Maryland Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
Maryland uses red-light cameras.
Motorists must turn on their headlights if it rains and they are using their windshield wipers.
Maryland has installed X-band RADAR transmitters on overpasses on I-495 (the Washington, DC Beltway),
I-270, and I-95. These will set off RADAR detectors and provide a good place for speed traps since people become accustomed to their RADAR detectors going off at overpasses.
If you are cited for speeding by a Maryland State Trooper and go to court, there is no prosecutor involved--only the police officer, the judge and you.
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Absolute
 |
|
| Urban | 30 mph |
| Rural | *50 mph |
| Four-lane highways | 55 mph |
| Interstates | 65 mph |
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
|
|
|
| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | Yes |
| Photo Radar | No |
| Aircraft | Yes |
| Laser | Yes |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid by mail.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
No
Jury Trial Allowed
|
|
|
| Speeding | No |
| Parking | No |
| Equipment | No |
| DWI | Yes |
Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes
Member of Driver License Compact
Yes
When and Where to File Accident Reports
Accidents involving death or personal injury must be reported immediately to the local authorities and (if the accident is not investigated by the authorities) within 15 days to the Motor Vehicle Administration.
Resident Insurance Requirements
Compulsory insurance law and financial responsibility law.
No-fault insurance law.
Minimum limits: $20,000/40,000/10,000.
Uninsured motorist insurance is required in like amounts.
Regulations
- Open intoxicants are prohibited in the vehicle.
- The BAC level is .08%.
- Maryland has an administrative license suspension law and an implied consent law. The breathalyzer refusal penalty is a 120-day driver's license suspension.
- Personal carry of handguns within a vehicle is prohibited unless the weapons are securely cased, unloaded, and stowed in the trunk; rifles and shotguns may be in plain view but must be unloaded.
- Studded tires are prohibited.
- Tire chains are not required.
- Maryland has a seat belt law with primary enforcement for all front seat occupants.
- Maryland has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 17 years of age. Children under age 4 and weighing less than 40 pounds must use approved car safety seats.
- Maryland has a mandatory motorcycle helmet law.
- Registration must be carried in the vehicle. Insurance card is not required to be carried in the vehicle.
General Information
Telephone: 410/768-7387
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: 911 or 77