In many cases, you will need to obtain a commercial learner’s permit before you can apply for a Maryland CDL.  However, if you have a CDL from another U.S. jurisdiction or Canada, or if you have a non-commercial Maryland license, you may be able to convert it to a Maryland CDL without a permit.

Notes:  

1. Effective January 30, 2012, commercial drivers must provide the MVA with copies of their updated medical documentation (DOT Card & waiver/exemption if required) for the duration of their CDL, whether they are actively operating a commercial motor vehicle or not. The MVA will be contacting CDL holders, subject to the new FMCSA requirements starting January 30, 2012 through January 30, 2014.  CDL holders DO NOT need to submit their medical certification (Med Cert) information or declare a self-certification category with the MVA  until they have been directly contacted by the Administration.  If they are contacted by the MVA to provide them with this documentation and they fail to do so within the time frame indicated, their entire driver’s license privilege both commercial and noncommercial will be cancelled.  However, if they visit a MVA branch office to renew or obtain a duplicate, corrected or new CDL, they will be required to present valid Med Cert documentation at that time. The driver must also declare a self-certification category relating to their type of commerce. Click here for information on the self-certification categories.  See CDL Medical/Physical Requirements for more information.  You may also Click here to view the Frequently Asked Questions link for additional information.
   
2. The MVA will ONLY accept a Marriage Certificate that has been certified and issued by that jurisdictions proper government authority such as their Department of Vital Records/Statistics or their local or state court system.  A marriage license signed by a minister or other authorized officiant and issued by a church, etc. is a keepsake document and is NOT an official marriage document.  The local or state government authority will issue a marriage license granting the couple permission to get married by an authorized officiant.  The minister/officiant who solemnizes the marriage will complete and sign the actual marriage license that was issued by the proper government authority and then return it to the proper government authority who will verify and record the marriage/civil union in their files.  The married couple may then obtain a certified copy of the Marriage Certificate from this authority.
3. Effective January 1, 2013 the State of Maryland will permit Same-Sex marriages to be performed in Maryland and the MVA will recognize these marriages/civil unions.  Customers who have entered into a same-sex marriage and present the necessary documentation will be processed the same as customers of opposite genders. The MVA will also continue to recognize a same-sex marriage that was performed in another jurisdiction that has passed and enacted legislation that permits same-sex marriages to be performed in their jurisdiction. 
    

What is the procedure for converting a Maryland commercial learner’s permit to a Maryland CDL?

First, you must hold your commercial learner’s permit for at least 14 days before you can apply for the CDL.  While you are driving, you must comply with certain restrictions and requirements:

• A supervising driver (mentor) must accompany you.  The supervising driver:

1. Must have a valid CDL of the same class as or higher class than your learner’s permit class;
2. Must be 21 years or older;
3. Must have a minimum of 3 years driving experience in the same or higher class; and
4. Must be in the front seat, with no other front seat occupants.

• You must always have your Valid DOT card and waiver/exemption (if required) in your possession when operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV).
• If you have a CDL Intrastate Only (K) restriction on your permit, you can only drive within the State of Maryland.

The next step is to make an appointment at any MVA full-service branch office by visiting the office or by calling the Customer Service Center. Tests are not given at Baltimore City, Beltsville, Essex, Westminster and White Oak.  On the day of your scheduled visit, be sure to bring with you the following:

• Maryland commercial learner’s permit
• A valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT card).  An unaltered photographic copy of the DOT Card is acceptable.  If required, you must also present a valid state or federal waiver/exemption. See CDL Medical/Physical Requirements for more information.
• Vehicle to be used in taking the skills test, with a valid registration card.
• Accompanying driver – the driver must bring their CDL (in the same or higher class than your learner's permit) and a valid DOT Card and intrastate/interstate waiver or exemption if required.
• Glasses or contact lenses, if needed, or a completed and signed Vision Screening Form (see Vision Screening and Requirements for more information).
• Transportation Security Administration (TSA) assessment letter – you will need this letter if you want to add a hazardous materials (H) endorsement to your CDL.

When you arrive for your scheduled visit you will receive the appropriate skills test(s).  Upon completion of the skills test(s), you will be directed inside the office where a Customer Agent (CA) will:

• Collect your commercial learner’s permit;
• Take your photograph.  See note for MVA's Photo Guidelines.
• Review the documents you brought with you;
• Give you a vision screening or scan your Vision Screening Form (form #DL-043A) and
• Verify that you meet all eligibility requirements.
   
