MARYLAND

Driver’s Manual
For more information, visit:
mva.maryland.gov
6601 Ritchie Highway N.E.
Glen Burnie, MD 21062

410-768-7000
TTY for the Hearing Impaired: 1-800-492-4575

MarylandMVA
MD_MVA

DL-002 (07-22)
Administrator’s Message

Dear Future Motorist:

You are about to begin your journey of getting a Maryland driver’s license. While this is an
exciting time for any new driver, it is important to remember that driving is a privilege, and you
play a role in ensuring that all drivers remain safe on our roadways.

Be the Driver Who Saves Lives

As you travel Maryland’s roadways, you will encounter drivers of different ages and skill levels,
and varying modes of transportation. But we all have one thing in common – a personal
responsibility to each other – to Be the Driver Who Saves Lives.
As a new driver, it is very important to take your time, understand the rules of the road, listen and
learn from your teachers and instructors and be thoughtful of your fellow drivers and passengers
out on our roads. Like any other new skill you are learning, you will get better at driving with
more experience on different roadways, under varying conditions and in different environments.
Each of us has a responsibility every time we get behind the wheel to choose to drive focused
and sober, wear a seat belt, follow the posted speed limits, look twice for motorcycles, and
share the road with pedestrians and bicyclists. It is up to you to make safe choices behind the
wheel. Unfortunately, every day, thousands of drivers make the decision to drive distracted or
impaired, speed, or take their aggression out on other road users, putting themselves and others
at risk. We all need to look out for each other.
It is our commitment at the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration
(MDOT MVA) to promote driver safety. Our goal in Maryland is to reach zero fatalities on
Maryland roadways, because even one life lost is an unnecessary tragedy.
After reading this manual, test YOUR knowledge of the rules of the road and take our Online
Driver Test Tutorial located on the MDOT MVA website, mva.maryland.gov.
We look forward to serving you.

Stay safe,

Administrator, MDOT MVA

Table of Contents

Section 1: Driving Tests Requirements . . . 7 Section 4: Traffic Signals: Signs, Signals

A. Vision Screening............................................................. 7 and Pavement Markings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
B. Knowledge Test.............................................................. 7 A. Traffic Signals................................................................... 17
C. Driving Skills Test............................................................. 7 Vehicle Signals................................................................ 17
D. Reportable Medical Conditions................................. 8 PHB Signals..................................................................... 19
B. Traffic Signs...................................................................... 20
Section 2: Licensing Requirements Colors................................................................................ 20
and Process. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Shapes.............................................................................. 20
A. Rookie Driver/Graduated Regulatory Signs............................................................. 21
Licensing System ................................................................ 9 Warning Signs................................................................ 22
B. Learner’s Instructional Permit ....................................... 9 Other Traffic Sign Types................................................ 23
C. Provisional License.......................................................... 10 C. Highway Pavement Markings..................................... 24
D. Driver’s License................................................................ 10 Types of Line Markings.................................................. 24
E. Co-Signer of Minor’s Application for a License...... 10 Other Pavement Markings............................................ 25
F. Cancellation of Minor’s License Pedestrian and Bicycle Pavement Markings............ 25
on Request of Co-Signer.............................................. 11
G. Out-of-Country Licenses............................................... 11
Section 5: Driving Situations
H. Equity for All Customers................................................ 11 and Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
A. Driving in Reduced Visibility......................................... 27
Section 3: Basic Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 B. Driving at Night............................................................... 27
A. Drive Defensively............................................................ 13 C. Driving in Fog................................................................... 28
B. Right-of-Way................................................................... 13 D. Driving in Inclement Weather....................................... 28
C. Understanding Vehicle Speed..................................... 14 E. Skidding............................................................................ 29
D. Following Distance......................................................... 15 F. Hydroplaning.................................................................. 30
E. Stopping Distance.......................................................... 15 G. Highway-Railroad Crossings....................................... 30
F. Lane Driving..................................................................... 15 H. Work Zone Safety.......................................................... 30
G. Turning............................................................................... 15 I. Roundabouts.................................................................... 31
H. U-turn................................................................................ 15 J. Interstate Driving............................................................. 32
I. Passing.............................................................................. 16 K. Funeral Processions........................................................ 32
J. General Parking Rules................................................... 16 L. Slow Moving Vehicles................................................... 32
Section 6: Dangerous Driving Section 10: Other Important
Behaviors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
A. Alcohol, Drugs and Driving.......................................... 33 A. Medical Conditions to Report to MDOT MVA....... 51
B. Aggressive Driving and Road Rage .......................... 34 B. Supervising Driver – Requirements and
C. Distracted Driving........................................................... 34 Responsibilities................................................................ 51
D. Drowsy Driving................................................................ 35 C. Organ Donor.................................................................. 51
D. Register to Vote............................................................... 52
Section 7: Sharing the Road. . . . . . . . . . . . 37 E. Insurance Requirements................................................. 52
A. Pedestrian Right-of-Way............................................... 37 F. Seat Belt Law................................................................... 52
B. Emergency Vehicles....................................................... 37 G. Child Safety Seats.......................................................... 52
C. Large Trucks...................................................................... 38 H. Air Bags............................................................................ 52
D. School Vehicles............................................................... 39 I. Braking with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)........... 52
E. Motorcycles.................................................................... 39 J. Wearing of Headsets, Earphones
and Earplugs Prohibited................................................ 53
F. Bicycles............................................................................. 40
K. Parallel Parking................................................................ 53
G. Mopeds and Scooters.................................................. 41
L. Pull-In Parking, Back-In Parking, and
H. Understanding Vehicle Technologies......................... 41
Three-Point Turnabout ................................................... 53
M.Rules and Tips for Bicyclists........................................... 53
Section 8: Crashes and Traffic Stops. . . . . 43
N. Electric Low Speed Vehicles (Definitions) ................ 54
A. Crashes............................................................................. 43
B. Roadside Emergencies ................................................. 44
C. Traffic Stops..................................................................... 45
D. Move Over Law............................................................. 45

Section 9: Other Restrictions, Violations

and Penalties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
A. Restrictions........................................................................ 47
B. Notice to Applicant – Implied Consent.................... 47
C. Obtaining a False or Forged Identification Card,
Driver’s License or Learner’s Instructional Permit....... 48
D. Administrative Actions.................................................... 48
E. Sanctions.......................................................................... 49
F. Use of Disability Parking Spaces,
License Plates and Placards......................................... 50
 Meet the drivers who
are saving lives in Maryland.

Caucasian male
Caucasian male
Caucasian male
Caucasian male
Latin Male Latin Male Latin Male LatinLatin
Malefemale
Latin female Latin female Latin female
Asian female Bar tender
Asian female Asian female Bar tender
Asian female African
African
American
American
MaleMale Caucasian
Caucasian
female
female

Throughout the manual, our “Be the Driver” mascots will tell you
about Maryland’s safe driving campaigns, and provide important
safety tips!

For more information on the “Be the Driver” campaign, visit:

ZeroDeathsMD.gov.
SECTION 1: Driving Tests Requirements

Licensing requirements include a vision screening, Typically, the test is offered in an automated format
a knowledge test, and a driving skills test on the with an allotted completion time.
satisfactory operation of a motor vehicle. In special An Online Driver Test Tutorial is available on the
circumstances, the Maryland Department of MDOT MVA’s website. The tutorial is a good
Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MDOT study tool since it contains a sample of topics for
MVA) may find it necessary to require additional the knowledge test. You should also be sure to
examinations to determine the applicant’s ability to study this entire manual to ensure your success
safely operate a motor vehicle. on the knowledge test.

A. Vision Screening C. Driving Skills Test

All Maryland driver’s license applicants must All driving skills tests will be conducted by
pass a vision screening in order to receive a appointment only. The skills test for a driver’s
license. The vision screening may be performed license must be scheduled in advance. Please
by the MDOT MVA, or the applicant’s vision visit MDOT MVA’s website or call 410-768-
specialist. 7000 or 1-800-492-4575 TTY for the deaf and
To qualify for a driver’s license, the applicant hard of hearing to schedule an appointment.
must have: With the health and safety of our customers and
• Binocular vision. employees in mind, during the on-road portion of
the test, the driver’s licensing agent and customer
• Visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye.
will be encouraged to improve the ventilation in
• A continuous field of vision of at least 140 the vehicle if possible — for example, by opening
degrees. the windows or setting the air ventilation/
If corrective lenses are needed to meet the air conditioning on non-recirculation mode.
above standards, a restriction will be included Customers may wear a mask during the test
on the license requiring that corrective lenses be if preferred. Additionally, if customers are not
worn while driving. feeling well, they are encouraged to reschedule
their appointment.
Additional information is available on the MDOT
MVA website for individuals who do not meet In order to be eligible to take a driving test,
the vision standards. certain requirements must be met. The vehicle
must have valid license plates, registration, and
B. Knowledge Test proof of insurance. Additionally, the vehicle
must be in safe operating condition, have no
The knowledge test is designed to check the
cracks or obstructions on the windshield, and
applicant’s knowledge of motor vehicle laws, safe
have at least a half tank of gas.
driving practices and signs. The information on
which the applicant will be tested is in this manual.

7
 The driving test includes on-course maneuvers
and driving on public roads. The test is designed
to assess the applicant’s driving skills and
observance of traffic laws. The vehicle must be
operated in a safe and responsible manner.
A supervising driver (as defined in Section 10)
must accompany the applicant to the test
site. No one other than the applicant, the
examiner(s), and an MDOT MVA-approved
interpreter, if applicable, are permitted in the
vehicle during the test.

D. Reportable Medical Conditions

Prior to applying for or renewing a Learner’s
Instructional Permit or Driver’s License, State law
requires an applicant, who has been diagnosed
with a reportable medical condition, to report
the condition to the MDOT MVA Driver Wellness
and Safety Division. (See Section 10 – Other
Important Information, for a complete listing of
reportable medical conditions.)

8
 Licensing Requirements
SECTION 2: and Process

New applicants must apply in person at an MDOT to apply for a driver’s license of a different
MVA full service office and furnish acceptable class will be required to apply for a Type 2
documentation to prove age and identity, lawful Learner’s Instructional Permit. The Type 2 Learner’s
status, Social Security Number (SSN), or proof Instructional Permit is valid for up to 180 days
of ineligibility for a SSN, and two (2) residency and must be held for a minimum of 14 days
documents. At least one of the identity documents before the applicant is eligible to take the driving
presented must include the applicant’s full name. test for a full license.
Applicants must bring original documents or copies
certified by the issuing agency. Photocopies, notarized Applicants younger than 25:
copies and documents with alterations or erasures will • Must be at least 15 years and 9 months
not be accepted. For a complete listing of acceptable of age.
documents, please visit the MDOT MVA website. • If under age 18, the applicant’s parent or
legal guardian must co-sign the application.
A. Rookie Driver/Graduated
• If under age 16, must present a completed
Licensing System
Learner’s Permit School Attendance
The Rookie Driver/Graduated Driver Licensing Certification form (DL-300).
System (GLS) applies to all new noncommercial
driver’s license applicants, regardless of age. While holding the Learner’s Instructional Permit,
The GLS requires new drivers to gain driving applicants must complete the Maryland Driver
experience, first with a supervising driver while Education Program and accumulate at least
holding a Learner’s Instructional Permit, then 60 practice hours with a supervising driver and
alone with certain restrictions while holding a maintain a Practice and Skills Log. At least 10 of
Provisional License, and then “graduating” to a the practice hours must occur during the period
Driver’s License. beginning 30 minutes before sunset and ending
30 minutes after sunrise. The Practice and Skills
B. Learner’s Instructional Permit Log is available on the MDOT MVA website.
Individuals who have never held a
Applicants 25 years old and older:
noncommercial, Class C, driver’s license are
required to obtain a Type 1 Learner’s Instructional While holding the Learner’s Instructional Permit,
Permit. There are different periods of time the applicants must complete the Maryland Driver
applicant must hold the Permit before being Education Program and accumulate at least
eligible for a Provisional License, depending on 14 practice hours with a supervising driver and
the applicant’s age. The Type 1 Learner’s Permit is maintain a Practice and Skills Log. At least three
valid for up to 2 years. All applicants must pass a (3) of the practice hours must occur during the
vision screening and knowledge test. period beginning 30 minutes before sunset and
ending 30 minutes after sunrise. The Practice
Current driver’s license holders who are at and Skills Log is available on the MDOT MVA
least 16 years and 6 months of age who wish website.

