Maryland Permit Test Languages: 17 Options Including ASL and Spanish

Yes, you can take the Maryland permit test in a language other than English. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) offers the knowledge exam in 17 languages, including American Sign Language (ASL).

Which 17 Languages Does Maryland MVA Offer for the Permit Test?

MVA provides the Class C learner's permit test in 17 languages. You select your language directly on the testing kiosk screen or online via myMVA eServices.

For the permit test in Spanish, select 'Espaol' at the kiosk for full text translation. The Plain Language English version uses simplified phrasing with significantly higher pass rates.

The Maryland permit test language options are identical across all MVA branches statewide.

• American Sign Language test displays a video model signing each question on-screen.
• Traditional Chinese uses complex characters, not simplified script.
• Farsi (Persian) follows Dari dialect conventions used in official government translations.

Download the Maryland Driver's Manual in English, Spanish, Traditional Chinese, Vietnamese, French, Korean, or Nepali to study the exact terminology used on the exam.

How to Select a Test Language or Audio Option at Maryland MVA

Language selection is built into the testing process at MVA branches and online. No advance paperwork is required for the 17 standard languages.

• At a Branch: Choose your language from the menu on the automated kiosk screen before starting.
• Online Test: Select your language when accessing the Maryland permit test online through your myMVA account.
• Audio Test (Oral Test): An audio read-aloud via headphones is available as an accommodation, primarily in English. Schedule oral tests by appointment at any MVA branch.

If you need an oral test, call the MVA's scheduling line at 1-410-768-7000 before your visit to book an appointment. Walk-in oral tests are rarely available at busy branches like Gaithersburg.

Practice the test format beforehand using the Maryland Online Driver Test Tutorial in your chosen language. The tutorial mimics the actual computerized interface you'll see at the branch.

Maryland MVA Interpreter Rules: Approved Providers, ASL, No Family

Maryland MVA prohibits family members and personal acquaintances from serving as interpreters during any part of the permit knowledge test. Only MVA-approved phone interpreters or certified ASL video relay interpreters are permitted.

• Personal Interpreters: Generally not allowed for the knowledge test. MVA requires you to attempt the automated test in your native language first. You must fail the computerized test at least five (5) times in your chosen language before MVA may authorize a human interpreter.
• Dictionaries & Devices: All electronic devices, paper dictionaries, and translators are strictly prohibited. Possession during the test results in automatic failure.
• Approved Interpreters: If you qualify for a human interpreter after five failures, MVA provides access to approved interpreters on the quarterly list published by MVA.

To become an approved interpreter, submit DL-200 form, DL-201 certification, and DL-202 background check to mva.interpreter@mva.maryland.gov.

The test content is officially translated and identical across all languages. Some applicants at the Glen Burnie branch reported that certain technical terms in Vietnamese or Farsi can differ from colloquial use.

Complete at least three full online practice tests in your chosen language to identify any unfamiliar official phrasing. This prevents surprises and failure on test day.

Does Maryland Require English Fluency After Passing in Another Language?

While the multilingual permit test helps you pass the written exam, road signs and official communication in Maryland are in English.

Familiarity with key English terms like 'Yield,' 'Merge,' 'Detour,' and 'Pedestrian Crossing' is essential for safe driving. All driving skills tests are conducted in English by a licensed examiner.

An applicant in Silver Spring passed the foreign language driving test in Arabic but failed the road test twice. They misunderstood the examiner's English instructions for 'parallel parking' and 'three-point turn.' They spent an extra $100 on additional behind-the-wheel lessons focused on English driving commands.

When practicing driving, have your supervisor give directions in English using standard terms from the Maryland driver's handbook. This builds familiarity before your skills test.

Honestly? If English comprehension is a major struggle, focus on learning basic traffic vocabulary before scheduling the road test. Most examiners won't fail you for awkward phrasing, but they need to confirm you understand critical safety instructions.