  Note:   MVA Photo Guidelines:  Because of the ever increasing need to use a photo driver’s license, learner’s permit or moped permit as proof of personal identification (i.e.: MVA, Law Enforcement, Homeland Security, etc.) in addition to its role as a licensing document, the Maryland MVA is required to follow and enforce certain guidelines concerning approving and using an acceptable digital image/photograph on these license products.  The same guidelines would also follow for the issuance of a Maryland Photo Identification Card.

   

  The MVA will not permit an applicant to significantly alter, hide or enhance their face or facial features by the use or excessive use of:

   

  1). Face Paint

  2). Cosmetics

  3). Cosmetic Contacts

  4). Facial Contortions

  5). Hats/Scarves/Other Clothing

  6). Hands, etc.

   

  If a supervisor deems it necessary, the customer will be required to remove the unacceptable face paint, cosmetics, etc. before a photo is taken.

  If a photo image is taken and it is determined to be unacceptable by an MVA supervisor due to any of the above reasons or otherwise, the MVA reserves the right to require that the customer either sits for another image or is refused the issuance of the MVA product.

   

  References:
   
  1. Issuance of license: TR, 16-111.1(d)(2-iv):  A color photograph of the applicant that is taken in accordance with a procedure that the Administration requires.
  2. Form and contents of an Identification Card: TR, 12-301(g)(2v):  A color photograph of the applicant taken by the procedure that the Administration requires.

When you are finished, the Customer Agent (CA) will issue your Maryland CDL.

What is the procedure for converting an out-of-state CDL to a Maryland CDL?

Note:  Effective January 30, 2012, commercial drivers must provide the MVA with copies of their updated medical documentation (DOT Card and waiver/exemption if required) for the duration of their CDL, whether they are actively operating a commercial motor vehicle or not.  The driver must also declare a self-certification category relating to their type of commerce. 

First, gather the documents that you will need to present to the MVA:

• Out-of-State CDL.
• Proof of your age, identity, lawful presence, social security number or ineligibility and residency;
• Valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT card). An unaltered photographic copy of the DOT Card – If you qualify for a waiver or exemption, you must present the waiver/exemption statement in addition to the DOT card.  See CDL Medical/Physical Requirements for more information.
• Glasses or contact lenses if needed (see Vision Screening and Requirements for more information);
• Payment for the CDL (cash, check, or MasterCard or Visa credit card).
   

Notes:

1. You will be required to provide documentary proof of your Social Security Number (SSN) to the MVA.
2. If a hazardous materials (H) or the Tanker/HAZMAT endorsement(s), is/are being transferred, the MVA requires that you apply for a new Maryland and federal background check and retake the HME Knowledge Test.  To add either endorsement to the CDL, you must first initiate a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Hazmat Background Record Check (BRC initiated in Maryland.)  To initiate the background check process, you must schedule an appointment with the MVA.  Click here and follow the directions provided to make an appointment at one of the following MVA offices:

• Glen Burnie;
• Bel Air;
• Salisbury;
• Waldorf; or
• Frederick

  3.  The out-of-state CDL holder with the Passenger and School Bus "PS" endorsements must take the "PS" Knowledge Tests to transfer these endorsements per COMAR 11.17.14.06(f).  If the customer only has the "Passenger" endorsement, they are "NOT" required to take the "P" knowledge test.

Second, visit an MVA full-service branch office where a Customer Agent (CA) will:

• Collect your CDL;
• Take your photograph.  See note for MVA's Photo Guidelines;
• Review the documents you brought with you;
• Give you a vision screening or scan your Vision Screening Form; and
• Verify that you meet all eligibility requirements.
   
  Note:   MVA Photo Guidelines.  Because of the ever increasing need to use a photo driver’s license, learner’s permit or moped permit as proof of personal identification (i.e.: MVA, Law Enforcement, Homeland Security, etc.) in addition to its role as a licensing document, the Maryland MVA is required to follow and enforce certain guidelines concerning approving and using an acceptable digital image/photograph on these license products.  The same guidelines would also follow for the issuance of a Maryland Photo Identification Card.

   

  The MVA will not permit an applicant to significantly alter, hide or enhance their face or facial features by the use or excessive use of:

   

  1). Face Paint

  2). Cosmetics

  3). Cosmetic Contacts

  4). Facial Contortions

  5). Hats/Scarves/Other Clothing

  6). Hands, etc.