9
 The Permit must be held for a minimum of 45 • Hold a Maryland Learner’s Instructional
days before the applicant is eligible for a Permit violation-free for their required
Provisional License. minimum holding period.
• Not be convicted of any moving violations
Violations
or have been granted probation before
Any applicant, regardless of age, who has judgment for any moving violations during
been convicted of or given a Probation Before their required holding period.
Judgement (PBJ) for a moving violation is
required to hold the permit for a minimum of • Submit a completed and signed Practice and
9 months following the most recent date the Skills Log to document the minimum number
individual was convicted of or granted a PBJ of practice hours with a supervising driver.
for a moving violation, or if they have been • Successfully pass the driving skills test.
suspended for any reason. They must meet the
rest of the above mentioned GLS requirements D. Driver’s License
before they are eligible to take a skills driving test. A Driver’s License is the last stage of the GLS.
For drivers under age 18, the driver must hold To be eligible for a Driver’s License,
the Learner’s Instructional Permit for a minimum applicants must:
of nine (9) months violation-free before being
eligible for a Provisional License. • Be at least 18 years of age.

For drivers age 18 with a high school diploma • Have held the Provisional License for at least
or its equivalent, or age 19 to 24, the driver 18 months.
must hold the Learner’s Instructional Permit for a • Have not been convicted of any moving
minimum of three months violation-free before violations or have been granted probation
being eligible for a Provisional License. before judgment for any moving violations
within the previous 18 months.
C. Provisional License Once the Provisional License holder meets all
A provisional driver’s license is a restricted requirements, the MDOT MVA will automatically
license issued to new drivers who have never convert the Provisional License to a Driver’s
held a driver’s license or who have held a license License. An attachment card, showing the
for less than 18 months conversion, will be mailed to the driver. The card
Applicants who wish to graduate from a Learner’s must be carried with the Provisional License.
Instructional Permit to a Provisional License must:
E. Co-Signer of Minor’s Application for
• Have successfully completed a Maryland
a License
approved driver education program. (A
listing of approved providers may be found Minors, under the age of 18, must have a parent
on the MDOT MVA website.) or legal guardian co-sign their application. Proof
of relationship is required, such as the applicant’s
• Have a valid, unexpired Maryland Learner’s original or certified Birth Certificate reflecting
Instructional Permit. parents, court documents reflecting legal

10
 guardianship, etc. If the applicant is married and • On the letterhead of the translator contracted
proof of marriage is presented, the spouse, if by the State.
over the age of 18, may co-sign the application. All of the above documents must contain the:
If the applicant has no parent, legal guardian or
spouse, an adult employer of the applicant or • Typed/printed name of the translator; AND
other responsible adult may co-sign the minor’s • Telephone number; AND
application. In this case, documentation, such as
• Signature of translator.
the death certificates of the parents or proof of
emancipation is required.
H. Equity for All Customers
F. Cancellation of Minor’s License For Foreign Language Customers
on Request of Co-Signer For our customers that need language services,
The co-signer may cancel the minor’s license MDOT MVA offers several documents and tests
by submitting a written request to the MDOT in other languages including Spanish, Korean,
MVA’s Administrative Adjudication Division. The French, Vietnamese, Nepali, and Traditional
cancellation remains in effect until the minor Chinese. If you have difficulty communicating in
reaches the age of 18, unless a English, you may be able to use an interpreter
co-signer, who meets the above qualifications, when you visit the MDOT MVA, particularly
co-signs and certifies for the minor. when taking a knowledge test or driving test for
a class C or M non-commercial driver’s license.
G. Out-of-Country Licenses If we offer the knowledge test in the language
Individuals who hold an out-of-country license that you speak, you must attempt the knowledge
are required to successfully complete a vision test at least five (5) times before an interpreter
screening, knowledge test, driving skills test, and can be used. If your identity documents and/or
an MDOT MVA approved three-hour alcohol driver’s license is not in English, the document(s)
and drug education program in order to convert must be translated by an MDOT MVA approved
their license to a Maryland license. An up-to- Interpreter/Translator (see section G). A list
date listing of MDOT MVA-approved providers of approved interpreters can be found on
may be found on the MDOT MVA website. our website. NOTE: The MDOT MVA does
If the out-of-country license is not in English, not charge a fee for the use of an interpreter;
it must be accompanied by an International however, you will be responsible for any fees
License, or a translation into English by an that the interpreter may require for their services.
MDOT MVA approved translator. The original During your MDOT MVA visit the in-person
document must accompany the English interpreter and/or translator provider must
translation. Document translations must be: show a valid photo identification card (either
• On a document prepared by an MDOT MVA a state driver’s license or identification card)
approved provider or court translator; OR prior to conducting on-site interpretation and/
or translation services. Additionally, MDOT MVA
• On the letterhead of the embassy of the
country of origin; OR

11
 branch office staff will confirm that interpreter/ Developmental Disability
translator is on our approved list and in good Disclosure Card
standing to provide services. MDOT MVA provides upon request
NOTE: Interpreters providing services for from a customer or parent/guardian, the
knowledge/skills testing are prohibited from Developmental Disability Disclosure Card.
providing other services on behalf of the The blue card is the size of a driver’s license.
customer being tested, such as: certifying It includes space for an individual to provide
residence, conducting the business of a driving details on a developmental disability and gives
school, or issuing lease/rental agreements, etc. guidance on effective communication between
law enforcement officers and people with
Visit our website for a list of approved
developmental disabilities. To obtain a Voluntary
interpreters.
Developmental Disability Disclosure Card,
please visit the information desk at any of our 24
For Customers with Disabilities
branches statewide during normal operational
MDOT MVA has several processes in place to hours to request and obtain a card. MDOT
provide accommodations to its customers taking MDOT MVA will NOT ask customers to disclose
the knowledge and driver’s skills tests, including: or present any documentation of their disability in
• Additional time for test taking. order to obtain this card.
• Sign language support (American Sign
Language and Certified Deaf Interpreters) on
a case by case basis.
• Oral testing.
• MDOT MVA provided Screen Readers.
• MDOT MVA provided Headphones.
• MDOT MVA provided Visual Aids.
Please contact customer service at:
https://feedback.mva.maryland.gov

12
SECTION 3: Basic Driving

Before you drive, both you and your vehicle should • Let other drivers know your intentions by using
be in good condition to drive. You must have a turn signals, etc.
valid learner’s permit/driver’s license and vehicle • Maintain a safe distance between your
registration card in your possession. You should vehicle and other roadway users.
properly adjust your seat and mirrors and ensure that
all passengers are wearing a seat belt. • Do not assume that other drivers will do what
they are supposed to do.
A. Drive Defensively • Use caution at all times.
A basic rule of driving is that, at all times, the
driver of a vehicle on a highway shall control B. Right-of-Way
the vehicle as necessary to avoid a crash. Right-of-way rules provide drivers with guidance
Driving a motor vehicle requires that you take for situations when other drivers or pedestrians
the responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe are present. These rules determine which driver
manner. Doing so will reduce the risks for yourself, should yield the right-of-way and the sequence
your passengers and other roadway users. for entering and driving through an intersection
or other driving scenarios.
Visual Search/Driver Awareness
Although the right-of-way rules provide a guide
To better prepare for the constant decisions to determine who should yield the right-of-way,
necessary for safe, defensive driving, you must no one should assume they automatically have
know what is happening around your vehicle. the right-of-way. The situation and circumstances
Constantly observing your surroundings, to the at the intersection must always be considered.
front, side and rear of your vehicle, helps you
to see problems that may cause you to change You should yield the right-of-way to:
speed or roadway position. • The driver who is at or arrives before you at
By searching ahead and being ready to change the intersection.
speed or change lanes, you can operate a • Drivers in the opposing traffic lane, when you
vehicle more safely and allow yourself time to are making a left turn.
identify risks. • The driver on your right, if both of you arrive
at the intersection at the same time.
Risk Management
Operating a motor vehicle is a risky activity. • Drivers on a public highway, if you are
Consider the following steps to manage risk and entering the highway from a driveway or a
be a safe and responsible driver: private road. (continued)

• Adjust your speed, position, and direction

to respond to roadway conditions, enhance You are responsible for
vehicle control, and increase response time. controlling your vehicle as
necessary to avoid a crash.

13
 • Drivers already on a limited access or Excessive vehicle speed has severe and often
interstate highway, if you are on the entrance times disastrous effects because it:
or acceleration ramp. • Reduces the ability to negotiate curves or
• The driver on your right at a four way maneuver around obstacles in the roadway.
intersection controlled by stop signs. • Extends the distance necessary for a vehicle
• Pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers who to stop.
are still in the intersection. • Decreases the driver’s ability to realize and
• Drivers on the through highway, if you are at react to a hazard or dangerous situation.
a “T” intersection and you are entering the • Increases the risk of crashes because other
through highway by either making a right or roadway users and pedestrians may not be
left turn. able to judge distance accurately.
• Other drivers, if you are approaching an • Increases the force and impact in a crash,
intersection with a yield sign facing you. which more likely results in serious bodily
injuries and deaths.
C. Understanding Vehicle Speed
The posted speed limit is the maximum legal Appropriate Speed for Conditions
speed you can travel on a road under ideal Drivers must recognize and adjust their speed
conditions. Maintaining a safe speed at all times to adverse conditions. Maryland Vehicle Law
is a responsibility shared by all motorists. requires that motorists drive at a reasonable and
It is safest to drive at the same speed that most prudent speed and with a regard for existing and
traffic is moving, up to the maximum speed limit. potential hazards. You may drive slower than the
In fact, traveling at a speed lower than other posted speed limit, based on road conditions,
traffic encourages other vehicles to constantly but it is illegal to drive any faster than the posted
pass you and increases the chances of a crash. speed limit.
Some conditions, which require reduced speed
Speeding for safety, include:
Excessive speed is one of the most common
• Sharp curves or hills – where visibility is
contributing factors of vehicle crashes. Excessive
limited.
speed does not save time and often leads to
high-risk decision-making. • Slippery roads.
• Roads where there may be pedestrians or
animals present.
In areas where you see • Shopping centers, parking lots and
“stay right” signage on the downtown areas.
highway, drive in the right
• Traffic congestion.
hand lane or lanes unless you
are passing a vehicle. • Narrow bridges and tunnels.

