Know the Rules
Maryland Traffic Laws at a Glance
Maryland has some of the most specific traffic rules on the East Coast, including a two-tier DUI/DWI system and a full handheld phone ban.
Maryland Point System
Maryland assigns points per conviction under Transportation Code §16-402. Points count within a 2-year rolling window with clear action thresholds.
- 1 point: Minor moving violation not contributing to accident
- 2 points: Speeding 10+ mph over limit, following too closely
- 6 points: Reckless driving
- 8 points: DWI (driving while impaired)
- 12 points: DUI (driving under the influence) — triggers revocation
- 3 pts: warning / 5 pts: DIP required / 8 pts: suspension / 12 pts: revocation
Maryland Speed Limits
Maryland speed limits vary by road type and corridor. Speeding adds points and significantly raises insurance premiums.
- Rural interstates: 65 mph (70 mph on select corridors after studies)
- Urban interstates: 55 mph (some stretches 60 mph)
- Expressway-grade highways: 55–65 mph
- Two-lane roads: typically 50 mph
- Urban streets: 30 mph default
- Speeding 10+ mph over: 2 points on your record
Maryland DUI and DWI
Maryland formally distinguishes DUI from DWI with different BAC levels, point values, and penalties — a system unique on the East Coast.
- DWI: BAC 0.04%–0.07%, or impaired coordination — 8 points
- DUI: BAC 0.08% or higher — 12 points, triggers license revocation
- Under-21 DUI limit: 0.02% BAC (zero tolerance)
- CDL drivers: 0.04% BAC limit
- 5-year look-back for prior convictions — escalating penalties
- Enhanced penalties if minor passenger present in vehicle
Maryland Distracted Driving Laws
Maryland bans all handheld phone use for all drivers, with a stricter texting misdemeanor on top. Drivers under 18 face suspension risk.
- Handheld phone ban: applies to all drivers at all times
- 1st violation: up to $75 / 2nd: up to $125 / 3rd+: up to $175
- Handheld points added only if violation contributed to accident
- Texting while driving: misdemeanor, up to $500 fine, 1 point regardless of accident
- Drivers under 18: up to 90-day suspension for distracted driving violations
- Emergency calls to 911 are permitted exceptions
Important: What This Course Can and Cannot Do in Maryland
Driver Improvement Program (DIP) requires MVA-approved course: Maryland's DIP — triggered at 5 or more points or by court order — must be completed at an MVA-approved program. Our online course may not qualify. Confirm with the Maryland MVA or your attorney before enrolling if a mandatory DIP is involved.
No voluntary point reduction: Completing this course will not remove existing points from your Maryland driving record. Points expire 2 years from the date of violation.
Insurance discount is the reliable benefit: Most major Maryland insurers accept our certificate for a premium discount of 5 to 15%. Contact your insurer to confirm eligibility before enrolling.
Simple Process
How It Works
Complete your Maryland course in four easy steps from any device.
Enroll Online
Create your account and enroll in minutes — no paperwork or classroom required.
Complete the Course
Work through self-paced content. Stop and resume any time on any device.
Get Your Certificate
Download or print your certificate immediately after completing all modules.
Claim Your Discount
Submit your certificate to your Maryland insurer to activate your premium discount.
Why Choose Us
Benefits of Our Maryland Course
Real value for Maryland drivers beyond just a completion certificate.
Insurance Savings
Most Maryland insurers offer 5–15% off for completing an approved defensive driving course. With MD's average rate near $2,000/year, that's significant savings.
100% Online & Self-Paced
No classroom, no fixed schedule. Access the course 24/7 on any device at your own pace.
Maryland Law Coverage
Content covers Maryland's DUI/DWI two-tier system, full handheld phone ban, point thresholds (§16-402), and Maryland-specific speed rules.
Defensive Driving Skills
Practical techniques for Maryland roads — navigating the Baltimore Beltway, I-95 corridor speed enforcement, and urban driving in Annapolis and Rockville.
Instant Certificate
Your certificate is ready for download the moment you finish the course. No waiting for mail or processing.
Friendly Support
Our team is available 7 days a week by phone, chat, and email to help with your Maryland enrollment and certificate.
Questions Answered
Maryland Defensive Driving FAQ
The most common questions Maryland drivers ask before enrolling.
Real Reviews
What Maryland Drivers Are Saying
Maryland drivers who've completed the course and put their certificate to work.
"I wanted to lower my insurance after getting a speeding ticket on I-95. My Baltimore insurer accepted the certificate without any hassle and my rate dropped noticeably at renewal."
"The section explaining Maryland's DUI versus DWI distinction was genuinely informative — I had no idea the two were separate charges with different point values. Glad I took the course."
"Completed it over a weekend afternoon. The course was clear about what it can and can't do in Maryland, which I respected. Submitted the certificate to my insurer and got the discount confirmed."