   

  If a supervisor deems it necessary, the customer will be required to remove the unacceptable face paint, cosmetics, etc. before a photo is taken.

  If a photo image is taken and it is determined to be unacceptable by an MVA supervisor due to any of the above reasons or otherwise, the MVA reserves the right to require that the customer either sits for another image or is refused the issuance of the MVA product.

   

  References:
   
  1. Issuance of license: TR, 16-111.1(d)(2-iv):  A color photograph of the applicant that is taken in accordance with a procedure that the Administration requires.
  2. Form and contents of an Identification Card: TR, 12-301(g)(2v):  A color photograph of the applicant taken by the procedure that the Administration requires.

When you are finished, the Customer Agent (CA) will collect the fee owed and issue your Maryland CDL.

Note:  Customers must also be sure to change their name with the Social Security Administration (SSA) prior to coming to the MVA.  The license, learner’s permit or ID card will not be issued if the new desired name change does not match the SSA records and is not automatically verified by the SSA files.  It may take a minimum of 48 hours or longer for the SSA to update their records with your name change.

Customers may obtain a Change of Address form (VR-154) at any MVA office, online or the form may be mailed to you.  To have the form mailed, please call the MVA Customer Service Center

1. Like Maryland, some states grant an extension of the driver’s license validity period to active duty U.S. military personnel and/or their dependants.  However, Maryland law does “NOT” make any provisions for the MVA to accept and transfer an Out-of-State driver’s license that has been expired for one (1) year or more, unless the applicant retests and passes the Vision, Knowledge and Skill tests.
2. Maryland no longer acknowledges an Out-of-State license holder’s military extension for licensing purposes.  If the applicant’s Out-of-State license has been expired for one (1) year or more and the applicant states that their license was renewed or physically extended  by their licensing state (but they do not have the current/new license in their possession), then the customer must provide the MVA with a certified copy of their out-of-state driving record that was issued within the last 30 days, which states a current valid license expiration date.  If this document is accepted, then the retesting will not be required.  If the customer is unable to provide this document, then they will be required to retest if they wish to transfer their license.  However, the customer may continue to operate a motor vehicle on their current out-of-state license if their state grants them a military extension and they do not wish to transfer their license to Maryland.

Note:  Customers must also be sure to change their name with the Social Security Administration (SSA) prior to coming to the MVA.  The license, learner’s permit or ID card will not be issued if the new desired name change does not match the SSA records and is not automatically verified by the SSA files.  It may take a minimum of 48 hours or longer for the SSA to update their records with your name change.

Customers may obtain a Change of Address form (VR-154) at any MVA office, online or the form may be mailed to you.  To have the form mailed, please call the MVA Customer Service Center.

1. Like Maryland, some states grant an extension of the driver’s license validity period to active duty U.S. military personnel and/or their dependants.  However, Maryland law does “NOT” make any provisions for the MVA to accept and transfer an Out-of-State driver’s license that has been expired for one (1) year or more, unless the applicant retests and passes the Vision, Knowledge and Skill tests.
2. Maryland no longer acknowledges an Out-of-State license holder’s military extension for licensing purposes.  If the applicant’s Out-of-State license has been expired for one (1) year or more and the applicant states that their license was renewed or physically extended  by their licensing state (but they do not have the current/new license in their possession), then the customer must provide the MVA with a certified copy of their out-of-state driving record that was issued within the last 30 days, which states a current valid license expiration date.  If this document is accepted, then the retesting will not be required.  If the customer is unable to provide this document, then they will be required to retest if they wish to transfer their license.  However, the customer may continue to operate a motor vehicle on their current out-of-state license if their state grants them a military extension and they do not wish to transfer their license to Maryland.

What is the procedure for converting a Maryland non-commercial license to a Maryland CDL in the same class?

The procedure varies depending on your current license and when it was issued, among other things.  If you have a non-commercial class A or class B license that was originally issued before June 15, 1998, you are required to take a skills test in addition to the Vision and Knowledge tests.  The skills test must be scheduled and you may make this appointment in person at the MVA branch office that you plan to take the skills tests at or you may contact the Customer Service Center.for assistance.  If your non-commercial Class A or Class B license was issued on or after June 15, 1998, the skills test may be waived, unless special circumstances don't permit it.  

Note:    Effective January 30, 2012, commercial drivers must provide the MVA with copies of their updated medical documentation (DOT card & waiver/exemption, if required) for the duration of their CDL, whether they are actively operating a commercial motor vehicle or not.  The driver must also declare a self-certification category relating to their type of commerce.  Click here for information on the self-certification categories.             