14
 • Toll plazas. F. Lane Driving
• Schools, playgrounds and residential streets. Your vehicle should be driven in a single lane.
Do not switch lanes until you determine it is
• Railroad grade crossings.
safe to do so. You should avoid drifting across
lane lines and making lane changes within an
D. Following Distance intersection.
Always maintain a safe distance between your
vehicle and the one ahead of you. Most rear- Generally, you should keep your vehicle to the
end collisions are caused by following too right of the center of the roadway, unless you
closely. A minimum following distance of 3 to are passing another vehicle going in the same
4 seconds is recommended under ideal driving direction, there is a traffic signal designating it
conditions. This means it takes you 3 to 4 seconds is okay to do so, or there is an obstruction that
to get to the same reference point as the car makes it necessary to safely adjust your position.
ahead of you. To determine if you are following
at a safe distance, choose a fixed object ahead, G. Turning
such as a bridge, overpass, sign, mile marker, etc. When turning, you should:
As the car in front of you passes that object, begin • Look for signs and signals that give direction
counting 1 one thousand, 2 one thousand, 3 one on when you can turn.
thousand, etc. If you reach 3 one thousand or
greater before your car reaches the same fixed • Plan your turn before reaching the turning
object, you are at least 3 seconds behind the car point.
in front of you and traveling at a safe distance. • Activate your turn signal in advance to alert
When you are following vehicles which stop other drivers.
often (buses, delivery vans), you should increase • Look behind and to both sides to ensure it is
the distance between your vehicle and the safe to proceed before making a turn.
one ahead of you to four or five seconds, and • Adjust your speed for the turn.
possibly more as needed.
H. U-turn
E. Stopping Distance
U-turns can be extremely dangerous and are
The distance it takes to stop your vehicle is not legal everywhere. If you must make a U-turn,
important to help you choose a safe driving first check to see if U-turns are allowed, and
speed. Your actual stopping distance will then turn on your left turn signal, stop and yield
depend upon many factors, including: for approaching traffic. When the way is clear,
• The length of time it takes a driver to see and proceed into the outside or right-hand lane
recognize that there is a dangerous situation. traveling in the opposite direction.
• The type and condition of the roadway.
• The condition of the tire treads.
• The condition of the brakes.

15
I. Passing • When approaching the top of the hill or on
When passing is permitted, you must: a curve and you do not have a sufficiently
clear view ahead.
• Estimate the time and space necessary to
pass and be sure you can pass without • When crossing or within 100 feet of an
interfering with any other vehicle. intersection or railroad grade crossing.
• Use your turn signal before passing so that • When the view is obstructed upon
you inform other drivers around you of your approaching within 100 feet of any bridge,
intentions. elevated roadway, or tunnel.
• Leave plenty of space and go around the • On the shoulder of the highway either to the
other vehicle at a safe distance. right or to the left.
• See both headlights of the passed vehicle in J. General Parking Rules
your rear view mirror before returning to the
original lane. You are responsible for making sure that your
vehicle is not a hazard when it is parked. A
Generally, you should pass to the left of the parked vehicle must be in a space that is far
other vehicle. However, it is acceptable to pass enough from any travel lane to avoid interfering
on the right if it is safe to do so, you stay on the with traffic and visible to vehicles approaching
roadway, and: from either direction.
• The other vehicle is about to make a left turn. You should always:
• You are on an unobstructed highway with • Park in a designated area as required.
two or more lanes moving in the same
direction. • When parking along the
roadway, park your vehicle
• You are on an unobstructed one-way as far away from traffic
roadway wide enough for two lanes or more. as possible. If there is a
When being passed by another vehicle, you curb, park as close to it as
must yield to the other vehicle and not increase possible.
your speed. • Set your parking brake when you park.
You may not pass: • Place the vehicle in gear if it has a manual
• Where there is a no-passing zone. transmission or in ‘park’ if it has an automatic
transmission.
• Where the solid yellow line is on your side of
the center of the roadway. • Check your mirrors and traffic before
opening the door. Shut the door as soon as
• Where there are double solid yellow lines.
you can after getting out.
• When passing will interfere with the safe
• Take the ignition keys with you. It is a good
operation of oncoming vehicles.
habit to lock the doors whenever you leave
your vehicle.

16
 Signs, Signals and
SECTION 4: Pavement Markings

Traffic signals, signs and pavement markings personnel take priority. Uniformed school crossing
apply to everyone on a roadway or highway, guards also have the authority to direct traffic at
and they are the primary way of regulating, locations near schools.
warning or guiding traffic on all roadways. When a traffic signal is not working, you are now
Failing to obey the traffic control devices is a required to stop at a clearly marked stop line;
major cause of crashes. The driver of a vehicle or if there is no clearly marked stop line, before
approaching an intersection controlled by a entering any crosswalk; or if there is no clearly
traffic control device may not drive across private marked stop line or crosswalk, before entering the
property or leave the roadway for the purpose of intersection, and yield to any vehicle or pedestrian
avoiding a traffic control device. in the intersection; and remain stopped until it is safe
The only exceptions to obeying all traffic control to enter and continue through the intersection. If
devices are emergency situations when directions the street lights are not functioning, be sure to keep
from a police officer or other emergency your headlights on to assist you with visibility and to
ensure others can see you as well.

A. Traffic Signals
Vehicle Signals

1. Steady Red Signal 3. Steady Green Signal

Come to a complete stop at the stop line or, Proceed with caution after you have
if there is no stop line, prior to the crosswalk checked first to see that other vehicles have
and before entering the intersection, and cleared the intersection. When it is safe to
remain stopped as long as the signal is red. proceed, you may enter the intersection to
Unless a sign prohibits turning on red, after go straight-ahead or turn unless a sign or
coming to a complete stop, you may turn right additional signal prohibits the turn. You must
or you may turn left from a one-way street to yield to pedestrians and vehicles already in
another one-way street. When turning on a the intersection.
red signal, you must yield the right-of-way to
pedestrians and all other traffic.
4. Steady Red Arrow Signal
If you intend to move in the direction
2. Steady Yellow Signal indicated by the arrow, come to a
This means that the signal is changing from complete stop before reaching the stop
green to red. Its purpose is to provide time line, crosswalk, or intersection. Remain
for approaching traffic to stop safely and stopped as long as the arrow signal is red.
to clear other vehicles from the intersection
before the signal turns red. If you are too
close to the intersection to stop safely,
continue through the intersection with care.

17
 Vehicle Signals (cont.)

5. Steady Yellow Arrow Signal 10. Lane Use Signals

This means that the movement indicated by These signals are used to control traffic
the arrow is ending. You should slow down flow by reversing a lane’s direction during
and proceed with caution. different hours of the day. The lanes and
their directions may be marked with signs,
signals, and markings.
6. Steady Green Arrow Signal
Proceed with caution in the direction the You must never drive in a lane under a red
arrow points. Remember that you must yield “X” signal.
to all pedestrians and vehicles already You are permitted to drive in a lane under a
in the intersection. green arrow signal.

A steady yellow “X” signal means a driver

7. Flashing Red Signal
should move out of the lane as soon as
Come to a complete stop at the stop line or, safely possible.
if there is no stop line, prior to the crosswalk
and before entering the intersection. Yield A flashing yellow “X” signal or two-way
to all other traffic and pedestrians. Proceed left-turn arrows mean that a driver is
when the way is clear. If an alternately permitted to use the lane for a left turn. It
flashing red signal is located at a railroad is likely that you will be sharing the lane
crossing, you must come to a complete with left-turning vehicles coming from the
stop, even if you do not see a train, and opposite direction.
proceed when the way is clear.

8. Flashing Yellow Signal

You must slow down and proceed with
caution.

9. Flashing Red Arrow Signal

Come to a complete stop before reaching
the stop line, crosswalk, or intersection and
yield to all other traffic and to pedestrians.
Proceed in the direction of the arrow when
the way is clear.

18
 PHB Signals

A Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB) signal is a traffic control device designed to help pedestrians cross
busy streets safely. While it might look different to motorists, the beacon works like any other push-button
pedestrian crossing device at a traffic signal - it alerts drivers to stop, first with a yellow light followed by a
red light; then it alerts pedestrians to cross with the white walk signal.

Pedestrians Motorists

Stop. Push button Proceed. Beacon is

to cross. deactivated.

Flashing yellow.
Wait!
Slow down.

Continue to wait. Solid yellow.

Prepare to stop.

Look both ways.

Start crossing after Solid red. Stop!
traffic has stopped.

Don’t start. Finish

crossing if started. Flashing red. Stop.
Proceed with caution.

Stop. Traffic has

resumed moving.
Proceed with caution.

19
 B. Traffic Signs
Colors

Traffic signs use both symbols and word messages Orange - Construction and maintenance
to convey information to road users. You should be work area warning.
able to quickly identify traffic signs by their shapes and Green - Guidance information: destinations,
colors as well as by the words, numbers, or symbols on distances, and directions.
them. The principal background color of a traffic sign
Blue - Road user services: such as food, gas,
can tell you at first glance what kind of information it rest area signs.
has to offer.
Brown - Recreation and cultural interest areas.
Red - Prohibitive: Stop, yield, do not enter, or Fluorescent Yellow-Green - School,
wrong way. pedestrian and bicycle signs.
Yellow - General warning of what to expect Fluorescent Pink - Emergency traffic
ahead. incidents.
White - Regulatory: such as speed limit, keep Black - Certain regulatory signs, such as One
right, and some guide signs. Way signs, and changeable message signs.

Shapes

The shape of a traffic sign can tell you as much Rectangle: Regulatory or Guide
about the sign’s message as its color. In poor Vertical signs are generally used to give
visibility conditions, such as heavy fog, you may be instructions or tell you the rules of the road. In
the horizontal position, the signs generally give
able to make out only the shape of a sign, which
directions or information.
could convey valuable information.
Pentagon: School Zone and School
Octagon: Stop Crossing
The octagonal (eight-sided) shape always The pentagon (five-sided) shape warns you of
means stop. You must come to a complete stop. school zones and marks school crossings.

Triangle: Yield Round: Railroad Warning

Slow down and, if necessary, stop to give the Used to warn that there is a railroad crossing
right of way to vehicles and pedestrians. ahead.

Diamond: Warning Crossbuck: Highway—Rail Grade

These signs warn you of special conditions or Crossing
hazards ahead. You may have to slow down, Identifies the location of a railroad crossing.
so be ready to take appropriate action.
Trapezoid
Pennant: No Passing Recreation and cultural interest areas and
Indicates the start of a no passing zone. National Forest Routes.

20
 Regulatory Signs

These signs provide notice to road users of traffic laws, and they must be obeyed.

1. 8-Sided Sign, White Letters on Red

The stop sign is the only 8-sided sign you will see on the highway. When you come to a stop
sign, you must make a complete stop at the stop line. If there is no stop line, stop before entering a
crosswalk. If there is no stop line or crosswalk, stop before entering the intersection. Before starting,
you must yield the right-of-way to other vehicles and pedestrians. You may not proceed until it is
safe to do so and until the way is clear to completely pass through the intersection.

2. 3-Sided Sign, Red Letters on White

You will see no other signs of this shape on the highway. Slow down as you approach a yield
sign. Look to the left and the right. Yield to pedestrians and vehicles. Once you have yielded to
vehicles or pedestrians, you may proceed only when you can do so safely.

3. Rectangular (4-Sided) Signs, Black on White

These signs are used to regulate traffic. This particular sign tells you the maximum speed limit for the
stretch of highway where it is posted.

No Right Turn No Left Turn No U-Turn No Turns Left Turn Only One Way

Do Not Enter No Turn On Red Do Not Pass Stay to Right of Two-way Left No Parking
Median

Left Turn Yield High Occupancy Reserved as a Bike Lane

Wrong Way on Green Vehicles Disability Parking
Space

21
 Warning Signs

These signs provide notice to road users of a situation that might not be readily apparent.

Stop Ahead Yield Ahead Signal Ahead Sharp Right Turn Pedestrian Roundabout
Crossing

Advisory Speed Exit Ramp No Passing Zone Roadway Road Divides Divided Road
Advisory Speed Merging Ahead Ends Ahead

Road Curves Sharp Turns Road Curves Side Road Enters Lane Ends Intersection
Ahead Merge Left

“T” Intersection Railroad before Steep Hill Slippery When Lane Ends Truck Crossing
Ahead “T” Intersection Wet

Trail Crossing Pedestrian Flagger Ahead Roadwork Ahead Detour

Bicycle Crossing

School Crossing School Bus Stop

Ahead Ahead

22
Other Traffic Sign Types

Overhead Lane Use

These signs are placed above the
roadway to provide direction on the
specific use of lanes or to provide
destination or directional information.

Route Marker Signs

These signs identify the route number
and the type of roadway.
Interstate U.S. Route State Route

Service Information
and Guide Signs
These signs identify the commercial
business, product or service offered Park and Ride Destination Guide General Services Sign
at particular exits.

