MARYLAND
Driver’s Manual
mva.maryland.gov
MarylandMVA
MD_MVA
For more information, visit:
6601 Ritchie Highway N.E.
Glen Burnie, MD 21062
410-768-7000
TTY for the Hearing Impaire
d: 1-800-492-4575
DL-002 (05-23)
DL-002 (07-24)
Administrator, MDOT MVA
Administrator’s Message
Dear Future Driver:
You are about to take steps to get a Maryland driver’s license. This is an exciting time for any new driver! It is
important to remember that driving is a privilege, and you play a part in making sure that everyone stays safe on
our roads. There are many important things to know – this manual is your guide.
Be the Driver Who Saves Lives
As you travel Maryland’s roads, you will come across drivers who are different ages and have different skill
levels. But we all have one thing in common: a responsibility to each other to Be the Driver Who Saves Lives.
That means keeping yourself and others safe on the road. 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.
• Treat other drivers and passengers with respect.
Like any other new skill you are learning, you will get better at driving with more experience on different
roads, under different conditions, and in different environments. For example, driving in bad weather, in heavy
traffic, and at different times of day. Each of us is responsible every time we get behind the wheel to:
• Drive sober.
• Pay attention.
• Wear a seat belt.
It is up to you to make safe choices behind the wheel. Unfortunately, every day, thousands of drivers decide
to drive distracted or impaired, speed, or take their aggression out on other people on the road. This puts
themselves anad others at risk. We all need to look out for each other.
The Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) is committed to driver safety.
Our goal is to reach zero fatalities (no deaths) on Maryland’s roads, because even one life lost is one too many.
After reading this manual, test your understanding of the rules of the road by taking our Online Driver Test
Tutorial. It is located on the MVA website, mva.maryland.gov/drivers.
We look forward to serving you.
Stay safe,
• Follow speed limits.
• Look twice for motorcycles.
• Share the road with pedestrians (people who are walking) and bicyclists.
Table of Contents
Section 1: Driving Tests Requirements .. 7
A. Vision Screening ............................................................ 7
B. Knowledge Test .............................................................7
C. Driving Skills Test ............................................................ 7
D. Reportable Medical Conditions ................................ 8
Section 2: Licensing Requirements
and Process ......................... 9
A. Rookie Driver/Graduated
Licensing System .......................................................... 9
B. Learner’s Instructional Permit ......................................9
C. Provisional License .........................................................10
D. Driver’s License ............................................................... 11
E. Co-Signer of Minor’s Application for a License ..... 11
F. Co-Signer Cancellation of a
Minor’s License ............................................................ 11
G. Out-of-Country Licenses .............................................. 11
H. Equity for All Customers................................................12
Section 3: Basic Driving .............. 13
A. Drive Defensively ...........................................................13
B. Right-of-Way .................................................................. 13
C. Understanding Vehicle Speed .................................... 14
D. Following Distance ........................................................15
E. Stopping Distance .........................................................15
F. Lane Driving .................................................................... 15
G. Turning ..............................................................................15
H. U-turn................................................................................15
I. Passing ............................................................................. 16
J. General Parking Rules ..................................................16
Section 4: Signs, Signals and
Pavement Markings .................. 17
A. Traffic Signals .................................................................17
Vehicle Signals ............................................................... 17
Crosswalk Signals ......................................................... 19
B. Traffic Signs .....................................................................20
Colors & Shapes ........................................................... 20
Regulatory Signs ............................................................ 21
Warning Signs ............................................................... 22
Other Traffic Sign Types ............................................... 23
C. Pavement Markings ...................................................... 24
Types of Line Markings .................................................24
Other Pavement Markings ...........................................25
Pedestrian and Bicycle Pavement Markings ........... 25
Section 5: Driving Situations
and Conditions ...................... 27
A. Driving in Reduced Visibility......................................... 27
B. Driving at Night ..............................................................27
C. Driving in Fog .................................................................. 28
D. Driving in Inclement Weather ......................................28
E. Skidding ...........................................................................29
F. Hydroplaning ................................................................. 29
G. Highway-Railroad Crossings ...................................... 30
H. Work Zone Safety ......................................................... 30
I. Traffic Circles (Roundabouts) ...................................... 31
J. Interstate Driving and Limited Access Highways .... 31
K. Funeral Processions ....................................................... 32
L. Slow Moving Vehicles .................................................. 32
Section 6: Dangerous Driving
Behaviors ........................... 33
A. Alcohol, Drugs and Driving .........................................33
B. Aggressive Driving and Road Rage ......................... 34
C. Distracted Driving .......................................................... 34
D. Drowsy Driving ...............................................................35
Section 7: Sharing the Road ........... 37
A. Pedestrian Right-of-Way .............................................. 37
B. Emergency Vehicles ...................................................... 37
C. Large Trucks and Buses ................................................37
D. School Buses ..................................................................38
E. Motorcycles ...................................................................39
F. Bicycles ............................................................................ 39
G. Mopeds and Scooters .................................................41
H. Understanding Vehicle Technologies ........................ 41
Section 8: Crashes and Traffic Stops .... 43
A. Crashes ............................................................................43
B. Roadside Emergencies ................................................ 44
C. Traffic Stops .................................................................... 44
D. Move Over Law ............................................................ 45
Section9: Other Restrictions, Violations
and Penalties ........................ 47
A. Restrictions ....................................................................... 47
B. Drug and Alcohol Test – 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. Penalties ...........................................................................49
F. Use of Disability Parking Spaces, License Plates
and Placards ..................................................................49
Table of Contents
Section 10: Other Important
Information ......................... 51
A. Medical Conditions to Report to MVA .....................51
B. Supervising Driver – Requirements and
Responsibilities................................................................51
C. Organ Donor ................................................................. 51
D. Register to Vote .............................................................. 52
E. Insurance Requirements ................................................52
F. Seat Belt Law ..................................................................52
G. Child Safety Seats .........................................................52
H. Air Bags ........................................................................... 52
I. Braking with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) .......... 52
J. Wearing of Headsets, Earphones and Earplugs
Prohibited ......................................................................... 53
K. Parallel Parking ............................................................... 53
L. Pull-In Parking, Back-In Parking, and Three-Point
Turn .................................................................................. 53
M. Rules and Tips for Bicyclists .......................................... 53
N. Electric Low Speed Vehicles (Definitions) ...............54
Meet the drivers who
are saving lives in Maryland.
Caucasian male Latin Male Latin female Asian female
Caucasian male Latin Male Latin female Asian female
Caucasian male Latin Male Latin female Asian female
Caucasian male Latin Male Latin female Asian female
Bar tender African American Male Caucasian female
Bar tender African American Male Caucasian 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.
7
You must get a driver’s license before driving a
motor vehicle. Cars, vans, and pick-up trucks are
examples of motor vehicles. To get a driver’s license,
you must take and pass some tests. These tests are
called licensing requirements. Licensing requirements
include a:
• Vision screening.
• Knowledge test.
• Driving skills test.
Some people may have to meet other requirements
to show that they can drive safely. The Maryland
Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle
Administration (MVA) will let you know if you must
meet other requirements.
A. Vision Screening
A vision screening tests how well you can see. The
MVA or your eye doctor can do the screening.
To qualify for a driver’s license, the applicant
must have:
• Binocular vision.
• Visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye.
• A continuous field of vision of at least 140
degrees.
The MVA or your eye doctor can explain what
this means. They can tell you if you meet these
requirements.
If you need glasses or contact lenses to meet
these requirements, you must always wear them
when you drive. Your license will say that.
There is additional information on the MVA
website for people who do not meet the vision
requirements.
B. Knowledge Test
The knowledge test checks to see if you know
about:
• Motor vehicle laws.
• Safe driving practices.
• Traffic signs.
This manual includes all the information you
will be tested on. You take the knowledge test
at an MVA location. There are 25 questions
on the test. You will have 20 minutes to take
the test. See Section 2.A. if you need special
accommodations.
There is an Online Driver Test Tutorial on
the MVA’s website. The tutorial has practice
questions that help you get ready for the
knowledge test. You should also study all the
information in this manual to help you pass
the knowledge test.
C. Driving Skills Test
The driving test is how the MVA checks to see that
you have the skills to drive safely and responsibly.
The test includes driving on public roads and a
special course at the testing location.
You must make an appointment to take the driver’s
skills test. To make an appointment, you can:
• Visit mva.maryland.gov and click on “Make
an Appointment,” or
• Call 410-768- 7000 or 1-800-492-4575
(TTY for the deaf and hard of hearing).
SECTION 1:
Driving Tests Requirements
8
You take the driving skills test using a vehicle
you bring to the test. It must meet the following
requirements for you to use it for the test:
• The vehicle must have up-to-date license
plates and registration.
• You must have proof that the vehicle is insured.
The vehicle must be:
• Safe to drive.
• Have no cracks or other things on the
windshield that could affect your ability to see.
• Have at least a half tank of gas.
A “supervising driver” must come with you to
the test site. Section 10 of this manual explains
who supervising drivers are. Only you and the
person giving you the test are allowed in the
vehicle during the test. An interpreter that the
MVA approves can also be in the car if you
need one.
To help keep you and MVA employees healthy
and safe:
• We encourage you to keep air flowing in
the vehicle during the test. For example, by
opening the windows. The person giving you
the test may suggest other things.
• You can wear a mask during the test if you
want.
• If you are not feeling well, you should
reschedule your appointment.
Did you know highway
workers remove over two
million pounds of litter from
state roads each year? Fines
for littering
can cost up
to $1500 or
30 days in
prison.
D. Reportable Medical Conditions
You must let the MVA know if you have a
medical condition that could affect your ability to
drive. State law requires this. See Section10 for
a list of medical conditions you must report, and
when to report them.
9
This section explains what you must do to get a
Maryland driver’s license. The information is for
people who want a “noncommercial driver’s”
license. A noncommercial driver’s license allows you
to drive regular vehicles like cars, pickup trucks, and
vans. It is also called a Class C driver’s license.
To start the process, make an appointment to visit any
MVA branch. When you apply, you must bring:
A document (record) that proves your age. This
must include your full name. Examples are your birth
certificate or passport.
• A document that proves your lawful status (for
anyone born outside of the United States).
• Your Social Security Number (SSN), or proof
that you are not eligible for a SSN.
• Two documents that prove that you live in
Maryland.
You must bring original documents or copies certified
by the agency that provided them to you. The MVA
will not accept photocopies, notarized copies, or
documents with changed or erased information.
Please visit our website for a complete list of the
documents the MVA accepts.
A. Rookie Driver/Graduated
Licensing System
The process you go through to get a
noncommercial driver’s license is called the
Rookie Driver/Graduated Driver Licensing
System (GLS). You go through the GLS process
if you have never had a driver’s license before.
It applies to people of all ages who are eligible
to apply for a driver’s license. You start by
getting a Learner’s Instructional Permit and then a
Provisional License. These steps give you driving
experience before “graduating” to a Driver’s
License. Keep reading to learn more.
B. Learner’s Instructional Permit
If you have never had a noncommercial,
driver’s license you must get a Type 1 Learner’s
Instructional Permit. The Permit lasts up to 2
years. You must pass a vision screening and
knowledge test to get the Permit.
If you already have a driver’s license and want a
different class of driver’s license, you must apply
for a Type 2 Learner’s Instructional Permit. You must
be at least 16 years and 6 months old. The Type
2 Learner’s Instructional Permit lasts for up to 180
days. You can take the driving test for a full license
once you have had this Permit for at least 14 days.
The amount of time you must have a Learner’s
Instructional Permit before you are eligible for a
Provisional License depends on your age. People
who apply for a permit are called “applicants.”
Applicants younger than 25:
• Must be at least 15 years and 9 months old.
• If under age 18, your parent or legal
guardian must co-sign the application.
• If under age 16, you must provide a
completed Learner’s Permit School
Attendance Certification form (DL-300).