When you go to the MVA, be sure to bring with you the following:

• Maryland Class A or Class B license.
• Valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT card).  An unaltered photographic copy of the DOT Card  is acceptable.  If  required, you must also present a valid state or federal waiver/exemption. See CDL Medical/Physical Requirements for more information.
• Vehicle to be used in taking the skills test, with a valid registration card, if a test is required.
• Glasses or contact lenses, if needed, or a completed and signed Vision Screening Form (see Vision Screening and Requirements for more information). 

The Customer Agent (CA) will:

• Take your photograph.  See note for MVA's Photo Guidelines;
• Review the documents you brought with you;
• Give you a vision screening or scan your Vision Screening Form (form #DL-043A) and
• Verify that you meet all eligibility requirements.
   
  You will then be required to pass the required knowledge tests and if necessary the skills test. 
   
  Note:  MVA Photo Guidelines:   Because of the ever increasing need to use a photo driver’s license, learner’s permit or moped permit as proof of personal identification (i.e.: MVA, Law Enforcement, Homeland Security, etc.) in addition to its role as a licensing document, the Maryland MVA is required to follow and enforce certain guidelines concerning approving and using an acceptable digital image/photograph on these license products.  The same guidelines would also follow for the issuance of a Maryland Photo Identification Card.

  The MVA will not permit an applicant to significantly alter, hide or enhance their face or facial features by the use or excessive use of:

  1). Face Paint

  2). Cosmetics

  3). Cosmetic Contacts

  4). Facial Contortions

  5). Hats/Scarves/Other Clothing

  6). Hands, etc.

  If a supervisor deems it necessary, the customer will be required to remove the unacceptable face paint, cosmetics, etc. before a photo is taken.

  If a photo image is taken and it is determined to be unacceptable by an MVA supervisor due to any of the above reasons or otherwise, the MVA reserves the right to require that the customer either sits for another image or is refused the issuance of the MVA product.

  References:
   
  1. Issuance of license: TR, 16-111.1(d)(2-iv):  A color photograph of the applicant that is taken in accordance with a procedure that the Administration requires.
  2. Form and contents of an Identification Card: TR, 12-301(g)(2v):  A color photograph of the applicant taken by the procedure that the Administration requires.

You will then be required to pass the required knowledge tests and if necessary the skills test. When you are finished, the Customer Agent (CA) will pick up your current license, collect the fee owed and issue your Maryland CDL.

Maryland Commercial Driver's License Endorsements:  If you would like additional information on adding an endorsement onto your CDL license, please click here.  

Fees:

• There is a fee for a CDL.
• If the customer holds a valid commercial learner’s permit, there is no additional fee since it was included in the permit fee.

Contact Information: 

MVA
Driver Services Division
6601 Ritchie Highway, NE
Glen Burnie, MD  21062
 

For telephone questions: 

Veteran Status Code:

Effective January 1, 2013 if you are able to present certain United States Military Veteran documentation (original or certified copy issued by the appropriate department/agency) certifying your veteran status you may apply to add a “W” restriction code indicating that you are a U.S. Veteran onto your Maryland driver’s license or identification card (ID card).  You can add this “W” restriction code when you are processed for a license or ID card Renewal, Correction or New product.

Notes:  

1. In choosing to add this code to the driver’s license or ID card, you consent to being contacted by the appropriate Executive Branch agencies regarding your eligibility for State or Federal Veteran’s benefits. 
2. “Veteran” means an individual who served on active duty in the armed forces of the United States, other than for training, and was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.
3. If you do not have one of the below acceptable proof of veteran status documents indicating a discharge or release under conditions other than dishonorable, you will need to contact the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) Service Office to obtain documentation verifying your status as a veteran.  You may call 1-800-446-4926 or visit the MDVA website at http://www.mdva.state.md.us/about/serviceProgram.html for information and assistance.    

The acceptable proof of veteran status documents are:

1. DD-214 Military Discharge Certificate, or;
2. Honorable Discharge Certificate, or;
3. Letter from U.S. Military Center in St. Louis, Missouri, or; 
4. Letter from the Maryland Veterans Administration Service Program

The acceptable documents must show the Veteran status as:

1. Honorable, or;
2. General, or;
3. General Under Honorable Conditions, or;
4. Discharged or Released under conditions other than Dishonorable

Fee:  There is a fee if the applicant chooses to add or remove this designation onto their license or ID card as a correction.