Lodging Hospital Gas Food Airport Train Station

Mile Marker Signs

These are located every mile on
interstate roadways to serve as a
location point for drivers when they
need assistance.

23
 C. Highway Pavement Markings
Types of Line Markings

Highway markings, used alone or to supplement Double (side-by-side)

other traffic control devices, provide important Solid - White
guidance and information to drivers without requiring Separation of lanes where travel is in
them to divert their attention from the roadway. You the same direction and lane changing
should recognize all of the following pavement is prohibited. May be used to separate
general travel lanes from adjacent
markings and understand what they mean. Lines
preferential lanes, such as HOV lanes. Also
may be extra wide in some locations and/or may be used in advance of obstructions
supplemented by reflective markers attached to the that may be passed on either side.
road surface to increase the visibility of the lines and
to give them greater emphasis. Double (side-by-side)
Solid - Yellow
Single Broken - White Separation of lanes where travel is
Separation of lanes where travel is in the in opposite directions and passing is
same direction, and crossing from one prohibited in both directions. Left turn
lane to the other is permitted; i.e. lane lines maneuvers across this marking are
on multi-lane roadways. permitted. Also used in advance of
obstructions that may be passed only
on the right side.
Single Broken - Yellow
Separation of lanes where travel is in Solid plus Broken - Yellow
opposite directions, and where passing
with care is permitted; i.e. centerline on Separation of lanes where travel is
2-lane, 2-way roadways. in opposite directions and passing is
permitted with care for traffic adjacent
to the broken line, but prohibited for
Single Solid - White traffic adjacent to the solid line. Used
Marks the right edge of the roadway on two-way roadways where passing is
and the separation of lanes where travel permitted in only one direction. Also used
is in the same direction, but where lane to mark edges of two-way left turn lanes
changing is discouraged. Also used in – solid lines on the outside, broken lines
advance of obstructions that may be on the inside.
passed to either side; i.e. right edge lines
and lane lines at intersection approaches. Single Dotted– Yellow or
White
Single Solid - Yellow Extension of lines through intersections.
Marks left edge lines on divided Color the same as that of the line being
highways, one-way roads, and ramps. extended. Also used to separate turn,
entrance and exit lanes from through
lanes.
Double (side-by-side)
Broken - Yellow
or

Marks the edges of Broken–Yellow

reversible lanes.

24
Other Pavement Markings

Other highway pavement markings are critical to Word and Symbol Markings
safe driving and it is important to recognize and • Markings to designate lane use, lane
understand them as well. They include: reductions, and direction of travel;
• Markings used with arrows or other word
Stop Line
messages to advise that only the movement
White, solid lines that indicate where a vehicle is indicated may be made from the lane in
to stop for a STOP sign or red traffic signal. which the message is shown;

Yield Lines • ‘SCHOOL’ and ‘RxR’ markings to warn

drivers that they are approaching school
Rows of small triangles extending across the lane
areas and railroad crossings.
that indicate where a vehicle is to yield to other
vehicles or pedestrians.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Pavement Markings

Bicycles share most of Maryland’s roads with Where parallel parking is allowed, similar lines
motor vehicles without specific traffic signs or may separate the bicycle lanes from the parking
pavement markings. Some roads, mostly in lanes.
urban areas, do have shared-use lane markings
Pedestrian crosswalk
(see photos). These markings alert motorists that
lines are white, solid
bicyclists may be on the road, indicate to
lines that emphasize
bicyclists where to ride, and discourage
pedestrian crossing points.
bicycling in the wrong direction.
Crosswalks may have
Some roads have pavement additional lines between
markings that show lanes the white, solid lines or in
specifically designated for the place of the parallel lines.
exclusive use of bicycles.
Solid or broken white lines
separate these bike lanes
from motor vehicle travel
lanes. You may see bike
lanes marked with bike lane
signs or by a combination of
bicycle symbols and arrows.

25
 be the be the
slow down buckled up
drıver drıver

According to the National Highway Traffic Wearing a seat belt is the single most effective
Safety Administration, a crash on a road with a way to prevent death and serious injury in a car
speed limit of 65 mph or greater is more than crash. Be the BUCKLED UP Driver and wear
twice as likely to result in a fatality than a crash your seat belt – every trip, every ride, front seat
on a road with a speed limit of 45 or 50 mph, or back seat.
and nearly five times as likely as a crash on a
road with a speed limit of 40 mph or lower. About 90 percent of Maryland drivers and
passengers wear their seat belt, but our goal is
Be the SLOW DOWN Driver urges motorists to 100 percent. Each year, hundreds of unbelted
obey speed limits. If you have a need for drivers and passengers are seriously injured or
speed, stick to playing video games. killed on our roads. The vast majority of those
Bar tender
injuries or deaths could have been avoided if
Caucasian male Latin Male African American Male Caucasian female
Latin female
those people were properly buckled at the time
of their crash. It takes three seconds to buckle up
but it can make a lifetime of difference.

For more information, visit:

ZeroDeathsMD.gov.

26
 Driving Situations
SECTION 5: and Conditions

A. Driving in Reduced Visibility Low Beam vs. High Beam Headlight

Driving in reduced visibility situations is more Usage
difficult than “normal” driving and requires
Use low beams when:
additional concentration and preparation. Low
visibility driving can encompass a variety of • Operating your vehicle in normal driving
situations, but it is most commonly associated situations, such as driving at night on a
with nighttime driving and driving in fog. highway or roadway with streetlights.
When driving in reduced visibility situations, use • Driving in fog, rain, snow, etc.
the road edge lines or the right side of the road • Entering a tunnel or construction area.
as a guide. You may not see highway signs until (While not required by law in all areas, this
too late. Yellow pavement markings should never increases visibility to other motorists and
be on your right side, but always on your left construction workers.)
side. Yellow is used to divide opposing roadway
Use high beams when on open roads, which are
traffic and indicate the left travel edge of the
not lighted by streetlights, in order to see persons
roadway. White pavement markings denote
or vehicles ahead. Be aware, you must:
the right travel edge of the roadway, as well as
traffic traveling in the same direction. • Change to low beam at least 500 feet
before meeting oncoming vehicles.
Headlight Use • Change to low beam when following a
Knowing when and how to use your headlights vehicle at a distance of 300 feet or less.
is critical for safe driving. Headlights are not only
used by drivers to help them see in low visibility B. Driving at Night
Asian female
situations, they are also helpful in identifying your Night driving creates a different set of problems
vehicle to oncoming traffic. for drivers. Driving at night is more hazardous
Below are some basic rules for and more difficult than daytime driving making
headlight usage: it more difficult to judge distance and traveling
speed of other vehicles. You can see only as far
• When driving, you must turn
as your headlights allow. Risks increase at night
on your headlights anytime
due to visibility problems, which make it difficult
there is not enough light to
to clearly see the path of travel and determine
clearly see at least 1,000
the actions of other drivers.
feet ahead of your vehicle.
• Key times to use headlights are nighttime,
foggy conditions and stormy weather.
• Maryland law requires that you turn on
your headlights when you are using your
windshield wipers in inclement weather.

27
 Below are some suggestions to follow when inclement weather requires greater concentration
driving at night: and preparation on the part of the driver.
• Make sure to use your headlights and follow When driving in inclement weather, it is important
the suggestions for when to use high beams. to take proactive steps to diminish the likelihood
• When approaching oncoming traffic in the of a crash, and provide sufficient space in the
opposite lane, do not stare into the vehicle’s event your vehicle loses traction. Some simple
headlights, as this will impair your ability to precautions when driving in inclement weather
see. Instead, keep your eyes focused on the include:
road in front of you, or slightly to the right • Keeping a safe distance - the space needed
of the lane you are traveling in (i.e. the right between you and the car in front of you is
edge of your lane or the edge of the road). much greater on wet roads than it is in dry
• Increase your following distance. This will conditions. This distance should be even
help prevent a collision in the event the further when the roadway is covered with
vehicle in front of you needs to stop quickly. snow/ice; reducing speed to allow more
time to react.
C. Driving in Fog • Making sure your tires have sufficient
There are some unique circumstances while tread, in accordance with manufacturer
driving in fog that require additional actions on recommendations and vehicle guidelines.
the part of the driver. Below are some general • Avoiding slamming on the brakes, as this may
guidelines and requirements for operating a cause your vehicle to skid. If your car does
vehicle in foggy conditions: not have an anti-lock braking system, pump
• Reduce your normal driving speed. the brakes to prevent skidding.
• When you see headlights or another vehicle’s • Avoiding sharp steering or changing speed
taillights ahead, reduce speed still further. You quickly.
must be prepared to stop quickly. • Making sure your windshield wipers are in
• If the fog is so thick that you cannot safely working condition.
operate your vehicle, pull completely off • Using your headlights.
the road to a safe location and turn on your
emergency flashers.
• Use low beam headlights only, and if you
have them, special fog lights.
Remember: Ramps and
bridges freeze first before
D. Driving in Inclement Weather highways and roads. Also,
Wet road surfaces can become slippery, plowed roads may refreeze
reducing traction and increasing the chances of at night or have icy patches
a crash. These risks increase when road surfaces from the daylight thawing
are covered with snow and/or ice. Driving in of snow.

28
Driving on Snow/Ice Emergency Kit Supplies:
There is no such thing as a “completely safe” You should keep an emergency kit in your car
speed on ice and snow. In winter weather, every that contains:
roadway may be different depending upon • Flares
sun, shade, the amount of salt on the road, and
other conditions. Watch ahead for danger spots. • Flashlight and batteries
Blacktop (asphalt) roads can easily hide a thin • First aid kit
layer of ice produced by melting and re-freezing
• Blanket
(sometimes known as black ice) and can cause
a crash, if you are not aware of the danger. • Kitty litter or sand (for traction on snow/ice)
Four-wheel drive vehicles can also slide on • Small shovel and ice scraper
ice and snow. Four-wheel drive improves
maneuverability, but driving on snow or ice is E. Skidding
always dangerous and always unpredictable. Traction or adhesion is the grip between the
Drivers should exercise extreme caution tires and the road surface that allows a vehicle
at all times. to start, stop and/or change direction. Traction
Some special considerations when driving in between the tires and the road does not remain
snow/ice are: constant. For example, sand, gravel, uneven road
surfaces, oil slicks/spills, increased speed or
• Slowing down; no precaution makes it safe water on the road decreases the level of traction.
for you to drive on ice or snow-covered The possibility of skidding or sliding increases
roadways at normal speeds. with decreased traction.
• Keeping windows and lights clear. Remove In the event that your vehicle does begin to skid, it
all ice and snow from your vehicle before is important to know what to do in order to regain
driving. control of your vehicle as quickly as possible.
• Starting out very slowly, then testing your Basic rules include:
brakes gently to find out how well you can
stop. Start slowing down long before you • Release the accelerator or brake pedal,
come to an intersection or turn. whichever is being applied, to regain vehicle
balance.
• Keeping your gas tank and windshield fluid
reservoir full. • Steer in the direction of the skid.
• Using chains, snow tires or radial tires on • Look where you want the vehicle to go.
designated snow emergency routes when a • Apply brake pressure only after rolling
snow emergency is declared. traction has been reestablished.
• Slowly accelerating may aid in recovery
from loss of rear wheel traction.