While you have your Learner’s Instructional
Permit, you must:
• Complete the Maryland Driver Education
Program. It helps new drivers learn information
and skills needed to drive a motor vehicle. The
MVA website lists driver’s education schools
approved to teach this program. AND
SECTION 2:
Licensing Requirements
and Process
10
• Practice driving at least 60 hours with a
supervising driver. These are called practice
hours. At least 10 practice hours must occur
during the period beginning 30 minutes
before sunset and ending 30 minutes after
sunrise. AND
• Keep a Practice and Skills Log to record your
practice hours. You can find the Practice and
Skills Log on the MVA website.
Applicants 25 years old and older:
While you have your Learner’s Instructional
Permit, you must:
• Complete the Maryland Driver Education
Program. AND
• Complete at least 14 practice hours with a
supervising driver. At least 3 practice hours
must occur during the period beginning 30
minutes before sunset and ending 30 minutes
after sunrise. AND
• Keep a Practice and Skills Log to record you
practice hours. The Practice and Skills Log is
on the MVA website.
You must have your permit for at least 45 days
before the you are eligible for a Provisional
License.
Violations
In some situations, you must have your permit
longer before being eligible for a Provisional
License:
• At any age, if you have been convicted of
or given a Probation Before Judgement (PBJ)
for a moving violation, you must hold the
Learner’s Instructional Permit at least 9 months
following the most recent date you were
convicted of or granted a PBJ for a moving
violation. This also applies if you have been
suspended for any reason. You must meet
the rest of the GLS requirements described
above before you are eligible to take a skills
driving test.
• If you are under age 18, you must hold the
Permit for at least 9 months without a violation
before being eligible for a Provisional License.
• If you are age 18 with a high school diploma
or GED, or age 19 to 24, you must hold the
Permit for at least 3 months without a violation
before being eligible for a Provisional License.
C. Provisional License
A Provisional Driver’s License is issued to new
drivers who have never held a driver’s license.
It permits you to drive without supervision but
with restrictions. Restrictions are things like no
passengers and no driving at night. You have a
Provisional Driver’s License for at least 18 months
before being eligible for a regular Driver’s License.
If you want to graduate from a Learner’s
Instructional Permit to a Provisional License, you
must:
• Have successfully completed a Maryland
approved driver education program.
• Have a valid, unexpired Learner’s
Instructional Permit.
• Hold a Learner’s Instructional Permit without
violations for the amount of time described
above.
• Not be convicted of any moving violations
or have been granted probation before
judgment for any moving violations during
time described above.
• Submit a completed and signed Practice and
Skills Log. This must show that you completed
11
at least 60 practice hours driving with a
supervising driver (14 if you are 25 or older).
• Successfully pass the driving skills test.
D. Driver’s License
A Driver’s License is the last stage of the
Graduated Driver Licensing System.
To be eligible for a Driver’s License, you must:
• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Have had a Provisional License for at least 8
months.
• Have not been convicted of any moving
violations or have been granted probation
before judgment for any moving violations
within the past 18 months.
When you have met all these requirements, the
MVA will automatically switch your Provisional
License to a Driver’s License. A card showing the
switch will be mailed to you. You must carry the
card with your Provisional License.
E. Co-Signer of Minor’s Application for
a License
If you are younger than 18 years old, you are
a minor. Minors must have a parent or legal
guardian co-sign their application. That means
you both sign it. You must provide proof that they
are your parent or guardian. Examples of proof
are:
• An original or certified birth certificate with
your parent’s name, or
• Court documents showing legal guardianship.
If you are married and your husband or wife is
18 or older, they can co-sign. You must provide
proof that you are married.
If you do not have a parent, legal guardian or
spouse, a responsible adult may co-sign if you
are under 18. An adult employer is one example.
In this case, you will need to provide proof
like your parents’ death certificates or proof of
emancipation. Emancipation means a court has
decided that a minor is no longer under their
parents’ control.
F. Co-Signer Cancellation of a
Minor’s License
The co-signer may cancel a minor’s license
by submitting a written request to the MVA’s
Administrative Adjudication Division. Your license
remains cancelled until you reach the age of 18,
unless a co-signer co-signs a new application for
you. They must meet the qualifications described
above.
G. Out-of-Country Licenses
If you have a license from another country, you
must successfully complete the following to get a
Maryland license:
• Vision screening.
• Knowledge test.
• Driving skills test.
• A three-hour alcohol and drug education
program approved by the MVA. You can
find a list of these on the MVA website.
If your license from another country is not in
English, you must also:
• Have an International License, or
• Have your license translated into English.
Document translations must be prepared by (and
12
on the letterhead of):
• An MVA approved provider or court
translator, OR
• The embassy of the country of origin.
These documents must contain the:
• Typed/printed name of the translator, AND
• Telephone number, AND
• Signature of the translator.
H. Equity for All Customers
For Foreign Language Customers
The MVA offers several documents and tests in
other languages for customers who need that.
If you have difficulty communicating in English,
you may be able to use an interpreter when
you visit the MVA, especially when taking the
knowledge test or driving test. If we offer the
knowledge test in the language that you speak,
you must take it at least 5 times before using
an interpreter. You can find a list of approved
interpreters on our website.
NOTE: The MVA does not charge a fee for
using an interpreter. However, you will have to
pay the interpreter for their services.
If you have an interpreter and/or translator when
you visit the MVA, they must show a valid photo
identification card (either a state driver’s license
or identification card) before providing on-site
interpretation and/or translation services. MVA
staff will confirm that the interpreter/translator is
on our approved list.
NOTE: Interpreters providing services for
knowledge/skills testing may not provide
other services to the customer being tested. For
example, they cannot certify residence, conduct
the business of a driving school, or issue lease/
rental agreements.
For Customers with Disabilities
The MVA provides accommodations to its
customers with disabilities taking the knowledge
and driver’s skills tests. This includes:
• Additional time for test taking.
• Sign language support (American Sign
Language and Certified Deaf Interpreters)
• Oral testing.
• Screen Readers.
• Headphones.
• Visual Aids.
MVA provides accommodations based on each
person’s needs. Please contact customer service
at: feedback.mva.maryland.gov
Developmental Disability
Disclosure Card
If you have a developmental disability, you can
choose to carry a Developmental Disability
Disclosure Card with your license. It is a blue
card the size of a driver’s license. It includes
space to provide details about your disability,
how best to communicate with you, and other
information you may want to share with law
enforcement.
Carrying a Developmental Disability Disclosure
Card is voluntary – you decide if you want one.
You or your parent or guardian can get a card
by visiting the information desk at any MVA
location. MVA will NOT ask you to provide
information or documentation about your
disability to get this card.
13
Before you drive:
• You and your vehicle should be in good
condition to drive.
• You must have a valid Learner’s Permit or
driver’s license, and vehicle registration card
with you.
• You should adjust your seat and mirrors, and
• You should make sure you and all
passengers are wearing a seat belt.
A. Drive Defensively
A basic rule of driving is that, at all times, the
driver should control the vehicle to avoid a
crash. When you drive a motor vehicle, you
are responsible for operating it safely. This will
reduce risks for yourself, your passengers, and
others using the road.
Visual Search/Driver Awareness
You must make constant decisions to be a
safe driver. To do this, you must know what is
happening around your vehicle at all times.
Constantly observing your surroundings helps you
to see problems that may cause you to change
speed or change lanes. This includes watching the
front, sides, and rear of your vehicle.
By searching ahead and being ready to change
speed or change lanes, you can drive more
safely and have time to identify risks. This is
called defensive driving.
Risk Management
Operating a motor vehicle is a risky activity.
Consider the following steps to manage risk and
be a safe and responsible driver:
• Adjust your speed, position, and direction to
respond to road conditions.
• Keep control of your vehicle.
• Increase the time you have to respond to
what is happening around you.
• Let other drivers know what you plan to do
by using turn signals, etc.
• Maintain a safe distance between your
vehicle and other people using the road.
• Do not assume that other drivers will do what
they are supposed to do.
• Always be careful.
B. Right-of-Way
Right-of-way rules help keep everyone on the
road safe. These rules state when you should
“yield the right-of-way” to others. Yielding the
right-of-way means letting other vehicles, bicyclists,
or pedestrians move ahead of you or cross the
road in front of you. It means letting them go first.
Although the rules state who should yield the
right-of-way in different situations, never assume
you automatically have the right-of-way (the right
to go first). You must always consider the situation
and circumstances.
You should yield the right-of-way to:
• The driver who is at or arrives before you at
an intersection.
• The driver on your right, if both of you arrive
at an intersection at the same time.
SECTION 3:
Basic Driving
14
• The driver on your right at a four-way
intersection with stop signs.
• Pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers who
are still in an intersection.
• Drivers already on the road as you stop at a
“T” intersection.
• Other drivers, if you are approaching an
intersection with a yield sign facing you.
• Drivers in the opposing traffic lane, when you
are making a left turn. The opposing traffic
lane is the one with vehicles going in the
opposite direction.
• Drivers on a road you are entering from a
driveway or a private road.
• Drivers already on a highway, if you are on
the entrance or acceleration ramp.
C. Understanding Vehicle Speed
Signs along the road tell you what the speed limit
is. The posted speed limit is the maximum legal
speed you can travel on a road under ideal
(perfect) conditions. You should not drive faster
than the speed limit. You are responsible for
always driving at a safe speed.
It is safest to drive at the same speed that most
traffic is moving, up to the maximum speed
limit. Driving at a speed lower than other traffic
encourages other vehicles to constantly pass
you. This increases the chances of a crash.
Speeding
Driving over the speed limit is one of the most
common causes of vehicle crashes. Excessive
speed does not save time and often leads to
decisions that put people at risk. Driving over
the speed limit has severe and often disastrous
effects because it:
• Reduces your ability to handle curves and
drive around obstacles in the road.
• Takes longer to stop your vehicle.
• Decreases your ability to recognize and
react to a hazard or dangerous situation.
• Increases the risk of crashes because other
vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians may not
be able to judge your distance accurately.
• Increases the force and impact in a crash,
which more likely results in serious injuries
and deaths.
Appropriate Speed for Conditions
You must recognize and adjust your speed to
adverse (bad) conditions. Maryland Vehicle Law
requires you to drive at a reasonable speed and
be aware of existing and potential hazards. You
may drive slower than the posted speed limit,
based on road conditions, but it is illegal to drive
any faster than the posted speed limit.
You should reduce your speed in the following
conditions to stay safe:
• Sharp curves or hills – where it is hard to see.
• Slippery roads.
• Roads where there may be pedestrians or
animals.
• Shopping centers, parking lots, and
downtown areas.
• Heavy traffic.
• Narrow bridges and tunnels.
• Toll plazas.
• Schools, playgrounds, and residential streets.
• Railroad grade crossings. This is when the
railroad tracks are level with the road.
15
D. Following Distance
Always keep a safe distance between your
vehicle and the one ahead of you. Most rear-
end crashes are caused by following too closely.
The MVA recommends a minimum following
distance of 3 to 4 seconds under ideal driving
conditions. This means it takes 3 to 4 seconds to
get to the same reference point as the car ahead
of you. A reference point is an object ahead,
like a bridge, overpass, sign, or mile marker.
Choose a reference point to determine if you
are following at a safe distance. As the car in
front of you passes that object, begin counting 1
one thousand, 2 one thousand, 3 one thousand,
etc. If you reach 3 one thousand or more before
your car reaches the object, you are at least
3 seconds behind the car in front of you and
traveling at a safe distance.
When following vehicles that stop often (buses,
delivery vans), you should increase the distance
between your vehicle and the one ahead of you to
four or five seconds, and possibly more if needed.
E. Stopping Distance
The distance it takes to stop your vehicle is
important to help you choose a safe driving
speed. Your stopping distance will depend upon
many things, including:
• The amount of time it takes you to see that
there is a dangerous situation.
• The type and condition of the road.
• The condition of your tire treads.
• The condition of your vehicle’s brakes.
F. Lane Driving
You should drive your vehicle in a single lane.
Do not switch lanes until you determine it is safe
to do so. You should not drift across lane lines or
make lane changes when in an intersection.
