District of Columbia Motorist Info

The following information is updated periodically. However, laws and regulations can change between updates. State statutes and local ordinances are the ultimate authorities for these issues.

Speed Limits

Rural Interstates: Cars 55, Trucks 55
Urban Interstates: Cars NA, Trucks NA
Other Limited Access Roads: Cars NA, Trucks NA
(http://www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/speedlimit_laws.html)

These speed limits apply unless a different limit is posted.

Speed limits are absolute–exceeding the speed limit is illegal per se (regardless of whether it was safe under the specific conditions).

Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
Pacing: Yes
Radar: Yes
Vascar: No
Automated Speed Enforcement: Yes
Aircraft: No
Laser: No

DUI / DWI Regulations
Click here for detailed information

Ticket Payment Methods
Consult your ticket or clerk of courts

Trial By Declaration Allowed
No

Discovery
Not found

Jury Trial Allowed
Speeding: Yes, if it goes beyond a “petty offense”
Parking: No
Equipment: No
DWI: Yes

Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes

Member of Driver License Compact
Yes

When and Where to File Accident Reports

Resident Insurance Requirements
Liability insurance is required (although some states allow posting a cash bond or such as an alternative)
Minimum Coverage Required:
Injury to one person: $25,000
All injuries: $50,000
Property Damage: $10,000
Uninsured motorist coverage is required

Phone/Texting Restrictions
Hand-Held Ban: All drivers
All Cell Phone Ban: School bus drivers and learner’s permit holders
Texting Ban: All drivers
Enforcement: Primary: for all offenses
http://www.ncsl.org/research/transportation/cellular-phone-use-and-texting-while-driving-laws.aspx

General Information
Telephone: (202) 737-4404 (option 3, Motor Vehicles), or http://dmv.dc.gov/
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: Not publicized–try 911