Driving news: Maryland
Maryland's driver education gets its first full update since 2017
Every licensed Maryland driving school teaches the MVA's 2026 Driver Education Curriculum to new classes that start on or after October 5, 2026. It is the first comprehensive update since 2017.
- Oct. 5, 2026new classes from
- Since 2017first full update
- Work zonesa new topic
What changes
The course adds material on work-zone safety, updated content on the technology in today's cars and new safety videos. The MVA developed it with safety advocates and driving schools across Maryland.
The practice guide
The Rookie Driver practice guide for coaches and drivers was updated too: a new steering section, the right use of backup cameras and a section on driving through work zones. The MVA says it keeps the same safety standards and requirements.
What stays the same
The steps to a Maryland license do not change: the learner's permit, driver education, supervised practice and the tests. The update changes what the course teaches and how.
What to do now
If you start driver education this fall, your class uses the new curriculum. Read the updated practice guide with the adult who drives with you, especially its parts on work zones and car technology.
Related Road to Permit guides
Official sources
- Maryland MVA — Moore-Miller Administration Announces Updated Curriculum for New Drivers
- Maryland MVA — Updates to Maryland Rookie Driver: A Practice Guide for Coaches & Drivers
Independent study resource. Road to Permit is not affiliated with or endorsed by any DMV, DPS, FLHSMV or other government agency. Official state sources control if information changes.