Generally, you should keep your vehicle to the
right of the center of the road, unless:
• You are passing another vehicle going in the
same direction,
• There is a traffic sign or signal saying it is
okay to do so, or
• There is something in the way that makes it
necessary for you to change your position
safely.
G. Turning
When turning, you should:
• Look for signs and signals that say when you
can turn.
• Plan your turn before reaching the turning
point.
• Switch on your turn signal before you get to
the turn to let other drivers know what you
plan to do.
• Look in front, behind, and to both sides of
your vehicle to make sure it is safe to turn.
• Adjust your speed for the turn.
H. U-turn
U-turns can be extremely dangerous and are not
legal everywhere. If you must make a U-turn, first
check to see if U-turns are allowed. If they are,
turn on your left turn signal and stop and yield
for traffic coming toward you. When the way
is clear, turn into the outside or right-hand lane
traveling in the opposite direction.
You are responsible for
controlling your vehicle
to avoid a crash.
16
I. Passing
When passing other vehicles is allowed, you must:
• Estimate the time and space needed to pass
and be sure you can pass without getting in
the way of any other vehicle.
• Use your turn signal before passing so drivers
around you know what you plan to do.
• Leave plenty of space and go around the
other vehicle at a safe distance.
• See both headlights of the passed vehicle in
your rear-view mirror before returning to the
lane you came from.
Generally, you should pass on the left side of
the other vehicle. However, it is ok to pass on
the right side if it is safe to do so, you stay on the
road, and:
• The other vehicle is about to make a left turn.
• You are on an unobstructed road with two
or more lanes moving in the same direction.
Unobstructed means there are no median
strips, signs, or other things in the way.
• You are on an unobstructed one-way road
with two or more lanes.
When being passed by another vehicle, you
must yield to the other vehicle and not increase
your speed.
You may not pass:
• When you are in a no-passing zone.
• Where the solid yellow line in the middle of
the road is on your side.
• Where there are double solid yellow lines.
• When passing will interfere with the safe
operation of other vehicles.
• When approaching the top of a hill or on a
curve and you cannot clearly see ahead.
• When your view is obstructed as you come
within 100 feet of a bridge, elevated road, or
tunnel.
• When crossing or within 100 feet of an
intersection or railroad grade crossing.
• On the shoulder of the road, either to the right
or to the left.
J. General Parking Rules
You are responsible for making sure that your
vehicle is not a hazard when it is parked. This
means it doesn’t cause harm to anyone. You
should always:
• Park in areas that are clearly meant for parking.
• When parking along the road, park your
vehicle as far away from traffic as possible. If
there is a curb, park as close to it as possible.
• Set your parking brake when
you park.
• Place the vehicle in gear if
it has a manual transmission
or in ‘park’ if it has an
automatic transmission.
• Check your mirrors and traffic before
opening the door. Shut the door as soon as
you can after getting out.
• Take your car keys with you. It is a good
habit to lock the doors whenever you leave
your vehicle.
In areas where you see
“stay right” signs, drive
in the right-hand lane
or lanes unless you are
passing a vehicle.
17
SECTION 4:
Signs, Signals and
Pavement Markings
Everyone must obey traffic control devices.
Traffic control devices are traffic signals, signs,
and pavement markings (lines on the road) that
regulate, warn, and guide traffic. Failing to obey
traffic control devices is a major cause of crashes.
The only time you do not have to obey all traffic
control devices is when one of the following tells
you to do something different:
• A police officer or other emergency
personnel.
• A school crossing guard in uniform
directing traffic near a school.
When you come to an intersection, you may not
drive across private property or leave the road to
avoid obeying a traffic control device.
1. Steady Red Signal
Come to a complete stop at the stop
line. If there is no stop line, stop before
the crosswalk and before entering the
intersection. Remain stopped as long as the
signal is red.
Unless a sign prohibits turning on red, after
coming to a complete stop, you may:
• Turn right, or
• Turn left from a one-way street to
another one-way street.
When turning on a red signal, you must yield
the right-of-way to pedestrians and all other
traffic.
A. Traffic Signals
When a traffic signal is not working:
• You must stop at a clearly marked stop line. A
stop line is a wide white line painted across
the road that shows where you must stop at
an intersection.
• If there is no clearly marked stop line, you
must stop before entering a crosswalk.
• If there is no clearly marked stop line or
crosswalk, you must stop before entering the
intersection.
• You must yield to vehicles and pedestrians
in the intersection, and remain stopped until
it is safe to enter and continue through the
intersection.
Vehicle Signals
2. Steady Yellow Signal
This means that the signal is changing from
green to red. It gives you time to stop safely.
It also provides time for vehicles already in
the intersection to get through the intersection
before the signal turns red. If you are too close
to the intersection to stop safely, carefully
continue through the intersection.
3. Steady Green Signal
Proceed with caution after you have checked
first to see that no other vehicles are in the
intersection. This means be careful and pay
close attention. When it is safe to proceed, you
may enter the intersection to go straight-ahead
or turn unless a sign or another signal prohibits
the turn. You must yield to pedestrians and
vehicles already in the intersection.
18
4. Steady Red Arrow Signal
If you want to go in the direction the arrow
is pointing to, come to a complete stop
before reaching the stop line, crosswalk, or
intersection. Remain stopped as long as the
arrow signal is red.
5. Steady Yellow Arrow Signal
This means that permission to turn in the
direction of the arrow is ending. You should
slow down and proceed with caution.
6. Steady Green Arrow Signal
Proceed with caution in the direction the
arrow points. Remember that you must yield
to all pedestrians and vehicles already in
the intersection.
7. Flashing Red Signal
Come to a complete stop at the stop
line. If there is no stop line, stop before
the crosswalk and before entering the
intersection. Yield to all other traffic and
pedestrians. Proceed when the way is clear.
If a flashing red signal is located at a
railroad crossing, you must come to a
complete stop, even if you do not see a
train. 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.
Yield to all other traffic and pedestrians.
Proceed in the direction of the arrow when
the way is clear.
10. Lane Use Signals
On some roads, traffic in some lanes can
go in one direction during certain hours of
the day, and the other direction during other
hours. This is based on how heavy traffic is
at different times of day. These are called
reversible lanes. Lane use signals tell you
which direction you can go. The lanes and
their directions may be marked with signs,
signals, and markings.
You must never drive in a lane under a red
“X” signal.
You may drive in a lane under a green
arrow signal.
A steady yellow “X” signal means you
should move out of the lane as soon as you
safely can.
A flashing yellow “X” signal or two-way
left-turn arrows mean you can use the lane
for a left turn. You will likely be sharing the
lane with left-turning vehicles coming from
the opposite direction.
Vehicle Signals (cont.)
19
Pedestrians: Drivers:
A crosswalk signal stops traffic so pedestrians can cross the road safely. Pedestrians use the signal by
pushing a button on a pole on the side of the road. It tells drivers to stop and then tells pedestrians to cross.
Below are the signals that pedestrians and drivers see.
Go.Stop. Push button
to cross.
Flashing yellow.
Slow down.
Wait!
Solid yellow.
Get ready to stop.
Continue to wait.
Solid red. Stop!
Look both ways.
Start crossing after
traffic has stopped.
Flashing red. Stop.
Proceed with caution.
Don’t start. Finish
crossing if started.
Stop. Traffic has
started moving.
Proceed with caution.
Crosswalk Signals
See This See ThisDo This Do This
20
B. Traffic Signs
Red - Stop, yield, do not enter, or
wrong way.
Yellow - General warning of what to
expect ahead.
White - Speed limit, keep right, and some
guide signs.
Orange - Construction and maintenance
work area warning.
Green - Destinations, distances, and
directions.
Blue - Services like food, gas, and rest
area signs.
Brown - Recreation and cultural
interest areas.
Fluorescent Yellow-Green - School,
pedestrian and bicycle signs.
Fluorescent Pink - Emergency traffic
incidents.
Black - One Way signs and signs that
change messages.
Traffic signs use symbols and words to communicate information. You should be able to quickly identify traffic
signs by their shapes and colors, and the words, numbers, or symbols on them. The main background color of
a traffic sign can quickly tell you what kind of information it has.
Octagon: Stop
The octagonal (eight-sided) shape always means stop.
You must come to a complete stop.
Triangle: Yield
Slow down and, if necessary, stop to give the right-
of- way to other vehicles and pedestrians.
Diamond: Warning
These signs warn you of special conditions or hazards
ahead. You may have to slow down, so be ready to
take appropriate action.
Pennant: No Passing
Marks the start of a no passing zone. Do not pass
other vehicles.
Rectangle: Regulatory or Guide
Vertical signs usually give instructions or tell you
the rules of the road. Horizontal signs usually give
directions or information.
Pentagon: School Zone and School Crossing
The pentagon (five-sided) shape warns you of school
zones and marks school crossings.
Round: Railroad Warning
Used to warn that there is a railroad crossing ahead.
Crossbuck: Highway—Rail Grade Crossing
Identifies the location of a railroad crossing.
Trapezoid
Recreation and cultural interest areas and
National Forest Routes.
Colors & Shapes
21
1. 8-Sided Sign, White Letters on Red
The stop sign is the only 8-sided sign you will see on the road. 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.
You must yield to vehicles and pedestrians in the intersection; and remain stopped until it is safe
to enter and continue through the intersection.
2. 3-Sided Sign, Red Letters on White
The yield sign is the only sign shaped like this. Slow down as you come to a yield sign. Look
to the left and the right. Yield to pedestrians, bicycles, and vehicles. Once you have yielded to
vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians, you may proceed only when you can do so safely.
3. Rectangular (4-Sided) Signs, Black on White
These signs regulate traffic. This sign tells you the maximum speed limit for the part of the road where
it is posted.
These signs are about traffic laws. You must obey them.
Regulatory Signs
No Right Turn No Left Turn No U-Turn No Turns
Left Turn Only Do Not Enter
No Parking No Turn On Red
Do Not Pass Stay to Right of
Median
Left Turn Yield
on Green
Bike Lane
Wrong Way
Reserved for
People with
Disability Parking
Permits
Two-way Left
Vehicles traveling in
either direction can
use the center lane to
turn left.
One Way
Traffic can only go
in the direction of the
arrow.
High Occupancy Vehicles
You may only use this lane if you have the
number of the people that is marked on the sign.
22
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
Crossing
Traffic Circle/
Roundabout
Speed Limit Exit Ramp
Advisory Speed
No Passing Zone
Two Roads
Merging
Road Divides
Ahead
Divided Road
Ends Ahead
Road Curves
Sharp Turns
Road Curves
Side Road Enters
Ahead
Lane Ends
Merge Left
Intersection
“T” Intersection
Ahead
Railroad before
“T” Intersection
Steep Hill
Slippery When
Wet
Lane Ends
Truck Crossing
Trail Crossing
Pedestrian and
Bicycle Crossing
Flagger Ahead
Roadwork Ahead
Detour
School Crossing
Ahead
School Bus Stop
Ahead
Warning Signs
23
Overhead Lane Use
You will see these signs above the
road. They provide information about
destinations, directions, and how to
use the lanes.
Mile Marker Signs
These are located every mile on
interstate highways. They provide
location information you can use if
you need someone to find you. For
example, a tow truck or emergency
personnel.
Route Marker Signs
Some roads are numbered. They are
called route numbers. These signs
identify the route number and the type
of road.
Interstate U.S. Route State Route
Park and Ride Destination Guide General Services Sign
Service Information
and Guide Signs
These signs identify the businesses
and services you can find if you
take certain exits.
Lodging
Hospital
Gas
Food
Airport
Train Station
Other Traffic Sign Types
24
Pavement markings are lines on the road. They provide important guidance and information without requiring
you to look away from the road. You should recognize all the following pavement markings and understand
what they mean. Lines may be extra wide in some locations and/or have reflective markers attached to draw
your attention and help you see the lines.
Single Broken - White
Separates lanes where all traffic is going
in the same direction, and crossing from
one lane to the other is permitted. Used on
roads with more than one lane.
