Maryland CDL Study Guide
Maryland issues Commercial Driver Licenses through the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), part of MDOT. The MVA follows federal CDL rules and publishes its own CDL Manual (DL-151). You must pass knowledge tests, get a Commercial Learner Permit (CLP), complete federal Entry-Level Driver Training, and then pass a skills test to earn a Maryland CDL.
Key Maryland numbers
- Minimum age (intrastate): 18
- Minimum age (interstate or hazmat): 21
- CLP hold before skills test: at least 14 days
- General Knowledge passing score: 80%
- General Knowledge test: ~50 questions
- Air Brakes test: ~25 questions (required if your vehicle has air brakes)
- Combination Vehicles test: ~20 questions (required for Class A)
Topics on the Maryland General Knowledge test
- Vehicle inspection (pre-trip, en-route, post-trip)
- Driving safely (speed management, space management, hazard perception)
- Transporting cargo safely
- Air brakes (if your vehicle is air-braked)
- Combination vehicles (Class A)
If you fail a test
If you fail a CDL skills test, you must pay a $20 retest fee. The Maryland CDL Manual and MVA pages describe study and scheduling steps. Knowledge tests must be passed before the CLP is issued; check with the MVA office for wait times between attempts.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum age for a Maryland CDL?
You must be at least 18 to drive a commercial vehicle inside Maryland and at least 21 to drive across state lines or haul hazardous materials.
How long must I hold a Maryland CLP before the skills test?
At least 14 days, which matches the federal minimum.
Does Maryland require Entry-Level Driver Training?
Yes. First-time Class A or B applicants and first-time H, P, or S endorsement applicants must complete ELDT from an FMCSA-registered provider.
How much does a Maryland CDL cost?
The CLP is $106 and the CDL is $64, per the MVA. A skills retest is $20.
Where do I find the official Maryland CDL Manual?
Download DL-151 from the MVA website at mva.maryland.gov.
Do I need a DOT medical card for a Maryland CDL?
Yes, you must self-certify and provide a valid Medical Examiner Certificate unless you qualify for a narrow excepted category.
Free practice
Start a Maryland General Knowledge quiz →
Sources: Maryland CDL Manual DL-151 PDF Maryland MVA - Commercial Driveru0027s License Maryland MVA - Get or Renew a CDL Maryland MVA - CDL Skills Test