29
F. Hydroplaning • After a train passes, look both ways before
As vehicle speed increases and the amount proceeding. Always be certain tracks are
of water on the roadway increases, vehicles clear before proceeding. Another train may
tend to ride on a cushion of water and the be approaching on an adjacent track.
tires lose contact with the road. This is called • Never start to cross the tracks unless you can
“hydroplaning.” Hydroplaning can cause partial clear the tracks completely. Make sure there
or complete loss of control of the vehicle. To is room for your vehicle on the other side of
prevent hydroplaning, maintain your tires in good the tracks before proceeding.
condition, and lower your speed in response to
wet roads. If you detect a loss of control, take H. Work Zone Safety
your foot off the gas, do not apply the brakes, You are likely to encounter roadway work zones
maintain the direction of the vehicle, and allow resulting from construction, maintenance, or utility
the vehicle to slow to a manageable speed. work along major and secondary roadways.
Work zones can mean unexpected conditions,
G. Highway-Railroad Crossings such as:
Remember, trains cannot stop quickly. Extra
• New traffic patterns
caution should be used when traveling over
railroad crossings. • Temporary traffic control devices
When approaching railroad tracks, • Narrow lanes
be alert: • Lane shifts
• For other vehicles that may be • Lane and shoulder closures
stopping before the RR crossing
– school buses, commercial buses and trucks • Pavement drop-offs/uneven surfaces
carrying hazardous materials must stop • Reduced sight distance
before every highway-rail crossing.
• Detours
• For a train at any time – trains can come from
• Slow moving equipment
either direction and an approaching train
may be closer and traveling faster than it
appears.
• If gates are down or warning lights are
flashing, the road is closed. Stop and wait
until the gates go up and the warning lights
stop flashing.

30
Orange is the standard color for I. Roundabouts
work zone activity. If you see Approach roads to roundabouts are controlled
orange signs when driving, stay by yield signs. Entering traffic must always yield
alert and be prepared for to traffic already in the roundabout. Be cautious
unexpected driving conditions when approaching the roundabout the same
ahead. as any other intersection. As you approach the
When traveling through a work roundabout:
zone, stay alert for temporary • Reduce your speed.
traffic control devices. These
devices define the safe path • Keep to the right of the island.
through a work zone. • Watch for and yield
Work zones are set up with your safety in mind. to pedestrians in the
Follow these safety rules while traveling in work crosswalk.
zones: • Cautiously approach
• Stay alert – make safety your first priority. the yield line and wait
for an acceptable gap
• Watch your speed – obey posted speed in traffic. Be cautious
limits and be aware that speed cameras may of vehicles exiting the
be in use and speeding fines may be much roundabout. If there is
higher in work zones. no traffic, you do not need to wait to enter
• Expect the unexpected – work zone the roundabout.
conditions change constantly – be ready to After entering the multilane roundabout, keep
react. to your chosen travel lane. When preparing to
• Minimize distractions – avoid using cell exit, turn on your right turn signal and move to the
phones, changing radio stations and other outermost travel lane as you pass the exit prior to
distractions. where you want to exit.
• Pay close attention – obey work zone signs
and watch for workers, pedestrians and
bicyclists.
• Drive courteously – merge with caution,
don’t tailgate and don’t change lanes
unnecessarily.
• Respect the flagger – obey the flagger’s
directions.

31
J. Interstate Driving K. Funeral Processions
Vehicles driven in a funeral procession must have
Entering the Interstate
headlights turned on and hazard lights flashing in
Interstate and other limited access order to be granted the right-of-way.
highways are usually reached
by an entrance ramp and an A vehicle driven in a funeral procession facing a
acceleration lane. The entrance red signal may continue through or make a turn
ramp provides access to the at an intersection.
highway and the acceleration Other vehicles, even if they have a green signal,
lane provides the opportunity must yield the right-of-way to the vehicles
to get up to the speed of the in the funeral procession until all vehicles in
traffic already on the interstate the procession have passed, unless they can
or highway. When entering an interstate, the solid safely proceed without crossing the path of the
painted lines that divide the entrance and the procession.
interstate should not be crossed.
L. Slow Moving Vehicles
Exiting the Interstate You may encounter slow moving vehicles on
Move to the appropriate lane the roadways, including bicycles, horse-drawn
well before reaching the exit. vehicles, and farm vehicles. Some of these
Start slowing down as soon as vehicles may have the slow-
you enter the deceleration lane moving emblem (shown) on the
and continue slowing to the back of the vehicle to help warn
posted advisory speed for the you they are only going 25 mph
ramp. If you exit at the wrong or less.
place on an interstate, continue
Here are some tips for driving alongside slow
until you are off the exit ramp
moving vehicles:
and look for a way to re-enter the interstate.
Never stop and back up on any portion of the • Be constantly aware of any vehicles that
interstate. might be traveling at a much slower speed.
• Adjust the speed and position of your vehicle
Stopping accordingly.
Stopping on the traveled portion of a highway is
• Only pass the slow moving vehicle when it is
prohibited. Stopping on the shoulder is permitted
safe to do so.
only when your vehicle is disabled or in other
emergencies. If you must stop on the shoulder of If you must follow the slower moving vehicle
the interstate or highway, turn on your emergency waiting for a safe time to pass, use your
flashers to warn other drivers and stay inside emergency flashers to help warn others coming
your vehicle if you can. The extremely high speed up behind you.
of traffic makes standing or walking along an
interstate highway very dangerous.

32
 Dangerous Driving
SECTION 6: Behaviors

A. Alcohol, Drugs and Driving §21-902 of the Maryland Vehicle Law, (driving
Drunk driving is a very serious threat to highway under the influence or impaired by alcohol) can
safety. Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) result in mandatory participation in the Ignition
is a measurement of the amount of alcohol Interlock Program. Please visit the MDOT MVA’s
in a person’s blood. Drivers are considered website for additional information regarding the
to be driving under the influence of alcohol, Ignition Interlock Program.
in Maryland, when their blood alcohol
concentration is .08 or higher. Any amount of Controlled Dangerous Substances
alcohol can affect one’s judgment and physical (CDS) – Illegal and Prescription Drugs
coordination and can lead to criminal charges. Illegal drugs, (marijuana, heroin, etc.),
prescription medications (i.e. codeine), and
Even though Maryland’s limit for drunk driving is
chemical inhalants can severely impact a
.08, a driver’s ability to safely operate a vehicle
person’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.
may be impaired at a much lower BAC and
Drugs have serious harmful effects on the skills
may result in criminal charges. For example,
required to drive safely: alertness, concentration,
an individual’s vision, ability to perform simple
coordination, and reaction time. All drugs can
motor functions and reaction time may be
make it difficult to judge distances and react to
affected with just one drink and can increase
signals and sounds on the road.
the risk of a collision.
Using prescription drugs can also impair your
The number of drinks consumed is a poor
ability to drive. It is important to pay close
measure of BAC because of the many factors
attention to both prescription and over the
affecting your body’s ability to digest alcohol,
counter drug label warnings, which instruct
such as weight, body fat, and how long ago and
individuals to avoid using certain drugs when
how much you ate. Factors like tiredness, your
operating a motor vehicle or heavy machinery.
mood and taking certain medications can also
Disregarding this recommendation can lead to
make a difference in how alcohol affects your
criminal penalties should your ability to safely
driving ability. It is very difficult to assess your
operate a vehicle be impaired.
own BAC or impairment.
Open Alcohol Container
Under 21 – Alcohol Restriction
It is against the law to operate a motor vehicle
If you are not yet 21 years of age, it is not legal
with an open alcohol container in the passenger
for you to be drinking at all. If you are pulled
area of the vehicle. An open container is any
over and you have been drinking, your license
open can, bottle, container or package. For
will be suspended or revoked. In addition, you
could be charged with violating the alcohol
restriction on your license.
If you plan to drink,
A suspension or revocation for a violation of an plan not to drive.
Under 21 Alcohol Restriction or any violation of

33
 example, a six-pack of alcohol with an open • Obey all traffic laws, signs, signals and
or missing bottle/can or any empty bottles/ pavement markings.
cans that previously contained alcohol can be • Yield the right of way.
considered an open container. The passenger
area is any place designed to seat the driver • Avoid competing with other drivers.
or a passenger or any place that is readily
accessible to the driver or passenger from their C. Distracted Driving
seating position. Concentration is essential for safe driving. You
should be constantly aware of the road and the
Transporting Children other vehicles around you. Keep alert and you
If you are convicted of a drunk or drugged may be able to foresee a crash and avoid it.
driving offense with a child or children in your Constantly check the position of vehicles behind
vehicle, your fine and jail time can be doubled you, as well as those beside and ahead of you.
by the judge in court. The term “distracted driving” refers to anything that
takes your eyes, hands or especially your mind,
B. Aggressive Driving and Road Rage away from driving. Distracted driving is the most
Aggressive drivers demonstrate behaviors like common contributing factor in police-reported
speeding, tailgating, failing to obey traffic traffic crashes. Distractions of any sort cause
signals and devices, erratic or improper lane drivers to miss key visual and audio cues needed
changes, failing to yield the right-of-way and to avoid a crash.
improper passing. Some factors that may Many activities contribute to distracted driving.
produce aggressive driving are crowded roads, Some examples include:
unexpected delays, rushing, road construction,
and stress. • Eating and/or drinking;
Drivers must respect and cooperate with all other • Adjusting the radio and/or a portable music
road users and conform to specific rules in order system;
to maintain order and avoid crashes. Some tips • Adjusting or programming a GPS;
to reduce the possibility of becoming involved in
• Attending to children and pets;
an aggressive driving incident are:
• Loose objects moving in the vehicle;
• Allow extra time to travel.
• Talking and/or texting on a cell phone;
• Be patient.
• Smoking;
• Be courteous.
• Concentrate on your driving behavior.
• Always signal your intentions.
A good general rule is to
treat other drivers and road
users like you would like to
be treated.

34
 • Putting on makeup; It is important to be aware of the signs of drowsy
• Shaving; driving and to take the necessary action to
ensure that you do not put yourself and others in
• Reading; a situation that could result in a crash. Below is a
• Interaction with others in the vehicle. list of common “danger signs” and a general rule
to combat drowsy driving.
Cell Phones
Maryland Vehicle Law prohibits the use of Danger Signs for Drowsy Drivers
hand-held cell phones, including texting, while The following may be indications of drowsiness:
operating a motor vehicle. Although hands-free • Your eyes close or go out of focus.
devices are permitted, drivers should minimize
calls and focus on the following safe driving • You have trouble keeping your head up.
practices: • You can’t stop yawning.
• Use your cell phone only in emergencies; if • You have wandering, disconnected thoughts.
possible, have a passenger make the call. • You don’t remember driving the last few
• If you must make a call, pull safely off the miles.
road and stop before making the call. • You missed your exit.
• Let your voicemail answer incoming calls. • You keep driving out of your lane.
• Keep your telephone conversations short. • Your speed becomes variable.
An individual who is under the age of 18 years
may not use a wireless communications device
(including a hands-free phone/device) while
operating a motor vehicle, with the exception of
a 911 emergency call.

D. Drowsy Driving
Not getting enough sleep is another cause
of poor driving behavior. Sleepiness slows
reaction time, decreases awareness and impairs
judgment, just like drugs or alcohol. A lack of
sleep can significantly increase your chances of
being involved in a crash.
If you become tired or sleepy
Some drivers are at a higher risk for feeling while driving, it is best to
drowsy while operating a vehicle. Examples rest or change drivers. Being
include individuals who drive many miles each tired dulls your mind and
day, those with sleep disorders, and those taking slows down your reactions,
certain medications. making driving hazardous.

35
 be the be the
focused make a plan
drıver drıver

One-third of fatal crashes can be attributed to Each year, tens of thousands of people are
distracted driving. Cell phone use is one of the arrested on Maryland’s roads for drunk or
leading causes of distracted driving. However, drugged driving. Alcohol and drugs have effects
other deadly distractions that take your attention that result in a person’s inability to drive as well
from driving include eating, applying makeup, as they normally could, or in many cases, not
tending to children and changing radio stations. able to drive at all.

Be the FOCUSED Driver who avoids distractions Before you go out, be the MAKE A PLAN Driver
and sticks to the task at hand – driving. and make amake a plan to get home safely,
and designate a sober driver. Being arrested for
impaired driving carries serious consequences
n Male Caucasian female
including hefty fines, possible jail time, and
Caucasian male Latin Male Latin female
thousands of dollars in court costs. Worst of all,
impaired driving often results in serious injury or
death, both of which can be avoided through
good decision-making.