Single Broken - Yellow
Separates lanes where vehicles are
traveling in opposite directions, and
passing with care is permitted in either
direction. Used as the center line on
2-lane, 2-way roads.
Single Solid - White
Marks the right edge of the road. Also
separates lanes where all vehicles are
going in the same direction, but lane
changing is discouraged.
Single Solid - Yellow
Marks left edge lines on divided
highways, one-way roads, and ramps.
A divided highway has a guardrail, strip
of land, or other barrier between traffic
travelling in each direction.
Double (side-by-side)
Broken - Yellow
Marks the edges of reversible lanes –
lanes where traffic flows in one direction
some times and the other direction other
times. You may enter and exit the lane
based on what traffic signs and signals
say is permitted.
Double (side-by-side)
Solid - White
Separates lanes where all traffic is going in
the same direction and you are not allowed
to change lanes. May also be used to
separate general lanes from HOV lanes.
Also, may be used before obstructions that
you may pass on either side.
Double (side-by-side)
Solid - Yellow
Separates lanes where traffic is going
in opposite directions and passing is not
allowed in either direction. You may make
a left turn across a double solid yellow line.
For example, when turning into a driveway.
Solid plus Broken - Yellow
Used on two-way roads where passing
is permitted in only one direction. Careful
passing is:
• Allowed for traffic on the side of the
broken line.
• Not allowed for traffic on the side of
the solid line.
Also used to mark the edges of two-way
left turn lanes – solid lines are on the
outside and broken lines are on the inside.
Single Dotted– Yellow or
White
Continues lane lines through intersections.
Drivers in intersections should stay inside
the lane markings.
or
C. Pavement Markings
Types of Line Markings
25
Other pavement markings are critical to safe
driving. It is also important to recognize and
understand them. They include:
Stop Line
White, solid line that shows where a
vehicle must stop for a STOP sign or
red traffic signal.
Yield Lines
Rows of small triangles across the
lane that show where a vehicle must yield to
other vehicles or pedestrians.
Most Maryland roads that bicycles share with
motor vehicles don’t have specific traffic signs
or pavement markings. Some roads do have
shared-use lane markings (see photos). They are
mostly in cities. These markings:
• Alert drivers that bicyclists may be on the
road,
• Tell bicyclists where to ride, and
• Discourage biking in the wrong direction.
Some roads have pavement
markings that show lanes that
are just for bicycles. Solid or
broken white lines separate
these bike lanes from motor
vehicle lanes. You may see
bike lanes marked with bike
lane signs or by bicycle
symbols and arrows.
Word and Symbol Markings
Markings that tell you:
• How to use a lane.
• About lane reductions (for
example, the road is changing
from two lanes to just one).
• What direction to travel.
• Markings used with arrows or
other word messages to show
how you may move in that lane.
• ‘SCHOOL’ and ‘RxR’ markings to
warn that you are approaching
school areas and railroad crossings.
Where parallel parking is allowed, similar lines
may separate the bicycle lanes from the parking
lanes.
Pedestrian crosswalk lines
are white, solid lines that
show where pedestrians
cross. Crosswalks may
have additional lines
between the white, solid
lines or in place of them.
Other Pavement Markings
Pedestrian and Bicycle Pavement Markings
26
Bar tender African American Male Caucasian female
be the
buckled up
drıver
Caucasian male Latin Male Latin female Asian female
be the
slow down
drıver
According to the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration, a crash on
a road with a speed limit of 65 miles per
hour (mph) or higher is:
• More than twice as likely to result in
death than a crash on a road with a
speed limit of 45 or 50 mph.
• Nearly five times as likely to result in
death than a crash on a road with a
speed limit of 40 mph or lower.
Be the SLOW DOWN Driver urges drivers
to obey speed limits. If you have a need
for speed, stick to playing video games.
Wearing a seat belt is the single most
effective way to prevent death and
serious injury in a car crash. Be the
BUCKLED UP Driver and wear your
seat belt – every trip, every ride, front
seat or back seat. About 90 percent of
Maryland drivers and passengers wear
their seat belt, but our goal is 100
percent. Each year, hundreds of
drivers and passengers not wearing a
seat belt are seriously injured or killed
on our roads. Most of those injuries
and deaths could have been avoided if
those people were buckled up 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.
27
SECTION 5:
Driving Situations
and Conditions
A. Driving in Reduced Visibility
Visibility is your ability to clearly see everything
around you on the road, like other vehicles,
pedestrians, road signs, signals, and pavement
markings. Reduced or low visibility means it is
harder to see these things. Different things can
cause reduced visibility, but the most common
ones are darkness, fog, heavy rain, and snow.
Driving when visibility is reduced is more
difficult than “normal” driving and requires more
concentration and preparation. When driving in
reduced visibility situations, remember:
• Use the lines on the edge of the road or the
right side of the road as a guide.
• Yellow pavement markings should never be
on your right side. They should always be on
your left side. Yellow is used to divide traffic
going in opposite directions. It marks the left
edge of the road.
• White pavement markings mark the right
edge of the road. They also divide traffic
traveling in the same direction.
When to Use Your Headlights
Knowing when and how to use your headlights
is critical for safe driving. Use your headlights to
help you see when visibility is low. Using your
headlights also helps oncoming traffic see you.
Here are some basic rules for
headlight use:
• When driving, you must turn
on your headlights anytime
there is not enough light to
clearly see at least 1,000
feet in front of your vehicle.
• Nighttime, foggy conditions, and stormy
weather are important times to use
headlights.
• Maryland law requires that you turn on
your headlights when using your windshield
wipers in inclement weather. Inclement
weather is bad weather that might cause
unsafe conditions.
Low Beam or High Beam Headlights
Use low beams when:
• Driving in normal driving situations, like
driving at night on a road with streetlights.
• Driving in fog, rain, snow, etc.
• Entering a tunnel or construction area. (The
law does not always require this, but it makes
it easier for other drivers and construction
workers to see you.)
Use high beams on roads without streetlights so
you can see other vehicles and people. You must:
• Change to low beams at least 500 feet
before reaching vehicles coming toward you.
• Change to low beams when following a
vehicle that is 300 feet or less in front of you.
B. Driving at Night
Driving at night is more risky and more difficult
than daytime driving. It is harder to judge how
far away other vehicles are and how fast they
are moving. You can see only as far as your
headlights allow. There are more risks at night
because you cannot see as well. That makes it
difficult to clearly see where you are going and
what other drivers are doing.
28
Here are some suggestions to follow when
driving at night:
• Make sure you use your headlights and follow
the suggestions for when to use high beams.
• Do not stare into the headlights of traffic
coming toward you in the opposite lane.
This will make it hard for you to see. Instead,
look at the road in front of you, or slightly to
the right of the lane you are traveling in (you
can look at the right edge of your lane or the
edge of the road).
• Increase the distance between you and the
vehicle in front of you. This will help prevent
a crash if the vehicle in front of you needs to
stop quickly.
C. Driving in Fog
There are some unique challenges to driving in
fog that require you to be especially careful.
Below are some guidelines and requirements for
driving when it is foggy:
• Reduce your normal driving speed.
• When you see headlights or another vehicle’s
taillights ahead, reduce your speed even
more. You must be prepared to stop quickly.
• If the fog is so thick that you cannot safely
drive your vehicle, pull completely off the
road to a safe location and turn on your
emergency flashers.
• Use low beam headlights only. Also use fog
lights if you have them.
D. Driving in Inclement Weather
Wet roads can be slippery, reducing traction
and increasing the chances of a crash. Traction
is the grip between your tires and the road that
makes it possible for your vehicle to start, stop,
and change direction. When you have good
traction, you can better control your vehicle.
Risks increase when roads are covered with
snow and/or ice. When you drive in inclement
weather, you must concentrate more and be
better prepared.
When driving in inclement weather, it is
important to think ahead and take action to
stay safe – not just react to what other drivers
do. This will help you avoid a crash. Some
things you can do to stay safe when driving in
inclement weather include:
• Keep a safe distance - the space needed
between you and the car in front of you is
much greater on wet roads than in dry roads.
You need even more space when the road is
covered with snow or ice.
• Reduce your speed so you have more time to
react.
• Make sure your tires have good tread,
based on what the company that made the
tires recommends and the guidelines for your
vehicle.
• Avoid slamming on your brakes because
this may cause your vehicle to skid. If your
vehicle does not have an anti-lock braking
system, pump the brakes to prevent skidding.
• Avoid jerking the steering wheel or quickly
changing speed.
Ramps and bridges freeze
before roads. Also, plowed
roads may refreeze at night or
have icy patches from snow
that melted during the day.
29
• Make sure your windshield wipers are
working well.
• Use your headlights.
Driving on Snow/Ice
There is no such thing as a “completely safe”
speed on ice and snow. In winter weather, every
road may be different depending upon sun,
shade, the amount of salt on the road, and other
conditions. Watch ahead for danger spots. It can
be very hard or impossible to see a thin layer of
ice on blacktop (asphalt) roads. This is sometimes
called black ice. It is caused by ice or snow
melting and re-freezing. It can cause a crash if
you are not aware of the danger.
Four-wheel drive vehicles can also slide on ice
and snow. You might have more control with a
four-wheel drive vehicle but driving on snow or
ice is always dangerous and unpredictable. You
should be very careful at all times.
Suggestions when driving in snow or ice are:
• Slow down; nothing makes it safe for you
to drive on ice or snow-covered roads at
normal speeds.
• Keep your windows and lights clear. Remove
all ice and snow from your vehicle before
driving.
• Start very slowly, then test your brakes gently
to find out how well you can stop.
• Start slowing down long before you come to
an intersection or turn.
• Keep your gas tank and windshield washer
fluid full.
• Use chains, snow tires, or radial tires on
designated snow emergency routes when a
snow emergency is declared.
Emergency Kit Supplies:
You should keep an emergency kit in your car
that contains:
• Flares
• Flashlight and batteries
• First aid kit
• Blanket
• Kitty litter or sand (for traction on snow and ice)
• Small shovel and ice scraper
E. Skidding
Traction between your tires and the road is not
always the same. For example, sand, gravel,
uneven road surfaces, oil slicks/spills, increased
speed, or water on the road decreases traction.
The possibility of skidding or sliding increases
when traction decreases.
If your vehicle begins to skid, it is important to
know what to do to regain control as quickly as
possible. Basic rules include:
• Release the accelerator (gas pedal) or brake
pedal, whichever one you are using, to
regain control of your vehicle.
• Steer in the direction you are skidding.
• Look where you want your vehicle to go.
• Press on your brake pedal only after you
have traction again – when your tires are
gripping the road again.
• Slowly accelerating (pressing on the gas)
may help if your back wheels lose traction.
F. Hydroplaning
Water on the road can cause problems for
drivers. As your vehicle speed increases and the
amount of water on the road increases, you can
30
end up riding on a sheet of water. When this
happens, your tires lose contact with the road.
This is called “hydroplaning.” Hydroplaning can
cause you to lose some or all control of your
vehicle. To prevent hydroplaning, keep your tires
in good condition, and lower your speed on wet
roads. If you start to lose control:
• Take your foot off the gas.
• Do not apply your brakes.
• Keep your vehicle going straight.
• Slow down until you get control back.
G. Highway-Railroad Crossings
Remember, trains cannot stop quickly. So, use
extra caution when driving over railroad crossings.
When you come to railroad tracks:
• Look for other vehicles that may
be stopping before the railroad
crossing. Buses, school buses,
and trucks carrying hazardous
materials must stop before every railroad
crossing.
• Look for a train at any time. Trains can come
from either direction and they may be closer
and traveling faster than they appear.
• The road is closed if gates are down or
warning lights are flashing. Stop and wait
until the gates go up and the warning lights
stop flashing.
• After a train passes, look both ways before
starting over the tracks. Always make sure the
tracks are clear before crossing. Another train
may be coming on another track.
• Never start to cross the tracks unless you can
get completely over before the train comes.
Make sure there is room for your vehicle on
the other side of the tracks before crossing.
