Transportation (GTR) — Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Subtitle 1. Parties Subject to the Maryland Vehicle Law
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-101 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 1. Parties Subject to the Maryland Vehicle Law
§ 26–101LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Any person who commits a violation of the Maryland Vehicle Law, whether as a principal, agent, or accessory, is guilty of the violation.
(b)
Any person who attempts to commit a violation of the Maryland Vehicle Law, whether as a principal, agent, or accessory, is guilty of the violation.
(c)
Any person who conspires to commit a violation of the Maryland Vehicle Law, whether as a principal, agent, or accessory, is guilty of the violation.
(d)
Any person who aids another in the commission of a violation of the Maryland Vehicle Law, whether as a principal, agent, or accessory, is guilty of the violation.
(e)
Any person who abets another in the commission of a violation of the Maryland Vehicle Law, whether as a principal, agent, or accessory, is guilty of the violation.
(f)
Any person who intentionally induces another to commit a violation of the Maryland Vehicle Law is guilty of the violation.
(g)
Any person who intentionally causes another to commit a violation of the Maryland Vehicle Law is guilty of the violation.
(h)
Any person who intentionally coerces another to commit a violation of the Maryland Vehicle Law is guilty of the violation.
(i)
Any person who intentionally permits another to commit a violation of the Maryland Vehicle Law is guilty of the violation.
(j)
Any person who intentionally directs another to commit a violation of the Maryland Vehicle Law is guilty of the violation.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-102 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 1. Parties Subject to the Maryland Vehicle Law
§ 26–102LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A person who owns a vehicle may not require or knowingly permit the operation of the vehicle on a highway in any manner contrary to law.
(b)
A person who employs or otherwise directs the driver of a vehicle may not require or knowingly permit the operation of the vehicle on a highway in any manner contrary to law.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-103 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 1. Parties Subject to the Maryland Vehicle Law
§ 26–103LinkCopy Citation
Subject to the exemptions specified in the Maryland Vehicle Law, the following titles of this article apply to the driver of any vehicle owned or operated by the United States, this State, or any political subdivision of this State:
(1)
Title 20, “Accidents and Accident Reports”;
(2)
Title 21, “Rules of the Road”;
(3)
Title 22, “Equipment of Vehicles”;
(4)
Title 23, “Inspection of Used Vehicles and Warnings for Defective Equipment”; and
(5)
Title 24, “Size, Weight, and Load; Highway Preservation”.
Subtitle 2. Citation and Arrest
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-201 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 2. Citation and Arrest
§ 26–201LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A police officer may charge a person with a violation of any of the following, if the officer has probable cause to believe that the person has committed or is committing the violation:
(1)
The Maryland Vehicle Law, including any regulation adopted under any of its provisions;
(2)
A traffic law or ordinance of any local authority;
(3)
Title 9, Subtitle 2 of the Tax – General Article;
(4)
Title 9, Subtitle 3 of the Tax – General Article;
(5)
Title 10, Subtitle 4 of the Business Regulation Article;
(6)
§ 10–323 of the Business Regulation Article; or
(7)
§ 10–323.2 of the Business Regulation Article.
(b)
A police officer who charges a person under this section shall issue a traffic citation, and provide a copy, to the person charged.
(c)
A traffic citation issued to a person under this section shall contain:
(1)
(i)
A notice in boldface type that, if the citation is a payable violation:
(1)
The person must comply with one of the following within 30 days after receipt of the citation:
(A)
Pay the full amount of the preset fine;
(B)
Enter into a payment plan under § 7–504.1 of the Courts Article, if the defendant has at least $150 in total outstanding fines and is otherwise qualified to enter into a payment plan;
(C)
Request a hearing regarding sentencing and disposition in lieu of a trial as provided in § 26–204(b)(2) of this subtitle; or
(D)
Request a trial date at the date, time, and place established by the District Court by writ or trial notice; and
(2)
(A)
If the person fails to comply within 30 days after receipt of the citation, the Administration will be notified and may take action to suspend the person’s driver’s license; and
(B)
Driving on a suspended license is a criminal offense for which the person could be incarcerated; or
(ii)
If the citation is for a must–appear violation, a notice that:
(1)
The citation is a summons to appear as notified by a circuit court or the District Court through a trial notice setting the date, time, and place for the person to appear; or
(2)
A circuit court or the District Court will issue a writ setting the date, time, and place for the person to appear;
(2)
The name and address of the person;
(3)
The number of the person’s license to drive, if applicable;
(4)
The State registration number of the vehicle, if applicable;
(5)
The violation or violations charged;
(6)
An acknowledgment of receipt of the citation, to be executed by the person as required under § 1–605 of the Courts Article;
(7)
Near the acknowledgment, a clear and conspicuous statement that:
(i)
Acknowledgment of the citation by the person does not constitute an admission of guilt; and
(ii)
The failure to acknowledge receipt of the citation may subject the person to arrest; and
(8)
Any other necessary information.
(d)
If a citation is marked “you have the right to stand trial”:
(1)
The form of the defendant’s copy of the citation shall include in boldface type a description of the following options:
(i)
Payment of the fine;
(ii)
Enter into a payment plan under § 7–504.1 of the Courts Article, if the defendant has at least $150 in total outstanding fines and is otherwise qualified to enter into a payment plan;
(iii)
Request a trial; and
(iv)
Request a “guilty with an explanation” hearing regarding sentencing and disposition in lieu of a trial; and
(2)
The form of the “return to court” copy of the citation shall include in boldface type a check–off box for each of the options described in item (1) of this subsection.
