COVID-19 modifications to Md. driving tests to end next week

MARYLAND – Temporary modifications to Maryland driving tests made during the pandemic are ending next week.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration modified the driver’s skills test in June 2020 to ensure that social distancing could be made in the interest of health and safety. Tests were conducted on a closed course, with the licensing agent providing instruction outside the vehicle.

Effective June 6th, the MVA will return to the pre-COVID driver skill tests, with applicants completing both a closed course portion to test basic control of the vehicle, during which the driver’s licensing agent will be outside the vehicle, as well as the on-road portion to further evaluate driving skills, with the agent in the vehicle. The MVA began notifying applicants last month to ensure they had advance notice to prepare for both portions of the test.

During the on-road portion of the test, it is strongly encouraged to improve the ventilation in the vehicle if possible, by opening the windows or setting the air ventilation/air conditioning on non-recirculation mode. If customers are not feeling well, they are strongly encouraged to reschedule their appointment.

Customers and staff are not required to wear masks inside testing vehicles, at branch officers, or VEIP stations statewide, however, face coverings are strongly recommended for those who have not been vaccinated. Customers and employees who have been vaccinated may wear a mask during testing if they prefer to do so.