H. Work Zone Safety
You will come across work zones on all kinds
of roads where construction, maintenance, or
utility work is happening. Work zones can mean
unexpected conditions, like:
• New traffic patterns
• Temporary traffic control devices (signs,
signals, or pavement markings)
• Narrow lanes
• Lane shifts
• Lane and shoulder closures
• Pavement drop-offs/uneven surfaces
• Reduced sight distance
• Detours
• Slow moving equipment
Orange is the color for work zones. If you see
orange signs when driving, pay close attention
and be prepared for unexpected driving
conditions ahead.
When driving through a work zone, watch for
temporary traffic control devices. These devices
show the safe path through a work zone.
Work zones are set up with your safety in mind.
Follow these safety rules while driving in work
zones:
• Stay alert – make safety your first priority.
• Watch your speed – obey posted speed
limits and be aware that there may be speed
cameras. Speeding fines may be much
higher in work zones.
• Expect the unexpected – work zone
conditions change constantly so be ready
to react.
31
• Minimize distractions – avoid using cell
phones, changing radio stations, and other
distractions.
• Pay close attention – obey work zone signs
and watch for workers, pedestrians, and
bicyclists.
• Respect others – merge carefully, do not
tailgate, and don’t change lanes unless you
have to.
• Obey the flagger’s directions.
I. Traffic Circles (Roundabouts)
Roads that lead to traffic circles have yield signs.
When you come to a traffic circle, you must
always yield to traffic already in the circle. Be
cautious when approaching a traffic circle just
like with other intersections. As you come to a
traffic circle:
• Reduce your speed.
• Keep to the right of the island.
• Watch for and yield
to pedestrians in the
crosswalk.
• Cautiously approach
the yield line and wait
for a gap in traffic.
Watch for vehicles
exiting the traffic circle.
You do not need to wait
to enter the traffic circle if there is no traffic in it.
If the traffic circle has more than one lane, stay in
your lane. When preparing to exit, turn on your
right turn signal and move to the outside lane after
you pass the exit before the one you plan to take.
J. Interstate Driving and Limited
Access Highways
“Limited access highways” are large roads with
no intersections or traffic lights. They have a limited
number of places to enter and exit the road. An
“interstate” is a type of limited access highway that
crosses from one state to another.
For Vehicles Entering
Interstate and other limited access highways
are usually reached by an entrance ramp and
an acceleration lane. You
use the entrance ramp to get
to the highway. You use the
acceleration lane to adjust
your speed to the flow of traffic
already on the interstate. When
entering an interstate or other
limited access highway, you
should not cross the solid lines
that divide the entrance and the
highway. If you are driving slower than the speed
of traffic on the highway, you must drive in the right
lane whenever possible.
For Vehicles Exiting
Move to the right lane well
before you reach the exit you
plan to take. Start slowing
down as soon as you enter
the deceleration lane. The
deceleration lane leads you to
the exit ramp and gives you time
to start slowing down to a safe
speed. Continue slowing to the
posted speed limit for the exit
ramp. If you exit at the wrong place, continue
until you are off the exit ramp. Then look for a
way to re-enter the road. Never stop and back
up on any part of the highway.
32
Stopping
You are not allowed to stop in the lanes where
traffic is moving on an interstate or other
highway. You may stop on the shoulder, but only
when your vehicle is disabled (stops running) or
you have another emergency. If you must stop on
the shoulder, turn on your emergency flashers to
warn other drivers and stay inside your vehicle
if you can. It is very dangerous to stand or walk
along an interstate or other highway because
traffic is traveling at very high speeds.
K. Funeral Processions
When you drive in a funeral procession you must
turn on your headlights and flashing hazard lights
so other vehicles give you the right-of-way.
You may go through a red traffic signal if you
are part of a funeral possession and have your
lights on.
Even if they have a green signal, other vehicles
must yield the right-of-way to vehicles in a funeral
procession. They must yield until all vehicles in the
procession have passed, unless they can safely
proceed without crossing the procession’s path.
L. Slow Moving Vehicles
You may come across slow moving vehicles on
the road. This includes bicycles, horse-drawn
vehicles, and farm vehicles. Some of them may
have the slow-moving sign
(shown) on the back of their
vehicle to warn you they are only
going 25 miles per hour or less.
Here are some tips for driving
near slow-moving vehicles:
• Be constantly aware of any vehicles that
might be traveling at a much slower speed.
• Change your vehicle’s speed and position if
necessary.
• Only pass the slow-moving vehicle when it is
safe to do so.
If you must follow the slower moving vehicle
waiting for a safe time to pass, use your
emergency flashers to help warn others coming
up behind you.
33
SECTION 6:
Dangerous Driving
Behaviors
A. Alcohol, Drugs and Driving
Driving drunk or on drugs is a very serious threat
to everyone’s safety. Alcohol and drugs impair
your ability to drive. This means they make it very
difficult or impossible for you to drive safely.
Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is a
measurement of the amount of alcohol in your
blood. Maryland considers drivers to be driving
under the influence of alcohol when their blood
alcohol concentration is .08 or higher.
Even though Maryland’s limit for drunk driving
is .08, any amount of alcohol can affect your
ability to safely drive a vehicle. Your judgment
and physical coordination may be impaired at
a much lower BAC and could result in criminal
charges. For example, your vision, ability to
perform simple movements, and reaction time
may be affected with just one drink and can
increase the risk of a crash.
It is very difficult to know your own BAC or how
alcohol is affecting your ability to drive. You
cannot simply tell by the number of drinks you
have had because many things can affect how
your body digests alcohol. This includes your
weight, body fat, how long ago you ate, and how
much you ate. How tired you are, your mood,
and medications can also make a difference in
how alcohol affects your ability to drive.
Under 21 – Alcohol Not Allowed
If you are not yet 21 years old, it is against
the law for you to drink any alcohol. If law
enforcement stops you and you have been
drinking, your license will be suspended or
revoked. If that happens, you will not be allowed
to drive. In addition, you could be charged with
violating the alcohol restriction on your license.
Open Alcohol Container
It is against the law to drive with an open
container of alcohol in the passenger area of
the vehicle. An open container is any open can,
bottle, other type of container, or package. A
six-pack of alcohol with open, empty, or missing
bottles/cans can be considered an open
container.
The passenger area of a vehicle includes:
• The driver and passenger seats.
• Any place the driver or passengers can
easily reach from where they are sitting.
Controlled Dangerous Substances
(CDS) – Illegal and Prescription Drugs
Illegal drugs, some prescription medications,
and chemical inhalants can severely affect
your ability to drive safely. They can affect your
alertness, concentration, coordination, and
reaction time. All drugs can make it hard to judge
distances and react to signals and sounds on the
road. Your license can be suspended or revoked
for driving while on controlled dangerous
substances.
It is important to pay close attention to
prescription and over-the-counter drug label
warnings. Look for warnings that tell you not to
drive or use heavy machinery when taking the
medication. If you drive after taking a medication
that tells you not to and it impairs your ability
to drive safely, you could be charged with a
criminal offense.
If you plan to drink,
plan not to drive.
34
Driving with Children
If you are convicted of a drunk or drugged
driving offense with a child in your vehicle, the
judge can double your fine and jail time.
B. Aggressive Driving and Road Rage
Examples of aggressive driving include:
speeding, tailgating, ignoring traffic signals
and devices, making unsafe lane changes, not
yielding the right-of-way, and unsafe or illegal
passing. Crowded roads, unexpected delays,
rushing, road construction, and stress can cause
people to drive aggressively.
You must respect and cooperate with all other
people using the road. You must follow all rules
to keep everyone safe and avoid crashes.
Some tips to reduce the possibility of becoming
involved in an aggressive driving incident are:
• Allow extra time to travel.
• Be patient.
• Be courteous.
• Focus on your driving behavior.
• Always signal your intentions. (Let other
drivers know what you plan to do by using
turn signals, etc.)
• Obey all traffic laws, signs, signals, and
pavement markings.
• Yield the right-of-way.
• Avoid competing with other drivers.
C. Distracted Driving
Concentration is very important and necessary
for safe driving. You should be constantly aware
of the road and the other vehicles around you.
Keep alert and you may be able to avoid a
crash. Constantly check where other vehicles are
in front, behind, and next to you.
“Distracted driving” is when you take your eyes,
hands or especially your mind, away from
driving. Distracted driving causes more crashes
that are reported to the police than anything else.
Any distraction can cause you to miss seeing and
hearing things that could help you avoid a crash.
Many activities contribute to distracted driving.
Some examples include:
• Eating and drinking.
• Adjusting the radio or other source of music.
• Adjusting or programming a GPS.
• Dealing with children and pets.
• Loose objects moving in the vehicle.
• Talking and texting on a cell phone.
• Smoking.
• Putting on makeup.
• Shaving.
• Reading.
• Interacting with others in the vehicle.
A good general rule is to
treat other drivers and road
users like you would like to
be treated.
35
Cell Phones
It is illegal to use a hand-held cell phone,
including texting, while driving. This means you
cannot use your phone while holding it. You
can use your phone for calls while driving if you
are not holding it (hands-free). If you do this,
you should use it as little as possible and do the
following to stay safe:
• Use your cell phone only in emergencies; if
possible, have a passenger make the call.
• If you must make a call, pull safely off the
road, and stop before making the call.
• Let your voicemail answer incoming calls.
• Keep your telephone conversations short.
If you are under 18 years old, you may not use
a cell phone while driving, even hands-free. The
only exception is that you may use it to make a
911 emergency call.
D. Drowsy Driving
Not getting enough sleep can also cause
unsafe driving. Sleepiness slows reaction time,
decreases awareness, and impairs judgment,
just like drugs or alcohol. This can significantly
increase your chances of being involved in a
crash.
Some drivers have a higher risk of feeling
sleepy (drowsy). Examples include people
who drive many miles each day, people with
sleep disorders, and people taking certain
medications.
It is important to be aware of signs that you are
drowsy and take action so you do not cause a
crash. Below is a list of common “danger signs”
and a good rule to deal with drowsy driving.
Danger Signs for Drowsy Drivers
The following may mean you are drowsy and
should take action to stay safe:
• Your eyes close or go out of focus.
• You have trouble keeping your head up.
• You can’t stop yawning.
• You have wandering, disconnected thoughts.
• You don’t remember driving the last few
miles.
• You missed your exit.
• You keep driving out of your lane.
• You keep changing your speed.
If you become tired or sleepy
while driving, it is best to rest
or change drivers. Being tired
dulls your mind and slows
down your reactions, making
driving very dangerous.
36
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Each year, tens of thousands of people
are arrested on Maryland’s roads for
drunk or drugged driving. Alcohol and
drugs affect your ability to drive as well
as you usually do, or in many cases,
your ability to drive at all.
Before you go out, be the MAKE A
PLAN Driver and make a plan to get
home safely, and designate a sober
driver. Being arrested for impaired
driving has serious consequences
including big fines, possible jail time,
and thousands of dollars in court
costs. Worst of all, impaired driving
often results in serious injury or death,
both of which can be avoided by
making good decisions.
One-third of fatal crashes are caused
by distracted driving. Cell phone use is
one of the leading causes of
distracted driving. However, other
deadly distractions that take your
attention from driving include eating,
applying makeup, dealing with
children, and changing radio stations.
Be the FOCUSED Driver who avoids
distractions and sticks to the task at
hand – driving.
For more information, visit:
ZeroDeathsMD.gov
37
after you see or hear an emergency vehicle
approaching that is using its signals, you must:
• Move as close as possible to the edge of the
road.
• Stay out of intersections, and
• Remain stopped until the emergency vehicle
has passed.
If you are going in the same direction as an
emergency vehicle using its signals, you may not
pass it unless it stops or a police officer tells you
to pass it.
If you approaching an emergency vehicle, tow
truck, or other service vehicle that is stopped
on the road, you must move to a lane that is
not immediately adjacent to (right next to) the
stopped vehicle. If it is not possible to move
over, you must slow down to a safe speed and
prepare to stop if necessary.
