This comprehensive guide to Maryland traffic laws provides clear, actionable explanations of the most commonly searched driving rules in the Old Line State. Whether you're navigating I-95 through Baltimore, I-270 to Frederick, the Capital Beltway (I-495), or the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, understanding Maryland-specific traffic regulations helps you stay safe and avoid costly violations. From double yellow line rules to automated speed cameras, school bus stop requirements, Move Over Law, HOV lanes, red light cameras, toll violations, and DUI regulations—every section references the official Maryland Transportation Code and guidance from the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) and Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT). This is educational information, not legal advice; always obey posted signs, signals, and directions from law enforcement.
Maryland highways including I-95, I-270, I-495 Beltway, and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge require strict adherence to lane markings and traffic laws.
In Maryland, double solid yellow centerlines mark a no-passing zone where vehicles traveling in either direction are prohibited from crossing into the opposing lane to overtake another vehicle. According to Maryland Transportation Code § 21-304, these markings appear on curves, hills, intersections, bridges, and areas where sight distance is limited. Violating this law can result in fines ranging from $90 to $500, plus 3 points on your Maryland driving record and potential insurance premium increases. Maryland State Police and local law enforcement actively enforce no-passing zones on I-95, I-270, US-50, rural highways, and mountain roads throughout Western Maryland including I-68 and routes near Deep Creek Lake.
Legal Exceptions: When You May Cross Double Yellow Lines in Maryland
Maryland law recognizes several limited exceptions where drivers may legally cross double solid yellow lines:
Left turns into driveways and private roads: You may cross double yellow lines when making a left turn into a residential driveway, business entrance, alley, or private property access, provided it is safe and no oncoming traffic is present.
Avoiding obstructions: When a temporary obstruction blocks your lane—such as a disabled vehicle, fallen tree, road debris, or construction equipment—you may briefly cross the centerline if the opposing lane is clear and the maneuver can be done safely.
Following official directions: When law enforcement officers, traffic control personnel, emergency responders, or construction flaggers direct you to cross the centerline, you must follow their instructions.
These exceptions do not permit passing slow-moving vehicles, farm equipment, or congestion. The maneuver must be necessary, brief, and safe for all road users.
The Baltimore-Washington corridor features some of the nation's busiest interstates including I-95 (connecting Delaware to Virginia), I-495 (Capital Beltway around Washington D.C.), and I-270 (to Frederick). While these highways primarily use white lane markings, double yellow lines are prevalent on entrance/exit ramps, connector roads, and transitional areas. Maryland State Police maintains high visibility on these corridors and issues citations for improper lane changes and passing violations. During peak traffic hours (6-10 AM and 3-7 PM), enforcement is particularly strict. The I-95/I-495 interchange near College Park and the I-270 spur to I-495 are common enforcement zones.
Western Maryland Mountain Roads: I-68 & Appalachian Highway Safety
Western Maryland mountain roads including I-68, US-40, US-219, and routes near Cumberland, Frostburg, Oakland, and Deep Creek Lake feature extensive double yellow line no-passing zones due to steep grades, sharp curves, and limited sight distance. These scenic routes attract tourists year-round, with heavy traffic during ski season (December-March) and summer recreation months. Maryland State Police conducts regular enforcement sweeps, particularly on US-219 through Garrett County. Mountain road violations often result in higher fines due to the increased risk of head-on collisions.
Maryland law prohibits passing across double yellow lines but allows left turns into driveways when safe.
Maryland Right Turn on Red & Traffic Signal Laws
Maryland Transportation Code § 21-202: Right on Red After Complete Stop
Maryland law permits right turns on red signals after coming to a complete stop at the stop line, crosswalk, or intersection edge, unless a "NO TURN ON RED" sign prohibits it. Before turning, drivers must:
Come to a full stop—your vehicle must reach zero miles per hour
Yield to pedestrians in or approaching the crosswalk
Yield to all vehicles and cyclists with the right-of-way
Check for "NO TURN ON RED" signs, which may apply at all times or during specific hours
Rolling through the stop or blocking the crosswalk is a common violation. Maryland courts treat incomplete stops seriously, with fines typically ranging from $90 to $140 plus court costs and 1-3 points on your license.
