources covering these topics in detail are available directly from the Maryland MVA.
Sources
- 1.Maryland driver knowledge test — official test description — Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MDOT MVA) (accessed Aug 9, 2026)
Official sources
Every exam fact on this page traces to a primary document published by the body that administers the exam.
- Knowledge Tests | MDOT Motor Vehicle AdministrationMDOT Motor Vehicle Administrationmva.maryland.gov
- License & ID Fees | MDOT Motor Vehicle AdministrationMDOT Motor Vehicle Administrationmva.maryland.gov
- Maryland driver knowledge test — official test descriptionMaryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MDOT MVA)mva.maryland.gov
- Learner's Permit | MDOT Motor Vehicle AdministrationMDOT Motor Vehicle Administrationmva.maryland.gov
Last verified against the official exam content outline: