§ 21–903
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 21-903 (2026)
Title 21. Vehicle Laws -- Rules of the Road
Subtitle 9. Reckless, Negligent, or Impaired Driving; Fleeing or Eluding Police
§ 21–903LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Alcoholic beverage” means a spirituous, vinous, malt, or fermented liquor, liquid, or compound that contains at least 0.5% alcohol by volume and is fit for beverage purposes.
(3)
“Cannabis” has the meaning stated in § 5–101 of the Criminal Law Article.
(4)
(i)
“Passenger area” means an area that:
(1)
Is designed to seat the driver and any passenger of a motor vehicle while the motor vehicle is in operation; or
(2)
Is readily accessible to the driver or a passenger of a motor vehicle while in their seating positions.
(ii)
“Passenger area” does not include:
(1)
A locked glove compartment;
(2)
The trunk of a motor vehicle; or
(3)
If a motor vehicle is not equipped with a trunk, the area behind the rearmost upright seat or an area that is not normally occupied by the driver or a passenger of the motor vehicle.
(b)
This section applies to a motor vehicle that is driven, stopped, standing, or otherwise located on a highway.
(c)
A driver of a motor vehicle may not consume an alcoholic beverage, or smoke or consume cannabis, in a passenger area of a motor vehicle on a highway.
(d)
Notwithstanding § 6–320, § 6–321, or § 6–322 of the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, or any other provision of law, the prohibition contained in this section applies throughout the State.