Montgomery County & Baltimore City: Extensive No Turn on Red Zones
Montgomery County (including Rockville, Silver Spring, Bethesda, and Wheaton) has one of the nation's most extensive "NO TURN ON RED" networks. Hundreds of intersections prohibit right turns on red to protect pedestrian safety in dense urban areas. Similarly, Baltimore City intersections near the Inner Harbor, Johns Hopkins University, and downtown business districts frequently post "NO TURN ON RED" signs. Always read supplemental plaques beneath signs—some restrictions apply only during peak hours such as "NO TURN ON RED 7-9 AM / 4-7 PM MON-FRI."
Left Turn on Red in Maryland: One-Way to One-Way Streets
Maryland permits left turns on red from one-way streets onto other one-way streets, provided you come to a complete stop, yield to pedestrians and traffic, and no sign prohibits the turn. This scenario occurs primarily in Baltimore's downtown grid of one-way streets and certain areas of downtown Annapolis. Before attempting a left turn on red, verify that both streets are one-way in the appropriate directions and check for prohibitive signage.
Maryland Red Light Cameras & Automated Enforcement
Maryland operates one of the nation's most extensive automated red light camera programs. Cameras are deployed at high-violation intersections throughout Baltimore City, Montgomery County, Prince George's County, and other jurisdictions. Cameras photograph vehicles entering intersections on red signals, including those making illegal right turns without stopping. Citations arrive by mail and carry fines of $75 (no points assessed). Maryland law requires posted warning signs upstream of camera-enforced intersections. Always make a complete, documented stop before turning right on red. If cited, review photographic evidence carefully—you have the right to contest the ticket through administrative hearing.
Yellow Light Duration & Maryland Signal Timing Standards
Maryland traffic signals follow MDOT and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) guidelines for yellow (amber) light timing, typically 3-5 seconds depending on intersection speed limits and approach geometry. If you are already in the intersection when the light turns red, complete your movement safely. Entering on yellow is legal if you cannot stop safely; entering on red is a violation subject to citation or camera enforcement.
Pedestrian Crossing Signals: WALK & DON'T WALK in Maryland
Many Maryland intersections feature pedestrian countdown signals showing time remaining to cross. Drivers turning right on red must yield to pedestrians even if the pedestrian signal shows "DON'T WALK" or a countdown— pedestrians already in the crosswalk have the right-of-way under Maryland Transportation Code § 21-502. Failure to yield carries fines up to $500 and 3 points, plus potential civil liability if an accident occurs.
In Maryland, always stop fully and yield to pedestrians before making a right turn on red.
Maryland School Bus Stop Laws & Severe Penalties
Maryland Transportation Code § 21-706: Stopping for School Buses
Maryland enforces strict school bus stop laws to protect children. When a school bus activates flashing red lights and extends its stop arm, the following rules apply under Maryland Transportation Code § 21-706:
Undivided roads (no median): All vehicles traveling in both directions must stop and remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing and the stop arm retracts.
Divided highways (physical median or barrier): Only traffic traveling in the same direction as the bus must stop. Opposing traffic on the other side of a physical divider may proceed cautiously.
Multi-lane roads without median: All lanes in both directions must stop. Painted turn lanes or double yellow lines do not count as physical dividers.
Passing a stopped school bus is a serious violation in Maryland. First-offense penalties include fines of$570, 3 points on your license, and significantly increased insurance rates. Subsequent offenses carry fines up to $1,000 and possible license suspension.
Maryland School Bus Camera Programs: Stop-Arm Enforcement
Many Maryland school districts equip buses with exterior stop-arm cameras that record license plates of vehicles illegally passing stopped buses. Video footage is reviewed by local police or Maryland State Police, who issue citations to registered owners. Camera-based enforcement has increased significantly throughout Baltimore County, Montgomery County, Prince George's County, Anne Arundel County, and other jurisdictions. Expect strict enforcement during morning (7-9 AM) and afternoon (2-4 PM) school hours.
Flashing Yellow vs Flashing Red School Bus Signals
Maryland school buses first activate flashing yellow lights approximately 200 feet before the intended stop to warn drivers that the bus is preparing to stop for children. You should slow down and prepare to stop but are not yet legally required to do so. Once the flashing red lights activate and the stop arm extends, you must come to a complete stop. Do not proceed until the red lights stop flashing, the stop arm retracts, and children are clear of the roadway.
