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Getting a license suspension in Maryland could mean shelling out thousands in fines, jail time and the dreaded poor driving record that drives up your insurance premium. But avoid the problem altogether by paying your traffic ticket or opting for a special program for DUI offenses.
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) sends a suspension notice by mail after it’s notified of your excessive points or traffic violation. While this letter is the official notice, you could call the MVA Customer Service at 410-768-7000 with questions about your suspension.
Maryland includes many of the same reasons for suspension as other states. But a few uncommon ways involve not paying a traffic ticket within 30 days or child support within 60 days. Other reasons for license suspension:
You’ll need to return your driver’s license to the MVA by the date listed, and complete your term of no driving. You might also be required to take an approved defensive driving course. Don’t drive without a license during this period to avoid criminal charges.
However, you can appeal the license suspension by requesting a hearing. To do that, fill out the hearing request section on your suspension notice. Then, send the request along with the required fee within 15 days of the notice’s date. The Office of Administrative Hearings will let you know details about your hearing.
No, you’re not legally allowed to drive with a suspended license in Maryland. If you do, you may have to serve jail time and pay extra fines, depending on the severity or number of your offenses.
For example, a first-time offender might pay $1,000 and serve up to a year in jail. Another offense can increase jail time up to two years.
In some situations, you can avoid or immediately lift a suspension by paying for your traffic ticket or child support.
If you received a DUI suspension, you might qualify for the Ignition Interlock Program. This program allows drivers charged with a DUI to continue driving, but they must use a breathalyzer to confirm they’re not impaired first. If the test confirms alcohol levels are too high, the ignition interlock system won’t let the vehicle start.
Before applying for reinstatement, you should have served your suspension and met any requirements outlined by your suspension notice or judge in court. Then, you can request your reinstatement either by phone or in person:
To get the reinstatement process going, follow these steps:
You can drive your car once you’ve received approval for a reinstated license and have received your new license through the MVA.
If you opted for the Ignition Interlock Program to avoid a DUI suspension, you can drive as soon as the system is installed and you receive your restricted driver’s license.
Because drivers with a suspended license can’t drive at all in this state, you might only need coverage to avoid a lapse or protect another driver. Maryland doesn’t require SR-22 coverage for high-risk drivers, so that can help you find insurance more easily.
To get a new car insurance policy:
While you might not be driving for a while, find the best insurer for coverage during and after your suspension.
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