C. Large Trucks and Buses
Watch for turning trucks. Trucks make wide turns
at intersections and need more space than cars.
When making a right turn, large trucks will often
move left before
making the turn. You
may think they are
changing lanes and try
to pass on their right.
Passing any truck on
the right can be risky.
Wait to see whether
the truck is planning to
turn before passing.
If a truck is stopped
at or approaching an
SECTION 7:
Sharing the Road
A. Pedestrian Right-of-Way
Pedestrians have the right-of-way at street
crossings but must obey traffic control signals.
When there is no traffic signal, you must stop for
pedestrians in a marked or unmarked crosswalk.
Drivers should be especially alert for pedestrians
who are deaf, blind or mobility impaired. They
may have difficulty seeing or hearing traffic and
may need extra time to cross the road.
Crossing at Crosswalks
A crosswalk is where pedestrians can cross a
road and drivers must stop to
let them cross. Some crosswalks
are marked on the pavement,
but others are not. Most
intersections have a crosswalk
even if it is not marked.
Some basic rules:
• When there is a traffic signal, drivers and
pedestrians must obey it.
• You may not pass any vehicle that is stopped
at a crosswalk.
• You must yield to pedestrians when turning
on a green signal.
• You must yield to pedestrians when turning
on a red signal is permitted after stopping.
B. Emergency Vehicles
Emergency vehicles, like police cars, ambulances,
and fire engines, have the right-of-way when
using their sirens and flashing lights. Immediately
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Each year, tens of thousands of people
are arrested on Maryland’s roads for
drunk or drugged driving. Alcohol and
drugs affect your ability to drive as well
as you usually do, or in many cases,
your ability to drive at all.
Before you go out, be the MAKE A
PLAN Driver and make a plan to get
home safely, and designate a sober
driver. Being arrested for impaired
driving has serious consequences
including big fines, possible jail time,
and thousands of dollars in court
costs. Worst of all, impaired driving
often results in serious injury or death,
both of which can be avoided by
making good decisions.
One-third of fatal crashes are caused
by distracted driving. Cell phone use is
one of the leading causes of
distracted driving. However, other
deadly distractions that take your
attention from driving include eating,
applying makeup, dealing with
children, and changing radio stations.
Be the FOCUSED Driver who avoids
distractions and sticks to the task at
hand – driving.
For more information, visit:
ZeroDeathsMD.gov
38
directly behind them.The truck or bus driver
cannot see your car back there. If the truck
or bus suddenly slows down or stops, you
have no place to go.
• Front No-Zones:
Do not move in front of a truck or bus too soon
after passing it. Truck and bus drivers need
almost twice as much time and room to stop
as cars. Look for both
of the bus or truck’s
headlights in your rear-
view mirror before you
pull in front, and then
do not slow down.
• Backing Up No-
Zones: Never cross
behind a truck that is
backing up. Hundreds
of people are killed
or injured each year
by ignoring trucks that
are backing up. Truck
drivers do not have
a rear-view mirror
and may not see you
cutting in behind them.
D. School Buses
Drivers must stop for school buses..
If a school bus has stopped on the road with its
flashing red lights on, as you approach it you
must:
• Stop at least 20 feet from the back of the
school bus, if you are behind it.
• Stop at least 20 feet from the front of the
school bus, if you are in front of it.
intersection, never try to cut in along their right
side as the truck driver begins their turn. You
could find yourself caught between the turning
truck and the curb.
When passing a truck going in the same
direction, pass quickly so you can continue to see
what is happening around you. Then, move back
into the lane with the truck only when you can see
both of its headlights in your rear-view mirror.
Many intersections are marked with stop lines.
If you stop past the stop line, your vehicle could
be in the way of trucks turning from a cross street.
Never cut in front of a truck. Fully loaded trucks
can weigh more than 80,000 pounds and take
the length of a football field to stop. Most cars
weigh only 2,000 pounds.
No-Zones
There are four large “blind spots” around trucks
where other vehicles “disappear” from view. That
means the truck driver cannot see you. These
blind spots are called “no zones.”
• Side No-Zones: Trucks and buses have
blind spots on both sides. If you cannot see
the driver’s face in their side-view mirror, they
cannot see you. If the truck changes lanes, you
could be in trouble if you are in its blind spot.
The right-side blind spot runs the length of the
truck’s trailer and extends out three lanes.
• Rear No-Zones:
Avoid tailgating (driving too close behind
the vehicle in front of you). Unlike cars,
trucks and buses have huge no zones
NO-ZONES
10' to 20'
24'
200'
50'
Remember, if you cannot see
a truck’s mirrors, the truck
driver cannot see you!
39
You may not start moving again until the school
bus starts moving or turns off its flashing red lights.
If you are on a multiple lane road divided by a
physical barrier, do not stop if the bus is on the
other side of the barrier.
E. Motorcycles
Motorcyclists have the same rights and privileges
as any other driver on the road. But a motorcyclist
is six times more likely than a car driver to be hurt
in a crash. Motorcycles are smaller than cars and
trucks, so it can be harder to judge their speed
and distance.
• Yield right-of-way to an oncoming
motorcycle when turning left. If you do
not yield the right-of-way to a motorcyclist,
you could get a citation with significant
penalties and you could cause a serious
injury. Drivers are at fault in over half of car
crashes with motorcycles.
• Look twice before changing lanes or
merging into traffic. Use your mirrors
and look over your shoulder to be sure it
is safe before merging or changing lanes.
Motorcycles can be hidden in your blind
spot or missed in a quick look because they
are smaller.
• Do not share a lane with a motorcycle.
Motorcyclists often move around in a traffic
lane to avoid road hazards like potholes or
oil spills, because of wind, and to be seen by
others. Motorcyclists are allowed to use the
whole lane.
• Do not “tailgate” (drive too close) to a
motorcycle. Leave at least a 3 to 4-second
following distance between your vehicle and
the motorcycle in front of you. Motorcycles
may need to slow down for road hazards
like gravel, wet roads, or railroad crossings
that don’t affect cars the same way.
Motorcyclists often reduce speed in ways
that do not cause their brake lights to come
on. So, be alert and leave plenty of space
around motorcycles.
• Leave plenty of space between your
vehicle and the motorcycle when
passing. Wind gusts and drafts from a
passing vehicle can affect a motorcycle.
After passing a rider, make sure you can see
the motorcycle’s headlight in your rear-view
mirror before moving back into the lane. If a
motorcyclist is passing you, simply maintain
your speed and allow them to complete
their passing.
• Be careful when driving near a group
of motorcyclists. Motorcyclists participate
in organized rides that can involve many
motorcycles. You need good communication
and patience to drive around these groups.
If you need to change lanes or reach an exit,
use your turn signal early and wait for the
riders in the group to make room for you. Only
merge in between groups or riders when there
is enough space to do so safely. If it is a small
group, it may be easier to slow down and let
the group pass before changing lanes.
Please review the Motorcycle Operator Manual
if you want a motorcycle license. You can find it
on MVA’s website.
F. Bicycles
Bicycles are vehicles, according to Maryland law.
Bicyclists are allowed to use the road and must
obey all traffic signals. But bicyclists are harder to
see, quieter, and don’t have a protective barrier
40
around them like a motor vehicle. You must drive
carefully near bicyclists – even a little mistake can
result in serious injury or death.
Expect Bicyclists on the Road
Expect to find bicyclists:
• On all types of roads (except interstate
highways, and bridges and tunnels with tolls).
• At intersections and traffic circles.
• In all kinds of weather.
• At all times of the day and night.
Bicyclists may ride out in the travel lane (where
motor vehicles are) for their own safety. They
may do this because the road is narrow, or
to avoid obstacles or pavement hazards. On
roads without shoulders, or when cars are
parked along the right side, a bicyclist is often
safest riding in the center of the travel lane. In
Maryland, a bicyclist may use the full lane even
while traveling significantly below the speed of
traffic (if the lane is too narrow for a motor vehicle
to safely pass the bicycle while it is in the lane).
Before opening a car door, check for bicyclists
who may be approaching from behind.
Right-of-Way
Bicyclists have the right-of-way when a motor
vehicle is making a turn, so you must yield
to bicyclists.
When you enter or cross a bike lane or
shoulder, you must yield the right-of-way to
bicyclists riding in them.
Bicycles have the same right of way as
pedestrians in a crosswalk. Failing to yield right
of way to a bicycle which results in a crash
carries fines and or prison time and points on
your driving record.
Following a Bicyclist
As you approach a bicyclist, slow down. Do not
honk your horn. Bicyclists can usually hear an
approaching vehicle and loud noises can startle
them, causing a crash.
Bicycles do not have turn signals so bicyclists use
hand and arm signals to tell you what they plan
to do.
Do not follow a bicycle too closely. Remember
that small holes, glass, and other hazards can be
especially dangerous to bicyclists. Bicycles can
stop and move quickly so a bicyclist may swerve
or change speed to avoid a road hazard that a
motor vehicle driver cannot see.
Pass with Care - Give Bikes at Least
3 Feet
Pass a bicyclist like you would any slow-moving
vehicle. Be prepared to slow down and wait
until oncoming traffic is clear. Then leave at least
3 feet between your vehicle and the bicycle
when passing. Leave this much room when
passing a bicycle in a bike lane, on the shoulder,
or in the same lane as your car. Make sure you
see the bicycle in your rear-view mirror before
returning to your lane.
Be Careful at Intersections, Bridges and
Driveways
Always assume that bicyclists are going straight
through an intersection unless they signal that they
are turning. Yield to bicycles just as you would
to any other vehicle. Bicyclists often ride on
sidewalks and trails, so look both ways before
crossing a sidewalk or trail.
Remember that a bicycle may come from an
unexpected direction. And experienced bicyclists
often ride very fast (as fast as 35 mph!) and may
be closer than you think.
41
• Never make a right turn from a through
lane immediately after passing a bike on a
shoulder or bike lane. A through lane is a
lane that continues straight.
• Try to make sure there are no bicycles on
your right or in your right blind spot when you
turn right.
• Before starting a right turn, move as far to
the right as possible within the bike lane,
shoulder, or right turn lane.
• When turning, yield to bicycles like you do
with any other vehicle going straight. Do not
turn left immediately in front of a bicycle.
• Look closely for bicycles before you move
right to pass a vehicle that is turning left.
• When a road narrows for a bridge, parked
cars, or other obstructions on the right,
be prepared for a bicyclist riding on the
shoulder to merge left into the travel lane.
Driving at Night
If you see a dim reflective object at night do
not assume it is off the road. It could be a
bicycle in a travel lane. Bicyclists sometimes
avoid shoulders at night when there are no cars
because tree branches, potholes, debris, and
even the edge of the pavement are difficult to
see. Your headlights may warn the bicyclist to
safely move into the shoulder for you to pass,
but it takes longer at night. When approaching a
bicycle, use your low beam headlights.
Watch for Children
Children on bicycles are sometimes
unpredictable so expect the unexpected.
Remember they are small and may be hard to
see. Young bicyclists are most likely to change
direction without warning. Be aware of bicyclists
entering the road from driveways or near parked
cars. Obey speed limits in school zones and
residential areas so you have time to see, and
drive safely around, young bicyclists.
G. Mopeds and Scooters
Drivers of mopeds and motor scooters must follow
all traffic laws. Drivers of cars and trucks must
always watch for mopeds and scooters because
their size makes them very difficult to see.
Mopeds and scooters may be ridden on any
road with a posted maximum speed limit of 50
miles per hour or less. They may ride:
• Side-by-side or alone.
• On the road or on the shoulder.
Mopeds and scooters should ride as close to the
right side of the road as they safely can.
Be especially careful around mopeds and
scooters at intersections when they may be
turning or going straight. Also be careful on
narrow roads with little room for passing.
H. Understanding Vehicle Technologies
“Advanced Driver Assistance Systems” (ADAS)
vehicle technologies are features that make
driving safer. ADAS technologies help save lives
and prevent injuries. When used properly, they
prevent 40% of crashes.