Enhanced Penalties for School Bus Violations Causing Injury
Maryland imposes severe penalties if a school bus violation results in injury or death. Violations causing serious bodily injury can result in up to 1 year imprisonment and $2,000 fines. If a violation causes death, penalties increase to up to 3 years imprisonment and $3,000 fines. These are criminal charges prosecuted separately from traffic citations.
On undivided Maryland roads, all traffic in both directions must stop when a school bus displays flashing red lights.
Maryland Speed Cameras: School Zones & Work Zone Enforcement
Maryland operates automated speed enforcement cameras in two specific locations: school zones andhighway work zones. According to Maryland Transportation Code § 21-809, speed cameras ticket vehicles exceeding the posted speed limit by 12 mph or more. Key provisions include:
School zone cameras: Operate on school days during limited hours (typically 6 AM-8 PM, or as posted). Cameras must be within half a mile of a school.
Work zone cameras: Operate only when workers are present in highway construction or maintenance zones.
Fine amount: $40 per violation (no points assessed on driver's license)
Registered owner liability: Citations are sent to the vehicle's registered owner, regardless of who was driving.
Warning signs required: Maryland law requires advance warning signs before camera-enforced zones.
Maryland's basic speed law requires drivers to operate at speeds reasonable and prudent for current road, traffic, and weather conditions. Statutory speed limits include:
US-50 (Ocean City route): Varies from 50-65 mph depending on section
Always obey posted signs, which supersede default limits. Speed limits can change frequently based on road conditions, construction, and traffic patterns.
Maryland Point System & License Suspension Thresholds
Maryland uses a point system administered by the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). Points for common violations:
1-9 mph over limit: 1 point
10-19 mph over limit: 2 points
20-29 mph over limit: 2 points
30-39 mph over limit: 5 points
40+ mph over limit: 5 points
Reckless driving: 6 points
School bus violation: 3 points
Accumulating 8-11 points triggers a warning letter or driver improvement program requirement. Accumulating 12 or more points results in license suspension. Points remain on your record for 2 years from the date of violation. Drivers can attend a state-approved defensive driving course to reduce points by up to 3 points once every 3 years.
I-95 Corridor Speed Enforcement: Baltimore to Delaware Line
Maryland State Police maintains aggressive speed enforcement on I-95, particularly between Baltimore and the Delaware state line through Cecil County, Harford County, and Baltimore County. Common enforcement zones include:
I-95 north of Baltimore approaching the Fort McHenry Tunnel
I-95 through Harford County (Bel Air area)
I-95 approaching the Susquehanna River bridge
I-270 corridor from I-495 to Frederick
Troopers use stationary radar, mobile patrol, and aircraft speed enforcement. The posted limit on most of I-95 in Maryland is 65 mph, with some sections allowing 70 mph. Speed camera tickets (when in work zones) cost $40; officer-issued speeding tickets carry higher fines plus points.
Chesapeake Bay Bridge Speed & Traffic Rules
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge (US-50/301) connecting the Western Shore to the Eastern Shore has a posted speed limit of 55 mph in most sections. Maryland Transportation Authority Police enforce this limit strictly, particularly during peak summer weekends when beach traffic is heavy. Additional rules include:
No stopping on the bridge except for emergencies
Stay in your lane—lane changes prohibited in many sections
Oversized vehicles and hazardous materials have special restrictions
High winds may close the bridge to certain vehicles
HOV Lanes: I-270 & US-50 Carpool Restrictions
Maryland operates High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes on I-270 north of I-495 and US-50 westbound approaching Annapolis. HOV lanes typically require 2+ or 3+ occupants (check posted signs). HOV lane restrictions apply during peak commute hours (typically 6-9 AM eastbound/southbound and 3:30-6:30 PM westbound/northbound). Violating HOV restrictions carries fines of $100-$500 and 1 point. Double solid white lines separate HOV lanes—crossing is prohibited except at designated entry/exit points marked with dashed lines.