For more information, visit:

ZeroDeathsMD.gov

36
SECTION 7: Sharing the Road

A. Pedestrian Right-of-Way Where a traffic signal is

Pedestrians have the right-of-way at street in operation, drivers and
crossings but must obey traffic control signals. pedestrians must obey the traffic
Where a traffic signal is not present, vehicles signal. A driver may not pass
must stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk, whether any vehicle that is stopped at a
marked or unmarked when a pedestrian is: crosswalk. Drivers must yield to
pedestrians when turning on a steady green signal
• On the half of the roadway on which the and when making a turn, after stopping, where
vehicle is traveling. turning on a red signal is permitted.
• Approaching from the nearest lane on the
other half of the roadway. B. Emergency Vehicles
Authorized emergency vehicles, such as police
Right-of-Way at Crossings for cars, ambulances and fire engines, have the
Pedestrians who are Blind, Deaf right-of-way when they are using their audible or
or have a Mobility Aid visual signals, i.e. sirens and flashing lights.
Drivers should be especially alert for pedestrians
Immediately after you see or hear an
who are deaf, blind or mobility impaired.
emergency vehicle approaching that is using
These individuals may have difficulty detecting
its signals, you must move as close as possible
oncoming traffic and may need extra time to
to the edge of the roadway, clear of any
cross the road. The driver of a vehicle shall yield
intersection, and remain stopped until the
the right-of-way to:
emergency vehicle has passed.
• A blind pedestrian carrying a clearly visible
If you are proceeding in the same direction
white cane or accompanied by a guide dog
Asian female as an emergency vehicle using its signals, you
or service animal.
may not pass the emergency vehicle unless the
• A deaf or hard of hearing person accompanied emergency vehicle stops or you are otherwise
by a guide dog or service animal. directed by a police officer.
• A mobility-impaired individual using a manual If you are approaching and emergency vehicle,
or motorized wheelchair, motorized scooter, tow truck, or other service vehicle that is stopped
crutch, cane or walker. on a roadway, you must pull into an available
lane not immediately adjacent to the referenced
Crossing at Crosswalks vehicle. If it is not possible to move over, you must
A crosswalk is the portion of the roadway slow down to a safe speed for the conditions
meant to be used for pedestrian crossings. and be prepared to stop if necessary.
Crosswalks can be marked on the pavement
surface, however, a crosswalk exists across most
intersection approaches even if no crosswalk
marking is present.

37
C. Large Trucks No-Zones
Watch for turning trucks. Trucks make wide turns There are four large blind spots around trucks
at intersections and require additional space. where cars “disappear” from view and the driver
When making a right turn, large trucks will often cannot see you.
move left prior to making the turn. Car drivers • Side No-Zones: Trucks and buses have
may see this as a lane change to the left and blind spots on both sides. If you cannot see
attempt to pass on the right. Passing any truck on the driver’s face in the side-view mirror, he
the right can be risky. Wait to assess the truck or she cannot see you. If the truck changes
driver’s intent before passing. If a truck is stopped lanes, you could be in trouble. The right side
at or approaching an intersection, never attempt blind spot runs the length of the trailer and
to cut in along the right side, as the truck driver extends out three lanes.
begins their turn. You could find yourself caught
between the turning truck and the curb. • Rear No-Zones:
Avoid tailgating.
NO-ZONES
When passing a truck Unlike cars, trucks and
10' to 20'

that is going in the buses have huge no

same direction, pass zones directly behind
quickly to resume them. The truck or bus

50'

24
'
visibility and change driver cannot see your
lanes only when you car back there. If the
can see both of the truck or bus brakes
truck’s headlights in suddenly, you have no
your rearview mirror. place to go.
Many intersections • Front No-Zones: 200'
are marked with stop Do not cut in front too
lines. Crowding the soon after passing a
intersection by stopping beyond the stop line can truck or bus. Truck and
leave your vehicle exposed to trucks attempting to bus drivers need nearly
turn from a cross street. twice the time and
Never cut in front of a truck. Fully loaded trucks room to stop as cars.
can weigh more than 80,000 pounds and take Look for the entire front of the truck in your rear
the length of a football field to stop. Most cars view mirror before you pull in front, and then
weigh only 2,000 pounds. do not slow down.
• Backing Up
No-Zones: Never cross behind a truck that
is backing up. Hundreds of motorists are killed
Remember, if you cannot see or injured each year by ignoring trucks that
a truck’s mirrors, the truck are backing up. Truck drivers do not have a
driver cannot see you! rear view mirror and may not see you cutting
in behind them.

38
D. School Vehicles • Look twice before changing lanes or
merging into traffic. Use your mirrors
Drivers are to stop for school vehicles. and look over your shoulder to be sure it
If a school vehicle has stopped on a roadway is safe before merging or changing lanes.
and is operating the alternately flashing red Motorcycles can be hidden in a vehicle’s
lights, the driver of any vehicle following or blind spot or missed in a quick look due to
approaching the school vehicle shall: their smaller size.
• Stop at least 20 feet from the rear of the • Do not share a lane with a motorcycle.
school vehicle, if approaching the school Motorcyclists often adjust their position in
vehicle from its rear. the traffic lane to avoid road hazards like
• At least 20 feet from the front of the school potholes or oil spills, because of wind, and to
vehicle, if approaching the school vehicle be seen by other road users. Motorcyclists are
from its front. entitled to use the entire lane.

The driver of any vehicle following or • Do not “tailgate” or drive too close to
approaching the school vehicle may not a motorcycle. Allow at least 3 to 4-second
proceed until the school vehicle resumes following distance between your vehicle and
motion or the alternately flashing red lights are the motorcycle in front of you. Motorcycles
deactivated. This does not apply to the driver of may need to slow for road hazards like
a vehicle on a physically divided highway. gravel, wet road or railroad crossings that
don’t affect cars the same way. Motorcyclists
often reduce speed by downshifting or
E. Motorcycles
merely rolling off the throttle, which do not
Motorcycles are vehicles with the same rights and activate the brake light. So, be alert and
privileges as any vehicle on the roadway. But in leave plenty of space around motorcycles.
crashes, a motorcyclist is six times more likely to be
hurt than a car driver.Motorcycles are smaller than • Allow plenty of space between your
cars and trucks, and it can be harder to judge the vehicle and the motorcycle when
speed and distance of an oncoming motorcycle. passing. Wind gusts and drafts from a
passing vehicle can affect a motorcycle.
• Yield right-of-way to an oncoming After passing a rider, make sure you can see
motorcycle when turning left. Violating the motorcycle’s headlight in your rearview
a motorcyclist’s right of way can result in a mirror before moving back into the lane.
citation with significant penalties if you cause If you are being passed by a motorcycle,
a serious injury. Drivers are at fault in just over simply maintain your speed and allow the
half of car crashes with motorcycles. motorcyclist to complete their passing.
• Use care when driving near a group
of motorcyclists. Motorcyclists participate
in organized rides which can involve many
motorcycles. Driving around these groups
requires communication and patience. If you

39
 need to change lanes or reach an exit, signal bicyclist may use the full lane even while traveling
your intention early and wait for the riders substantially below the speed of traffic if the lane
in the group to create gap for you. Do not is too narrow for a car to safely pass a bicycle
merge in between groups or riders unless within the lane). Before opening a car door,
there is sufficient space to do so. If it is a small check for bicyclists who may be approaching
group, it may be easier to slow and let the from behind.
group pass before making our lane change.
Following a Bicyclist
Please obtain a Motorcycle Operator
Manual (DL-001) or review this manual on the As you approach a bicyclist, slow down. Avoid
MDOT MVA’s website, if you wish to obtain a honking your horn. Bicyclists can usually hear
motorcycle license. an approaching vehicle and loud noises can
startle bicyclists, causing a crash. Bicycles do not
F. Bicycles have turn signals so bicyclists use hand and arm
signals to alert you of their intentions.
Right-of-Way Do not follow a bicycle too closely. Remember
By Maryland law, bicycles are vehicles. that small holes, glass, and other hazards can be
Bicyclists are authorized users of the roadway, particularly dangerous to bicyclists. Bicycles can
and have rights-of-way and the same duty to stop and maneuver quickly so a bicyclist may
obey all traffic signals as motorists. But bicyclists swerve or change speed to avoid a road hazard
are less visible, quieter, and don’t have a that a motorist cannot see.
protective barrier around them. Motorists must
drive carefully near bicyclists: even a slight Pass with Care - Give Bikes at Least
mistake can result in serious injury or even death. 3 Feet
Pass a bicyclist as you would any slowly moving
Expect Bicyclists on the Road vehicle. Be prepared to slow down, wait until
Expect to find a bicyclist on all types of roads oncoming traffic is clear and then allow at least
(except interstate highways and toll facilities), at 3 feet of clearance between your car and
all intersections and roundabouts, in all types of the bicyclist when passing. The same 3-foot
weather, and at all times of the day and night. clearance applies if you are passing a bicyclist
Bicyclists may ride out in the travel lane for their in a bike lane, on the shoulder, or in the same
own safety due to narrow roads, or to avoid lane as your car. After passing a bicyclist, check
obstacles or pavement hazards. On roads your mirror to ensure that you have completely
without shoulders, or with cars parked along the passed the bicycle with enough room before you
right side, often the safest place for a bicyclist to move back to the right.
ride is in the center of the lane. In Maryland, a

40
Use Caution at Intersections, Bridges Watch for Children
and Driveways Children on bicycles are sometimes
Always assume that bicyclists are traveling unpredictable. Expect the unexpected and
straight through an intersection unless they remember they are small in stature and may
signal otherwise, and yield to bicycles just as be hard to see. Young bicyclists are especially
you would to any other vehicle. Bicyclists often likely to make surprising changes in direction. Be
ride on sidewalks and trails, so look both ways aware of bicyclists entering the roadway from
before crossing a sidewalk or trail. A bicycle driveways or near parked cars. Strictly observe
may come from an unexpected direction. speed limits in school zones and in residential
Never make a right turn from a through lane areas to allow time to see, and safely share the
immediately after passing a bike on a shoulder road with, young bicyclists.
or bike lane. Try to avoid any chance that a
bicycle will be to your right or in your right blind G. Mopeds and Scooters
spot when you turn right. Before starting a right All traffic laws apply to drivers of mopeds and
turn, move as far to the right as practicable within motor scooters. Drivers of cars must always
the bike lane, shoulder, or right turn lane. be alert for mopeds and scooters, as their size
makes them very difficult to see.
Yield to bicycles as to any other vehicle
proceeding straight. Do not turn left immediately Mopeds and scooters may be ridden on any
in front of a bicycle. Experienced bicyclists often roadways where the posted maximum speed
ride very fast (as fast as 35 mph!) and may be limit is 50 miles per hour or less. They may
closer than you think. If you are passing a left- be riding side-by-side or alone, and on the
turning vehicle by moving right, first look closely roadway or on the shoulder. Generally, they
for bicycles. Wherever a travel way narrows for are to be ridden as near to the right side of the
a bridge, parked cars, or other obstructions on roadway as practical and safe.
the right, be prepared for a bicyclist riding on the Be especially cautious of mopeds and scooters
shoulder to merge left into the main traffic lane. at intersections when they may be turning or
going straight through the intersection, and on
Driving at Night narrow roadways with little room for passing.
If you see a dim reflective object at night do not
assume that it is outside of the roadway. It could H. Understanding Vehicle Technologies
be a bicycle in the main travel lane. Bicyclists Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
sometimes avoid shoulders at night when cars vehicle technologies are already helping to save
are not present because tree branches, potholes, lives and prevent injuries. Many vehicles on the
debris, and even the edge of the pavement are road today use sensors and cameras to detect
difficult to see. Your headlights may provide surroundings to identify potential dangers and
enough light for the bicyclist to safely move into may help you to avoid a crash. If used properly,
the shoulder for you to pass, but it takes longer ADAS technology can prevent injuries, save
at night. When approaching a bicycle, use your
low beam headlights.