ADAS technology is designed to assist you with
driving tasks like:
• Staying in your lane.
• Reducing blind spots.
• Keeping a safe distance from other vehicles.
• Avoiding crashes.
• Parking.
42
Many vehicles use sensors and cameras to
identify possible dangers. Examples of this
type of technology are Automatic Emergency
Braking, Lane Keeping Assistance, and Blind
Spot Warning.
Do 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 checking traffic using your vehicle’s
mirrors and cameras.
Be aware that:
• The technology has limitations and may not
work properly in rain, snow, fog, on hills, and
around curves.
• The technology responds differently from
one type of vehicle to another – even the
dashboard icons may differ.
• There are many different names for the
technology, and the names do not always
describe what the technology does.
Be familiar with the
technologies on any vehicle
you are about to drive
and use them safely and
effectively.
Always:
• Keep your vehicle sensors clean and
damage free.
• Keep the software technology up-to-
date and follow the manufacturer’s
recommendations.
• Be familiar with the technologies on any
vehicle you are about to drive and use
them safely and effectively. Learn how by
reviewing your vehicle manual or asking your
car dealership.
Above all, always stay focused when driving
and stay in control of your vehicle.
43
SECTION 8:
Crashes and Traffic Stops
A. Crashes
Whenever you are in a crash, put on your
emergency flashers or flares to warn other drivers.
If you are involved in a crash where
someone has been injured, including
a pedestrian or bicyclist, you must
remain at the scene and:
• Call 911 immediately to get help from police,
fire, and ambulance.
• Report the number of people involved, the
type of injury, and the location of the crash.
• Do not move the vehicles.
If you are convicted of leaving the
scene of a crash that results in a
serious injury, you will face severe
penalties:
• Your license will be revoked (you will not be
allowed to drive).
• You could go to prison for up to 5 years and
a be fined up to $5,000.
• Leaving the scene of a crash where someone
dies is a felony. You could go to prison for up
to 10 years and a be fined up to $10,000.
If there are no injuries, but your vehicle
cannot move:
• Call 911 immediately, give the location of the
crash, and report that there are no injuries but
you need police assistance.
• Be patient and do
not try to cross the
road or stop traffic.
Make sure you stay
away from traffic.
If there are no injuries and your vehicle
can move:
• Move your vehicle off the road as close as
possible to where the crash occurred. This
will help keep you and others safe, and
prevent traffic backups.
• Get important information from the other
driver(s) involved in the crash. Give the other
driver(s) the same information. This includes:
name, address, phone number, license plate
number and state, driver’s license number,
vehicle make and model, and insurance
information.
• Ask witnesses for their names, addresses and
phone numbers.
• Remember the location of the crash, date and
time, number of vehicles involved, weather
conditions, and road conditions. Write this
information down, if you can.
• Remember any damages to the vehicles.
Write this information down and take
pictures, if you can.
• Write down the facts of how the crash
happened.
Remember, you must always call the
police when:
• Someone has been injured.
• A vehicle cannot be moved.
• A driver appears to be under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
44
• A driver does not have a license.
• A driver tries to leave the scene without
giving you insurance and other important
information.
• Public property has been damaged.
If you strike an unattended vehicle or
other unattended property, you are
required to:
• Stop your vehicle as close as possible to
where the crash occurred, without blocking
traffic more than necessary.
• Try to find the owner of the vehicle or
property to tell them what happened and
provide your information.
• If you cannot find the owner of the vehicle
or property, leave them a note about what
happened with your contact information.
Leave the note where they can easily find it.
If you hit and injure a domestic animal with your
vehicle, you must immediately call the police.
Dogs, cats, horses, and cows are examples of
domestic animals.
B. Roadside Emergencies
Every roadside emergency is different so always
use caution and common sense, whether it is a
flat tire, taking care of a passenger, or something
else.
When there is a roadside emergency:
• Assess the situation.
• Use good judgment in deciding how to
respond.
• Watch for other vehicles, because roadside
emergencies can change in an instant.
Find a Safe Place
Every year, people are injured or killed on
the side of the road while waiting for vehicle
assistance. If your vehicle becomes disabled,
do your best to move it to the shoulder. If you
can reach an off-ramp or parking lot, consider
doing that even if it means driving on a flat tire
or damaging a rim. The further you can be from
traffic, the safer you will be. Never stop or park
in the triangular shaped painted zones where a
ramp exits the road.
If you can remain in your vehicle:
If you can remain in your vehicle, stay buckled
and face forward. Vehicles have several safety
features that will help protect you and your
passengers if another vehicle hits your vehicle.
If you cannot remain in your vehicle:
If it is not safe or possible to remain in your
vehicle, watch what is happening around you
and pick the safest time for everyone to get
out. Do not stand near the vehicle. Instead,
move quickly away from the road. Get behind
an embankment, traffic barrier, or guard-rail. If
possible, move to higher ground. Face oncoming
traffic and remain alert in case a vehicle veers
into your path.
C. Traffic Stops
Law enforcement officers issue written traffic
citations (tickets) to people who are charged
with violating (breaking) the Maryland Motor
Vehicle Law. You must follow the officer’s
directions if you are stopped or you may be
arrested.
45
If a law enforcement officer stops you:
• Pull off to the side of the road as far away
from traffic as possible. Turn on your flashers.
• Turn off your engine and radio.
• Roll down your window so you can
communicate with the officer.
• Stay in your vehicle and keep your seat belt
fastened.
• Keep your hands in plain view – on the
steering wheel is best. 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.
D. Move Over Law
In Maryland, you must move over when
approaching any vehicles while they are
stopped, standing, or parked on a road with
its lights flashing. If it is not safe or possible to
move over, you must slow down to a safe speed.
Consider the weather, road conditions, traffic,
and pedestrians when deciding a safe speed.
Violating this law is a misdemeanor with the
following penalties:
• A $110 fine and one point on your license.
The MVA uses points to track violations and
issue penalties.
• A $150 fine and three points if the violation
causes a crash.
• A $750 fine and three points if there is a
death or serious injury.
Points lead to your license being suspended or
revoked.
46
Caucasian male Latin Male Latin female Asian female
be the
share
t h e r o a d
drıver
Pedestrian and bicyclist safety affects
everyone in Maryland. Many
unnecessary injuries and deaths occur
because drivers or pedestrians are
drunk, unfamiliar with vehicle laws, or
not paying attention. Roads should be
safe places for everyone and it’s
important that we all do our part.
That also includes bicyclists. Most
people don’t know that bicycles are
considered vehicles on Maryland’s
roads, just like cars or trucks. That
means drivers and bicyclists must learn
to share the road 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.
When there is a crash involving a car
or truck and a motorcycle, the
motorcyclist almost always loses.
Because motorcycle riders are not
protected by the vehicle like people in
a car or truck, motorcyclists are
injured in nearly 75 percent of crashes.
Drivers and riders have the
responsibility to share the road safely.
When there is a crash involving a car
and a motorcycle, the car driver is at
fault more than half of the time. Be the
LOOK TWICE Driver, always check two
or more times before merging,
changing lanes, and pulling into traffic.
Caucasian male Latin Male Latin female Asian female
be the
look twıce
drıver
For more information, visit:
ZeroDeathsMD.gov
47
SECTION9:
Other Restrictions,
Violations and Penalties
A. Restrictions
Remember that driving is a privilege, not a right.
The MVA has the authority to impose restrictions
on your license to make sure you drive safely.
A driving restriction is a limitation of your driving
privileges. Restrictions may be based on the type
of license you have or be imposed because
you violated (broke) motor vehicle laws. Driving
a motor vehicle in violation of restriction(s) is
a serious offense. You could lose your driving
privileges.
The following driving restrictions apply to
graduated license holders under 18 years old:
Seat Belt Restriction
You must always use a safety belt if you have
a Provisional License. All passengers must use
safety belts or child safety seats.
Passenger Restriction
If you have a Provisional License and are under
the age of 18, you may not drive unsupervised
with passengers under the age of 18 for the
first 151 days unless they are immediate family
members. You can drive with a passenger under
age 18 who is not related to you if you have a
qualified supervising driver with you. Immediate
family members can be your spouse, daughter,
son, stepdaughter, stepson, sister, brother,
stepsister, stepbrother, or any relative who lives at
your address. See Section 10.B. for information
about who qualifies as a supervising driver.
Nighttime Restriction
If you have a Provisional License, you are
allowed to drive unsupervised between 12:00
midnight and 5:00 a.m., ONLY if you are:
• Driving to, from, or during your job.
• Driving to or from an organized volunteer
program.
• Driving to or from an official school activity.
• Driving to or from an athletic event or related
training session you are participating in.
Wireless Device Restriction
If you have a Provisional License or a
Learner’s Permit, you may not use any wireless
communication device (including a hands-free
phone) while driving. The only exception is a 911
emergency call.
B. Drug and Alcohol Test – Implied
Consent
In Maryland, if you drive or attempt to drive
a motor vehicle on a road or private property
used by the public, you consent (agree) to take
a drug or alcohol test if a law enforcement
officer asks you to. These tests measure the
amount of alcohol or drugs in your body.
If a police officer has reason to believe that you
are driving while impaired by drugs, alcohol, or
a controlled substance, they may have a drug
recognition expert request that you submit to
a blood test. Your license will be suspended
if your blood alcohol concentration is .08
Caucasian male Latin Male Latin female Asian female
be the
share
t h e r o a d
drıver
Pedestrian and bicyclist safety affects
everyone in Maryland. Many
unnecessary injuries and deaths occur
because drivers or pedestrians are
drunk, unfamiliar with vehicle laws, or
not paying attention. Roads should be
safe places for everyone and it’s
important that we all do our part.
That also includes bicyclists. Most
people don’t know that bicycles are
considered vehicles on Maryland’s
roads, just like cars or trucks. That
means drivers and bicyclists must learn
to share the road 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.
When there is a crash involving a car
or truck and a motorcycle, the
motorcyclist almost always loses.
Because motorcycle riders are not
protected by the vehicle like people in
a car or truck, motorcyclists are
injured in nearly 75 percent of crashes.
Drivers and riders have the
responsibility to share the road safely.
When there is a crash involving a car
and a motorcycle, the car driver is at
fault more than half of the time. Be the
LOOK TWICE Driver, always check two
or more times before merging,
changing lanes, and pulling into traffic.
Caucasian male Latin Male Latin female Asian female
be the
look twıce
drıver
For more information, visit:
ZeroDeathsMD.gov
48
percent or higher. The MVA will also suspend
your license if you are impaired with drugs in
your system.
If a police officer submits a certified statement
that you refused a test, the MVA will suspend
your license.
C. Obtaining a False or Forged
Identification Card, Driver’s License
or Learner’s Instructional Permit
If you try to get a fake identification card,
Learner’s Instructional Permit or driver’s license,
you may be fined and/or sent to prison under
federal and state Law.
It is against the law to lie about your age
to purchase, possess, or acquire alcohol. In
addition to the penalties described above, your
driver’s license may be suspended.
D. Administrative Actions
The MVA may suspend, revoke, refuse, or cancel
your license if you violate motor vehicle laws. If
this happens, the MVA will mail you a notice to
inform you about:
• The action they plan to take.
• The reason the action is being taken.
• The steps you may take to have the action
changed or stopped.
In most cases, you can request an administrative
hearing to explain why the administrative action
should not occur.
If your license is suspended, revoked, refused,
or cancelled, you must give your license to the
MVA. Without a license, you will not be allowed
to drive. Suspension or revocation periods begin
when the MVA receives your license.
Suspension of Driver’s License
If your license is suspended, you temporarily
lose the privilege of driving a motor vehicle. In
some cases, the MVA may decide to provide
a restricted driver’s license. A restricted license
allows the you to only drive for a specific
purpose, like getting to and from work and
school.
Revocation of Driver’s License
The revocation of a Maryland driver’s license is
more severe than a suspension.
