I know the basics about planting a tree, but I do have a few questions. The tree is a Red Maple in a 5 gallon pot and it's about 6 feet tall. How long can I keep it in the pot before I plant it? Do I need to do any pruning? How far from a driveway should I plant it so that it will get maximum water for the roots but not damage the cement driveway? Any other hints or suggestions are welcomed!

I'm in zone 5/6


Thank you!

The tree can remain in the pot for a good while if it was approximately 6 feet when you purchased it. Otherwise, if it has grown considerably since you've had it, you should consider transplanting it.
You're supposed to prune bushes after transplanting, but not trees. I would plant the tree a significant distance from the driveway, since the roots will one day become very large and may just push up the driveway. However, it there is very little other foliage or trees in the area, the tree shouldn't have to compete for water, soil, and nutrients. Having said that, I would plant the tree at least 5 feet from the cement.
At this time of the year, I would wait until autumn before I ransplant. The reason is because sap in trees will eventually draw down into the root system in the fall. This will result in less root shock for the tree. After transplanting the tree, you should water it regularly; perhaps even watering the tree twice per day for the first week, then daily for another two weeks. This will allow the tiny root hairs to establish themselves and create a strong watering sytem for years to come.
It would also be beneficial to the tree if you were to buy some of those miracle grow spikes, and hammer one into the ground just outside the perimeter of the root system of the tree. You can estimate this by figuring the height of the tree, (aprx 6 feet) then figure about a 6 foot ring around the base of the tree. This is what the root system should initially aspire to reach, then it will root out in several directions.

good luck as your tree grows to produce a beautiful yard speciman.