41
 lives, and prevent 40% of crashes. While this Be familiar with the technologies installed on
technology may one day lead to fully self-driving whatever vehicle you are about to drive and
vehicles, you, as the driver, are still responsible use the technologies safely and effectively.
for safely operating your vehicle at all times. Learn how by reviewing your vehicle manual or
ADAS technology includes Automatic Emergency asking your car dealership. Above all, always
Braking, Lane Keeping Assistance, and Blind stay focused when driving and remain engaged
Spot Warning. The technology is designed to in the driving task.
assist you in the driving task (e.g., staying in lane,
parking, avoiding collisions, reducing blind spots,
and maintaining a safe distance). You should
not rely on ADAS to fully operate your vehicle;
you are responsible for the safe operation of
your vehicle at all times. It is your responsibility
to be aware of everything around you by doing
head checks and using mirrors and cameras to
observe traffic and other roadway users.
Be aware the technology has limitations and
may not work properly in rain, snow, fog,
on hills, and around curves. Be aware the
technology responds differently from one type
of vehicle to another – even the dashboard
icons may differ. There are also many different
names of the technology , and the names do
not always describe the actual function it can
perform. Always keep your vehicle sensors
clean and damage free, and always keep the
software technology up to date to follow the
manufacturer’s recommendations.

Be familiar with the

technologies installed on
whatever vehicle you are
about to drive and use the
technologies safely and
effectively.

42
SECTION 8: Crashes and Traffic Stops

A. Crashes If there are no injuries and your vehicle

If you are involved in a crash where someone can move:
has been injured, including a pedestrian or • Stop the vehicle as close as possible to the
bicyclist, you must remain at the scene and: scene of the crash, without obstructing traffic
more than necessary. If no one has been
• Call 911 immediately to get help with police,
injured, move it off the roadway to ensure
fire and ambulance.
your safety and that of other motorists, and to
• Identify the number of people involved, the prevent traffic backups.
type of injury and the location of the crash.
• Exchange important information (name,
• Do not move the vehicles. address, phone number, license plate
number and state, driver’s license number,
If you are convicted of leaving the vehicle make and model, and insurance
scene of a crash that results in a information.
serious injury, you will face severe
sanctions: • Ask witnesses to leave their names, addresses
and phone numbers.
• Your license will be revoked;
• Note collision location, date and time,
• You face imprisonment of up to 5 years and number of vehicles involved, weather
a fine of up to $5,000. conditions and road conditions.
• Where there is a death, fleeing is a felony • Note any damages to the vehicles.
and you face imprisonment of up to 10 years
and a fine of up to $10,000. • Record the facts of how the crash happened.

If there are no injuries, but your vehicle Remember, you must always call the
cannot move: police when:
• Call 911 immediately, give the location of the • Someone has been injured.
crash, advise there are no injuries but you • A vehicle cannot be moved.
need police assistance.
• A driver appears to be under the influence.
• Use your emergency
• A driver does not have a license.
flashers or flares
to warn oncoming • A driver tries to leave the scene without
traffic. providing the proper information.
• Be patient and do not attempt to cross the • Public property has been damaged.
roadway or stop traffic. Make sure you stay
away from traffic.

43
 If you strike an unattended vehicle or Although there are multiple suggested actions
other unattended property, you are that can increase your safety during an incident,
required to: there is not one single set of procedures that can
• Stop the vehicle as close as possible to the guarantee the safety of drivers and passengers.
scene of the crash, without obstructing traffic
more than necessary. Find a Safe Place
If your vehicle does become disabled, do your
• Attempt to find the driver or owner of
best to move it from the travel portion of the road
the property to notify and provide your
to the shoulder. If there is an opportunity to reach
information.
an off-ramp or parking lot, consider that option
• If the driver or owner of the property cannot even if it means driving on a flat tire or damaging
be found, leave notice and your information a rim. The further from the travel portion of the
in a conspicuous, secure place. highway you can be, the safer you will be.
If you strike and injure a domestic animal, you Never stop or park in the triangular shaped
are required to immediately notify the police. painted zones where a ramp exits the roadway.

B. Roadside Emergencies If you are able to remain in your vehicle:

While every roadside emergency is different, If you can remain in your vehicle, stay buckled
whether it is a flat tire or tending to a passenger, and face forward. Vehicles are equipped with
the most important reminder for motorists is to use multiple safety features that will help protect you
caution and common sense – because every and your passengers if another vehicle hits your
incident is unique. vehicle.

To be ready for the unexpected, motorists and If you are unable to remain in your
passengers are encouraged to: vehicle:
• Prepare their vehicle in advance to avoid If it is not safe or possible to remain within
and minimize emergencies; your vehicle, motorists and passengers are
• Assess the situation when a roadside encouraged to evaluate the situation around
emergency occurs; them to determine an opportune time to exit
the vehicle. When exiting the vehicle, move
• Use good judgment in deciding how to quickly away from the roadway and behind an
respond; and embankment, traffic barrier or guard-rail and, if
• Stay vigilant for other motorists, because possible, to higher ground. Face oncoming traffic
roadside emergencies are fluid situations and remain alert in the event a vehicle veers into
and can change in an instant. your path. Do not stand near the vehicle.

44
C. Traffic Stops D. Move Over Law
Law enforcement officers issue written traffic Motorists in Maryland must move over when
citations to persons who are charged with approaching any vehicles while they are
violating the Maryland Motor Vehicle Law. You stopped, standing, or parked on a highway with
must follow the directions of the officer at the time their lights flashing. If it is not safe or feasible to
of the stop or you may be subject to arrest. move over, motorists must slow to a reasonable
and prudent speed that is safe for existing
If you are stopped by a police officer: weather, road, and vehicular or pedestrian traffic
• Pull off to the side of the roadway as far conditions.
away from traffic as possible. Turn on your Violating the law is a misdemeanor carrying a
flashers. $110 fine and one point on your license. If the
• Turn off your engine and radio, and roll violation causes a crash, the fine is $150 and
down your window so you can communicate three points. If there is a death or serious injury,
with the officer. the fine is $750 and three points.
• Stay in your vehicle and keep your seat belt
fastened.
• Keep your hands in plain view – preferably
on the steering wheel. Do not make any
movement that will make the officer think you
are hiding or reaching for something.
• If the officer issues you a citation, do not
argue with the officer about the citation. You
will have your chance to make your case if
you go to court.

45
 be the be the
share look twıce
the road drıver
drıver

Pedestrian and Bicyclist safety is an issue that When there is a crash involving a car or truck
affects everyone in Maryland - everyone is a and a motorcycle, the motorcyclist almost
pedestrian at one point or another. Many always loses. Because motorcycle riders are
unnecessary injuries and fatalities occur not protected by the vehicle like the occupants
because of intoxication, ignorance, or of a car or truck, motorcyclists are injured in
inattentiveness by motorists and pedestrians. nearly 75 percent of crashes. Drivers and riders
Roadways should be safe places for everyone have the responsibility to share the road safely.
and it’s important that we all do our part.
When there is a crash involving a car and a
That also extends to bicyclists. Most people motorcycle, the car driver is at fault more than
don’t know that bicycles are actually half of the time. Be the LOOK TWICE Driver,
considered vehicles on Maryland’s roadways, always check two or more times before
Latin Male elamef nitaL Latin female elaM nitaL Asian female elam naisacuaC
just like cars or trucks. As such, drivers and merging, changing lanes, and pulling into traffic.
cyclists alike must learn to share the road with
one another and do whatever it takes to keep
each other safe.

Be the SHARE THE ROAD Driver - slow down,

pay attention, and always be alert for
pedestrians and bicyclists.

For more information, visit:

ZeroDeathsMD.gov

46
 Other Restrictions,
SECTION 9: Violations and Penalties

A. Restrictions Nighttime Restriction

The MDOT MVA is authorized to impose certain Provisional license holders are allowed to drive
restrictions on a driver’s license to ensure the unsupervised from 12:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.,
safe driving of a motor vehicle by the licensee. ONLY if the licensee is:
Operating a motor vehicle in violation of • Driving to, from or during the licensee’s
restriction(s) is a serious offense and could result employment.
in the withdrawal of the driving privilege.
• Driving to or from an organized volunteer
Additional restrictions can also be imposed program.
based on your licensing status. Graduated license
holders under 18 years of age are subject to the • Driving to or from an official school activity.
following additional driving restrictions: • Driving to or from an opportunity to
participate in an athletic event or related
Seat Belt Restriction training session.
Provisional license holders are prohibited from
operating a motor vehicle if the driver and each Wireless Device Restriction
passenger are not restrained by a seat belt or All provisional license and learner’s permit
child safety seat regardless of age or seating holders are prohibited from using a wireless
position. communication device (including a hands-free
phone) while operating a motor vehicle, with the
Passenger Restriction exception of a 911 emergency call.
Provisional license holders, during the first 5
months (151 days) of the provisional period, B. Notice to Applicant – Implied
are not allowed to have passengers under the Consent
age of 18, unless accompanied by a qualified In Maryland, any person who drives or
supervising driver or the passengers are direct attempts to drive a motor vehicle on a highway
family members. Direct family members can be or on any private property used by the public
a spouse, daughter, son, stepdaughter, stepson, in general, consents to take a test to determine
sister, brother, stepsister, or stepbrother of the alcohol concentration or a test to determine
provisional license holder or a relative of the the concentration of a drug or controlled
license holder who lives at the same address. dangerous substance.
A police officer, who has reasonable grounds
to believe that an individual is driving while
impaired by drugs, alcohol, or a controlled
substance, may have a drug recognition expert
request that person to submit to a blood test.

47
 A person may not be compelled to take a drug cause why the administrative action should not
or alcohol test. However, if upon receipt of a occur. Maryland Motor Vehicle Law requires
certified statement from a police officer that a test the surrender of any license, which is suspended,
was refused, the MDOT MVA will impose the revoked, refused or cancelled. Credit for the
suspension period for a test refusal. term of the suspension, revocation, or period
The MDOT MVA will suspend the license of any of restriction will begin only after the license is
driver who submits to the test and is determined received by the MDOT MVA.
to have a test result of 0.08 percent alcohol
Suspension of Driver’s License
concentration or higher.
The suspension of a Maryland driver’s license
C. Obtaining a False or Forged is the temporary withdrawal of the privilege
Identification Card, Driver’s License to operate a motor vehicle. In some cases,
the MDOT MVA may determine to grant the
or Learner’s Instructional Permit
individual a restricted driver’s license. The
The law states that if you attempt to secure a restricted license allows the individual to operate
false or fraudulent identification card, learner’s a motor vehicle only for a specific purpose, i.e.,
instructional permit or driver’s license, you may employment and educational purposes.
be subject to a fine and/or imprisonment under
Federal and State Law. Revocation of Driver’s License
It is a violation of the law to misrepresent your The revocation of a Maryland driver’s license
age to purchase, possess or acquire alcoholic is the withdrawal of the privilege to operate a
beverages. In addition to the above penalties, motor vehicle until the MDOT MVA determines
your driver’s license may be suspended. the individual can safely operate a motor vehicle
again. Unlike the suspension period that ends
D. Administrative Actions at a specified time, a revocation has a minimum
The MDOT MVA may suspend, revoke, refuse or waiting period to apply and is subject to denial
cancel a license for violations of motor vehicle by the MDOT MVA.
laws. The MDOT MVA will send a notice to
the individual’s address of record to advise of Cancellation of Driver’s License
a proposed administrative action, the reason A cancelled driver’s license means that the
the action is being taken, and what steps the driving privilege is terminated. The MDOT
individual may take to either have the action MVA may cancel a driver’s license if it is
modified or not imposed. In most cases, an determined that the licensee was not entitled to
administrative hearing may be requested to show be issued the license, failed to give required or