If your license is revoked, you may not drive a
motor vehicle until the MVA determines that you
can safely drive again. If your driver’s license
is revoked, there is a minimum waiting period
before you can request that the MVA reinstate it
(meaning you get it back). The MVA can deny
your request.
Cancellation of Driver’s License
Cancellation of a driver’s license is more severe
than a suspension or revocation. It means your
driving privilege is terminated (ended) and not
reinstated. The MVA may cancel your driver’s
license if they determine that:
• You should not have been given a license.
• You did not provide required or correct
information on your license application.
• You committed fraud when you applied for
or obtained your license.
If you are younger than 18, your parent or legal
guardian can request that the MVA cancel your
driver’s license (see Section 2.F.).
49
E. Penalties
If you have a conviction or “Probation before
Judgment” (PBJ) for a moving violation(s) while
holding a Provisional License:
• You will have to complete a driver
improvement program, and/or
• Your driver’s license will be suspended or
revoked. After the suspension or revocations
ends, an employment and education only
restriction will be placed on your driver’s
license.
Penalties for Minors
If you are under 18 years old with a Provisional
License and you are convicted of a moving
violation or granted probation before judgment,
the following penalties apply:
• The FIRST offense requires you to complete a
driver improvement program.
• A SECOND offense will result in a 30-day
suspension of your driver’s license followed
by a 90-day restriction that limits your driving
to employment and educational purposes
only.
• A THIRD offense will result in a 180-
day suspension of your license, require
attendance at a driver improvement program
for young drivers, and an employment and
education only restriction for 180 days.
• A FOURTH or MORE offenses will result in
your license being revoked. You must pass all
licensing tests to get your license back.
Penalties for Adults
If you are 18 years of age or older and have
a Provisional License and you are convicted a
moving violation or granted a probation before
judgment, the following penalties apply:
• The FIRST offense requires you to complete a
driver improvement program.
• A SECOND offense will result in a 30-day
suspension of your license.
• A THIRD or MORE offenses will result in up
to a 180-day suspension or revocation of
your license.
These penalties will be imposed IN ADDITION
to any penalties that result from conviction(s) in
court. Also, after each conviction or probation
before judgment for a moving violation, you
will be required to begin a new 18-month
conviction-free period before you can get your
license back.
F. Use of Disability Parking Spaces,
License Plates and Placards
You can receive big fines if you illegally use
disability parking spaces, disability license plates,
and disability 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 MVA and the person who
qualified for the plate or placard is either the
driver or a passenger 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).
50
• Parking on any part of an access aisle next to
a disability parking space (even if you have
a disability license plate or placard). An
access aisle is the area people in
wheelchairs or other mobility devices use to
get in and out of their vehicle.
• Using a disability placard
after its expiration date.
• Using a disability license plate
or placard without the person
with the disability present and
without proper identification.
• Any fraud or misrepresentation when applying
for a disability license plate or placard.
Go to the MVA website for more information
about disability parking.
51
SECTION 10:
Other Important
Information
A. Medical Conditions to Report to MVA
If you have one or more of the medical conditions
listed below, you must notify the MVA when you
apply for or renew your driver’s license. If the
condition is diagnosed after you receive your
license, notify the MVA when it is diagnosed.
MVA’s Driver Wellness and Safety Division and/
or Medical Advisory Board must approve you for
a license if you have one of these conditions that
could affect your ability to drive:
• Diabetes that has caused a low blood sugar
episode requiring assistance from another
person in the past 6 months.
• Epilepsy or seizures.
• A heart condition that has caused a loss of
consciousness in the past 6 months.
• Stroke.
• A condition that causes you to have dizzy
spells, fainting, or blackouts.
• Sleep apnea or narcolepsy.
• A history of traumatic brain injury (TBI).
• A condition that causes weakness, shaking,
or numbness in your arms, hands, legs, or feet
that may affect your ability to drive.
• A hand, arm, foot, or leg that is absent,
amputated, or has a loss of function that may
affect your ability to drive.
• An eye problem that prevents a corrected
minimum visual acuity of 20/70 in at least
one eye or binocular field of vision of at least
110 degrees.
• Alcohol use problem.
• Drug use problem.
• A mental health condition that may affect
your ability to drive.
• Schizophrenia.
• Dementia.
B. Supervising Driver – Requirements
and Responsibilities
If you have a Maryland Learner’s Permit
you may drive only the vehicles or class of
vehicles specified on your Learner’s Permit.
You must have a supervising driver with you. A
supervising driver is:
• At least 21 years old.
• Currently licensed for at least three years in
Maryland or another state to drive the same
class of vehicles that you are driving.
• Seated beside you, unless the vehicle is a
motorcycle.
C. Organ Donor
Maryland residents can give the gift of life and
health to someone else by donating organs or
tissues after death.
• Anyone 18 years old or older may be an
organ donor.
• Minors at least 16 years old may be organ
donors if a parent or guardian consents
(agrees) in writing.
Look for this statement on your license application
or renewal notice:
“Please check, if upon your death, you desire
to help others by becoming an organ donor.
By checking “YES,” you authorize all necessary
personal information to be forwarded to the
Maryland Department of Health and maintained
52
in the Maryland Organ Donor Registry.” If you
agree, you can choose to have your license
indicate that you are an organ donor. More
information on the organ donor program may be
found on the MVA website.
D. Register to Vote
The National Voter Registration Act of 1993,
often called “Motor Voter,” is a federal law. It
requires the MVA to allow eligible customers
to apply to register to vote, or update voting
information, when they get a driver’s license or
photo identification (ID) card.
E. Insurance Requirements
All motor vehicles registered in Maryland must be
insured by a company licensed in Maryland. If
you own a motor vehicle you must have it insured
for personal injury and property damage liability
in amounts required by law. See the MVA website
for information about these amounts.
You must always have a valid insurance
identification card with you when driving a motor
vehicle. This card may be in electronic format. If
a law enforcement officer asks for your insurance
card, you must show it to them. If you refuse, you
could be fined.
F. Seat Belt Law
By law, the driver and all passengers of
a motor vehicle must wear a safety belt
or be buckled in a child safety seat.
G. Child Safety Seats
All children under age 8 must ride in a child
safety seat, unless the child is 4’9” or taller.
Children younger than 2 must ride in a rear-
facing child safety seat that meets federal
guidelines until they reach the height or weight
specified by the manufacturer. You must follow
all instructions provided by the manufacturer of
your child safety seat and vehicle.
Child safety seats include car seats, booster seats
and other federally approved child safety devices.
If you are unable to purchase or obtain a child
safety seat, you may contact Kids In Safety Seats
(KISS) at the Maryland Department of Health
at 800-370-SEAT. KISS coordinates programs
in various areas of the State that rent car seats
or booster seats at a low cost to families who
cannot afford to purchase them. Seats may not be
available at all locations all the time.
H. Air Bags
Air bags are important safety devices that protect
you in crashes. For the best protection:
• Use them with your vehicle’s lap and
shoulder belt.
• Sit as far back from the steering wheel as
possible. Try to keep 10-12 inches between
the steering wheel and your chest.
• Pregnant women should place the lap part
of the seat belt under the abdomen as low
as possible on the hips and across the upper
thighs. They should place the shoulder belt
over the rounding of the belly.
• Children in a rear-facing car seat should
never ride in the front seat of a vehicle with a
passenger air bag.
• Children under age 13 should ride buckled
up in a rear seat in a child safety seat or with
a seat belt.
I. Braking with Anti-lock Braking
System (ABS)
Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS) help prevent
your wheels from locking up so you can control
your car. Whenever your vehicle’s computer
53
detects that one or more wheels are locking,
ABS begins to pump the brakes much faster so
they don’t lock. When the ABS engages, you
may hear a rumble from the brakes and the brake
pedal will vibrate under your foot. Check your
vehicle owner’s manual for more information
about anti-lock braking systems.
J. Wearing of Headsets, Earphones and
Earplugs Prohibited
You may not drive with earplugs, headsets, or
earphones in both ears. Hearing aid devices are
allowed.
K. Parallel Parking
Parallel parking is no longer required when you
take your driving test. However, you will learn
about it in the MVA driving education course.
The same skills needed for parallel parking are
covered when you perform a “reverse two-point
turn” during the driving course test you take to get
your license. This includes: visual skills, judgment
of space, use of mirrors and turn signals, steering,
braking, and acceleration control.
L. Pull-In Parking, Back-In Parking, and
Three-Point Turn
You must be able to successfully perform pull-in
parking, back-in parking, and a three-point turn
during your driving test. The parking is done in a
10’ by 20’ space during the test, and the turn in
a 16’ by 20’ space. These moves demonstrate
how well you judge space, use mirrors and turn
signals, steer, brake, and control your vehicle
when accelerating. They also test your visual,
backing, and general driving skills.
M. Rules and Tips for Bicyclists
Like motor vehicle drivers, bicyclists have both
rights and responsibilities to safely use the road.
Do your part by being a safe and respectful
bicyclist.
Obey the Rules of the Road: Ride straight and
single file in a predictable manner. Plan ahead
and allow time to get around road hazards and
to deal with traffic and open car doors. Yield to
pedestrians and obey all traffic signals and signs.
Ride with Traffic: Always ride on the right
side. Be careful when passing pedestrians and
bicycles on the right. When you come to an
intersection, use the appropriate lane for the
direction you are going (left, straight, right).
Signal All Turns: Look back before you change
lanes or turn. Use your turn signals to let others
know what you plan to do:
Make Left Hand Turns Safely:
• You may turn left like motor vehicles do by
moving to the left side of the travel lane (or
left turn lane), or
• Cross like a pedestrian by stopping, getting
off your bicycle, and walking across in a
crosswalk.
Remember: it is against the
law to drive without vehicle
insurance! If you do not keep
insurance on all vehicles, you
will be fined up to $2,500 per
vehicle each year.
54
Be Prepared for Slick Road Conditions:
When braking in the rain or snow, allow extra
distance to stop and look for pavement markings
and utility covers, which may be slippery.
Be Visible - Use Lights at Night: When
riding at night, Maryland State Law requires a
white headlight on the front of your bicycle, and
a red reflector on the back. They must be visible
from at least 600 feet away. In addition, it is
recommended that you wear bright clothing in the
daytime and reflective clothing for night riding.
Bicycle Equipment:
Helmets are required for anyone under age
16 riding on a bike. This includes passengers
that are not steering the bike. Helmets are also
strongly recommended for people of all ages.
By law, all bicycles must have:
• Brakes that can stop the bicycle within 15 feet
when it is going 10 miles per hour on dry,
level, clean pavement.
• A white beam headlight that can be seen
500 feet away and a red rear reflector that
can be seen 600 feet away, when ridden at
night or during low-light conditions.
• A safety seat or trailer, firmly attached to the
bicycle, if traveling with a small child.
• A bicycle basket, rack, or bag when carrying
small things so both hands can be kept on the
handlebars.
N. Electric Low Speed Vehicles
(Definitions)
Electric Bicycles
• Are operated by human power with the
assistance of an electric motor.
• Have fully operable pedals.
• Have two or three wheels.
• Have an electric motor with a rating of 750
watts or less.
Types of Electric Bicycles
Class 1: Have a motor that provides assistance
only when the rider is pedaling, and stops
providing assistance when the bicycle reaches a
speed of 20 miles per hour.
Class 2: Have a motor that provides assistance
whether or not the rider is pedaling the bicycle,
and stops providing assistance when the bicycle
reaches a speed of 20 miles per hour.
Class 3: Have a motor that provides assistance
only when the rider is pedaling and stops
providing assistance when the bicycle reaches a
speed of 28 miles per hour.
Electric Low-Speed Vehicles
• Are designed to transport only the operator.
• Weigh less than100 pounds.
• Have a front and back wheel in line with
each other, or one wheel in front and two in
the back.
• Have handlebars and a platform the rider
stands on.
• Are powered by an electric motor and
human power.
• Can operate at a speed of up to 20 miles
per hour.
Note: If you use a low-speed electric vehicle,
check to see if there are other local restrictions.
MARYLAND
Driver’s Manual