Maryland DUI Laws & Ignition Interlock Requirements
Maryland Transportation Code § 21-902: Driving Under the Influence & Driving While Impaired
Maryland prohibits operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher (DUI) or 0.07% (DWI - Driving While Impaired) for drivers 21 and over. Maryland's unique dual-offense structure means:
DUI (0.08% BAC or higher): More serious charge with higher penalties
DWI (0.07-0.079% BAC): Lesser charge but still carries significant penalties
Zero tolerance for under 21: 0.02% BAC or higher triggers penalties for drivers under 21
Commercial drivers: 0.04% BAC limit
Even if your BAC is below the legal limit, you can still be charged if alcohol or drugs have impaired your ability to drive safely.
First-Offense DUI Penalties in Maryland
A first-time DUI conviction in Maryland carries:
Jail time: Up to 1 year
Fines: Up to $1,000
License suspension: 6 months (45 days may be modified to work/school permit)
12 points assessed (triggers suspension)
Mandatory alcohol education or treatment program
Possible ignition interlock device (IID) requirement
First-offense DWI (0.07-0.079% BAC) penalties are less severe: up to 60 days jail, $500 fine, 60-day suspension, and 8 points.
Maryland Implied Consent Law & Refusing Breath Tests
Under Maryland's implied consent law (Transportation Code § 16-205.1), by driving on Maryland roads you automatically consent to chemical testing (breath, blood, or urine) if lawfully arrested for DUI/DWI. Refusing the test results in automatic administrative penalties:
First refusal: 270-day suspension (120 days minimum before restricted license eligible)
Second refusal within 5 years: 2-year suspension
Refusal carries 12 points on your record
Refusal does not prevent prosecution—the state can still charge you with DUI/DWI based on officer observations, field sobriety tests, and other evidence. Refusal can be used against you in court.
Maryland Ignition Interlock Device Program
Maryland's ignition interlock program allows certain DUI/DWI offenders to drive with an installed breath-testing device. An IID is a breath-testing device connected to your vehicle's ignition system. The engine will not start unless you provide a breath sample below the programmed limit (typically 0.02% BAC). Maryland IID requirements:
Mandatory for repeat offenders
May be required for first-time offenders with BAC 0.15% or higher
Available to participate in lieu of full suspension
Must use MVA-approved IID provider
Installation, monitoring, and removal costs (typically $70-$150/month) paid by participant
Attempting to circumvent the device or having someone else blow into it is a criminal offense that can result in additional jail time and license revocation.
Maryland Move Over Law & Emergency Vehicle Regulations
Maryland Transportation Code § 21-405: Move Over Law for Emergency Vehicles
Maryland's Move Over Law requires drivers approaching stationary emergency vehicles, tow trucks, service vehicles, or utility vehicles displaying flashing lights to:
On multi-lane roads: Make a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the stopped vehicle if it is safe to do so, OR reduce speed to a reasonable and prudent speed that is safe for existing weather, road, and vehicular or pedestrian traffic conditions.
On two-lane roads: Slow down to a reasonable and prudent speed that is safe and be prepared to stop.
Covered vehicles include police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, Maryland Transportation Authority vehicles, MDOT maintenance vehicles, tow trucks, and utility vehicles displaying amber, blue, red, or white flashing lights. Violations carry fines up to $500 and 1 point on your license. If the violation results in bodily injury, fines increase to $750; if it causes death, fines reach $1,500.
Maryland Emergency Vehicle Right-of-Way Laws
When an emergency vehicle approaches with audible siren and visible flashing lights, Maryland law requires you to immediately pull over to the right edge of the roadway and stop until the emergency vehicle passes (Transportation Code § 21-405). This applies to police cars, fire trucks, and ambulances. Never stop in an intersection—proceed through the intersection and then pull to the right. Failure to yield to emergency vehicles carries fines and points on your license.
Maryland Tow Truck & Service Vehicle Protections
Maryland's Move Over Law explicitly protects tow truck operators and highway service vehicles. When you see amber flashing lights ahead on the highway shoulder, you must move over or slow down. This applies on busy interstates like I-95, I-495, and I-270 where tow trucks frequently assist disabled vehicles. Failure to move over for tow trucks has resulted in numerous serious injuries and fatalities—Maryland takes enforcement seriously.
This guide summarizes common Maryland traffic rules based on the Maryland Transportation Code and MVA guidance. It is not legal advice. Always follow posted signs, signals, and instructions from law enforcement. Consult an attorney for specific legal questions or if you are facing traffic citations or criminal charges.