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 correct information on the license application, • A THIRD offense will result in a 180-day
or committed fraud in making application or suspension of the driver’s license/privilege,
obtaining the license. A parent can also request require attendance at a driver improvement
the cancellation of the driver’s license of a minor program designed for young drivers, and
child (see Section II, F). imposition of an employment and education
only restriction for a period of 180 days.
E. Sanctions • A FOURTH or SUBSEQUENT offense will
Provisional licensees must hold a valid provisional result in the revocation of the driver’s license/
license for an assigned conviction free period privilege and will require all licensing tests to
before becoming eligible for full license status. be successfully passed when reinstated.
Convictions or “Probation before Judgment” (PBJ)
for moving violations while holding a provisional Sanctions for Adults
license will require the completion of a driver If the provisional license holder is 18 years of age
improvement program and/or a suspension or or older and receives a moving violation with a
revocation of the driver’s license followed by the provisional license, then becomes convicted of
imposition of an employment and education only or granted a probation before judgment for the
restriction on the driver’s license. violation, the following sanctions apply:
Sanctions for Minors • The FIRST offense requires the licensee to
complete a driver improvement program.
If the licensee is under 18 years of age and
receives a moving violation with a provisional • A SECOND offense will result in a 30-day
license, then becomes convicted of or granted suspension of the driver’s license/privilege.
probation before judgment for the violation, the • A THIRD or SUBSEQUENT offense will result
following sanctions apply: in up to a 180-day suspension or revocation
• The FIRST offense requires the licensee to of the driver’s license/privilege.
complete a driver improvement program. The above sanctions will be imposed IN
• A SECOND offense will result in a 30-day ADDITION to any of the sanctions that apply as
suspension of the driver’s license/privilege a result of the conviction(s). Also, each conviction
followed by an employment and education or probation before judgment for a moving
only restriction for a period of 90 days. violation (offense) will automatically require the
licensee to begin a new 18-month conviction-
free period.

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F. Use of Disability Parking Spaces,
License Plates and Placards
Substantial fines may be imposed for the illegal
use or abuse of disability parking spaces and
disability license plates and placards. Citations
may be issued for the following violations:
• Parking in disability parking spaces unless
you have a disability license plate or placard
issued by the MDOT MVA and the person
who qualified for the privilege is either
operating or being transported in the vehicle.
• Parking in front of or blocking any part of a
curb cut (even if you have a disability license
plate or placard).
• Parking on any part of an access aisle next to
a disability parking space (even if you have
a disability license plate or placard).
• Using a disability placard
after its expiration date.
• Using a disability license plate
or placard, without the person
with the disability present
and being transported, and without proper
identification.
• Any fraud or misrepresentation when
applying for a disability license plate or
placard.
Additional information regarding disability parking
may be obtained by visiting the MDOT MVA
website.

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 Other Important
SECTION 10: Information

A. Medical Conditions to Report to • A mental health condition that may affect

MDOT MVA your ability to drive.
Approval by the MDOT MVA’s Driver Wellness • Schizophrenia.
and Safety Division and/or the Medical
• Dementia.
Advisory Board is required if a person has any
of the conditions listed below which may affect
B. Supervising Driver – Requirements
their ability to drive. If someone has one of these
medical conditions, they must notify MDOT
and Responsibilities
MVA when the condition is diagnosed or when Maryland learner’s permit holders may drive
applying for or renewing a driver’s license: only the vehicles or class of vehicles specified
on the learner’s permit, and then only while
• Diabetes that has caused a low blood sugar accompanied by a supervising driver who:
episode requiring assistance from another
person in the last 6 months. • Is at least 21 years old.
• Epilepsy or seizures. • Is currently licensed for at least three years
in Maryland or another state to drive
• A heart condition that has caused a loss of vehicles of the class being driven by the
consciousness in the past 6 months. holder of the permit.
• Stroke. • Is seated beside the holder of the learner’s
• A condition that causes you to have dizzy permit, unless the vehicle is a motorcycle.
spells, fainting, or blackouts.
• Sleep apnea or narcolepsy. C. Organ Donor
Maryland residents can give the gift of life and
• A history of traumatic brain injury (TBI).
health to someone else by donating organs or
• A condition that causes weakness, shaking, tissues after death. Anyone 18 years of age or
or numbness in the arms, hands, legs, or feet older may be an organ donor. Minors who are at
that may affect your ability to drive. least 16 years old may add a donor designation
• A hand, arm, foot, or leg that is absent, if a parent or guardian consents in writing. Look
amputated, or has a loss of function that may for the statement on your license application
affect your ability to drive. or renewal notice that states “Please check, if
upon your death, you desire to help others by
• An eye problem which prevents a corrected becoming an organ donor. By checking “YES,”
minimum visual acuity of 20/70 in at least you authorize all necessary personal information
one eye or binocular field of vision of at least to be forwarded to the Maryland Department of
110 degrees. Health and Mental Hygiene and maintained in
• Alcohol use problem. the Maryland Organ Donor Registry.” Additional
information on the organ donor program may be
• Drug use problem.
found on the MDOT MVA website.

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D. Register to Vote the manufacturer. The restraint must be used in
The National Voter Registration Act of 1993, accordance with the child safety seat and vehicle
often referred to as “Motor Voter,” is a federal manufacturers’ instructions. Child safety seats
law that requires the MDOT MVA to provide its include car seats, booster seats or other federally
eligible customers the opportunity to apply to approved child safety devices. If you are unable
register to vote, or update voting information, to purchase or obtain a child safety seat, you
during a driver’s license or photo identification may contact Kids In Safety Seats (KISS), at the
(ID) card transaction. Maryland Department of Health and Mental
Hygiene at 800-370-SEAT. KISS coordinates
E. Insurance Requirements loaner programs in various areas of the State that
rent car seats or booster seats at a minimal cost to
All motor vehicles registered in Maryland must
families who cannot afford to purchase them. Seat
be insured by a company licensed in Maryland.
availability may vary per site.
Vehicle owners must have their vehicles insured
for personal injury and property damage liability
in amounts required by law. See the MDOT MVA
H. Air Bags
website for additional information regarding Air bags are important safety devices that
specific amounts of required insurance. provide protection in crashes. For best protection:
All drivers are required to have in their • They must be used in combination with the
possession a valid insurance identification card vehicle’s lap and shoulder belt.
at all times while operating a motor vehicle.. • Children in a rear-facing car seat should
This card may be in electronic format and must never ride in the front seat of a vehicle with a
be presented on request of a law enforcement passenger air bag.
officer. Failure to comply with this requirement
• Sit as far back from the steering wheel as
may result in the imposition of fines.
practical. Try to maintain 10-12 inches from the
steering wheel to the chest.
F. Seat Belt Law
Maryland Motor Vehicle Law requires • Children, under age 13, should ride buckled
that the driver and all passengers of a up in a rear seat, in an appropriate child
motor vehicle must wear a seat belt or safety seat or seat belt.
be restrained in a child safety seat if • Pregnant women should place the lap
applicable. portion of the seat belt under the abdomen
as low as possible on the hips and across the
G. Child Safety Seats upper thighs and the shoulder belt over the
All children under age eight must ride in an rounding of the belly.
appropriate child safety seat, unless the child
is 4’9” or taller. Children younger than 2 years I. Braking with Anti-lock Braking
old must ride in a rear-facing child safety seat System (ABS)
that complies with federal guidelines until the Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS) are designed to
child reaches the height or weight specified by prevent your wheels from locking up and allow

52
 you to steer. Whenever the vehicle’s computer provide a demonstration of the applicant’s
detects that one or more wheels are locking, ABS judgement of space; use of mirrors and turn
begins to pump the brakes at a much faster rate signals; steering; breaking; acceleration control;
to avoid locking. When the ABS engages, you and visual, backing, and general driving skills.
may hear a rumble from the brakes and the brake The parking is demonstrated in a 10’ by 20’
pedal will vibrate under your foot. You should space, and the turnabout in a 16’ by 20’ space.
refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for more
information regarding anti-lock braking systems. M. Rules and Tips for Bicyclists
Like motor vehicle operators, bicyclists have both
J. Wearing of Headsets, Earphones and rights and responsibilities for operating on the
Earplugs Prohibited road safely. Do your part by being a safe and
Earplugs, headsets or earphones, attached to a courteous bicyclist.
radio, portable audio device, CD player or other Obey the Rules of the Road: Ride straight
audio device, that are in or cover both ears are and single file in a predictable manner. Plan
prohibited while driving a motor vehicle. Hearing ahead and allow time to maneuver around road
aid devices are acceptable. hazards and to negotiate with traffic and open
car doors. Yield to pedestrians and obey all
K. Parallel Parking traffic signals and signs.
Parallel parking is no longer required during the
Ride with Traffic: Always ride on the right
on course testing, but is still included in the driving
side. Use caution if passing other traffic on the
education curriculum. While this maneuver
right. When approaching an intersection, use the
provides visual skills, judgment of space, use
appropriate lane for the direction you intend to
of mirrors and turn signals, steering, braking
travel (left, straight, right).
and acceleration control, etc., these skills are
demonstrated during the “Reverse Two-Point Signal All Turns: Look back before you make a
Turn”, that is required during course testing. lane change or turn. Signal safely in advance
using one of these signals:
L. Pull-In Parking, Back-In Parking, and
Three-Point Turnabout
Required of all applicants to obtain/reinstate
a Class “C” driver’s license. These maneuvers

Remember: it is against the

law to drive without vehicle
Make Left Hand Turns Safely: You may turn
insurance! If you do not maintain left as a vehicle (1) by moving into the left side
your vehicle insurance on all of the travel lane (or left turn lane) OR cross like
vehicles, you will be fined up to a pedestrian (2) by stopping, dismounting, and
$2,500 per vehicle each year. walking across crosswalks.

53
 Be Prepared for Slick Road Conditions: • Has two or three wheels.
When braking in the rain or snow, allow extra • Has a motor with a rating of 750 watts or less.
distance to stop and look for pavement markings
and utility covers, which may become slippery. Electric Bicycle Classes
Be Visible - Use Lights at Night: When riding Class 1: Equipped with a motor that provides
at night, Maryland State Law requires a white assistance only when the rider is pedaling and
headlight on the front and a red reflector on the ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle
back visible from at least 600 feet. In addition, it is reaches a speed of 20 miles per hour
recommended that you wear bright clothing in the
Class 2: Equipped with a motor that provides
daytime and reflective clothing for night riding.
assistance whether or not the rider is pedaling the
bicycle and ceases to provide assistance when
Bicycle Equipment:
the bicycle reaches a speed of 20 miles per hour
Helmets are required for operators or
passengers of bicycles under the age of 16. Class 3: Equipped with a motor that provides
They are, however, strongly recommended for all assistance only when the rider is pedaling and
operators or passengers regardless of age. By ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle
law, all bicycles must be equipped with: reaches a speed of 28 miles per hour
• Brakes capable of stopping from a speed Electric Low Speed Scooters
of 10 mph within 15 feet on dry, level, clean
• Designed to transport only the operator.
pavement.
• Weighs less than100 pounds.
• A white beam headlight visible at a distance
of 500 feet, and a red rear reflector, visible • Has single wheels in tandem or a
at a distance of 600 feet, if ridden at night or combination of one or two wheels
during unfavorable light conditions; at the front and rear of the vehicle.
• A safety seat, firmly secured to the bicycle, • Is equipped with handlebars and a platform
or a trailer must be used if traveling with a designed to be stood on while riding.
small child; • Is solely powered by an electric motor and
• A bicycle basket, rack or bag must be used human power.
in transporting small articles so that both • Is capable of operating at a speed of up to
hands may be kept on the handlebars. 20 miles per hour.

N. Electric Low Speed Vehicles Note: Users of low speed electric vehicles
should check local jurisdictional restrictions to
(Definitions)
determine the legal operation of these vehicles.
Electric Bicycles
• Operated by human power with the
assistance of an electric motor.
• Equipped with fully operable pedals.

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