(e)
A police officer who discovers a vehicle stopped, standing, or parked in violation of § 21–1003 or § 21–1010 of this article shall:
(1)
Deliver a copy of a citation to the driver or, if the vehicle is unattended, attach a copy of a citation to the vehicle in a conspicuous place; and
(2)
Keep a written or electronic copy of the citation, bearing the police officer’s certification under penalty of perjury that the facts stated in the citation are true.
(f)
(1)
A police officer who discovers a motor vehicle parked in violation of § 13–402 of this article shall:
(i)
Deliver a copy of a citation to the driver or, if the motor vehicle is unattended, attach a copy of a citation to the motor vehicle in a conspicuous place; and
(ii)
Keep a written or electronic copy of the citation, bearing the law enforcement officer’s certification under penalty of perjury that the facts stated in the citation are true.
(2)
In the absence of the driver, the owner of the motor vehicle is presumed to be the person receiving the copy of a citation or warning.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-202 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 2. Citation and Arrest
§ 26–202LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A police officer may arrest without a warrant a person for a violation of the Maryland Vehicle Law, including any rule or regulation adopted under it, or for a violation of any traffic law or ordinance of any local authority of this State, if:
(1)
The person has committed or is committing the violation within the view or presence of the officer, and the violation is any of the following:
(i)
A violation of § 21–1411 or § 22–409 of this article, relating to vehicles transporting hazardous materials; or
(ii)
A violation of § 24–111 or § 24–111.1 of this article, relating to the failure or refusal to submit a vehicle to a weighing or to remove excess weight from it;
(2)
The person has committed or is committing the violation within the view or presence of the officer, and either:
(i)
The person does not furnish satisfactory evidence of identity; or
(ii)
The officer has reasonable grounds to believe that the person will disregard a traffic citation;
(3)
The officer has probable cause to believe that the person has committed the violation, and the violation is any of the following offenses:
(i)
Driving or attempting to drive while under the influence of alcohol, while impaired by alcohol, or in violation of an alcohol restriction;
(ii)
Driving or attempting to drive while impaired by any drug, any combination of drugs, or any combination of one or more drugs and alcohol or while impaired by any controlled dangerous substance;
(iii)
Failure to stop, give information, or render reasonable assistance, as required by §§ 20–102 and 20–104 of this article, in the event of an accident resulting in bodily injury to or death of any person;
(iv)
Driving or attempting to drive a motor vehicle while the driver’s license or privilege to drive is suspended or revoked;
(v)
Failure to stop or give information, as required by §§ 20–103 through 20–105 of this article, in the event of an accident resulting in damage to a vehicle or other property;
(vi)
Any offense that caused or contributed to an accident resulting in bodily injury to or death of any person;
(vii)
Fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer;
(viii)
Driving or attempting to drive a vehicle in violation of § 16–101 of this article;
(ix)
A violation of § 14–110(b), (c), (d), or (e) of this article; or
(x)
A violation of § 21–1116(a) of this article that results in serious bodily injury to another person;
(4)
The person is a nonresident and the officer has probable cause to believe that:
(i)
The person has committed the violation; and
(ii)
The violation contributed to an accident; or
(5)
The officer has probable cause to believe that the person has committed the violation, and, subject to the procedures set forth in § 26–203 of this subtitle, the person is issued a traffic citation and refuses to acknowledge its receipt by signature.
(b)
An arrest under this section shall be made in the same manner as, and without more force than, in misdemeanor cases.
(c)
A person arrested under this section shall be taken without unnecessary delay before a District Court commissioner, as specified in § 26-401 of this title, unless the arresting officer in his discretion releases the individual upon the individual’s written promise to appear for trial.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-203 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 2. Citation and Arrest
§ 26–203LinkCopy Citation
(a)
This section applies to all traffic citations issued under this subtitle, unless:
(1)
The person otherwise is being arrested under § 26–202(a)(1), (2), (3), or (4) of this subtitle;
(2)
The person is incapacitated or otherwise unable to comply with the provisions of this section;
(3)
The citation is being issued to an unattended vehicle in violation of § 21–1003 of this article; or
(4)
The citation is being issued to an unattended motor vehicle in violation of § 13–402 of this article.
(b)
On issuing a traffic citation, the police officer:
(1)
Shall ask the person to acknowledge receipt of a copy of the citation, as required under § 1–605 of the Courts Article; and
(2)
If the person refuses to do so, shall advise the person that failure to acknowledge receipt may lead to the person’s arrest.
(c)
(1)
On being advised that failure to acknowledge receipt of a copy of a citation may lead to arrest, the person may not refuse to acknowledge receipt.
(2)
If the person continues to refuse to do so, the police officer may arrest the person for violation of this section or, as provided in § 26–202(a)(5) of this subtitle, for the original charge, or both.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-204 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 2. Citation and Arrest
§ 26–204LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
A person shall comply with the notice to appear contained in a writ or a trial notice issued by either the District Court or a circuit court in an action on a traffic citation.
(2)
Unless the person charged demands an earlier hearing, a time specified to appear shall be at least 5 days after the alleged violation.
(b)
(1)
For purposes of this section, the person may comply with the notice to appear by:
(i)
Appearance in person;
(ii)
Appearance by counsel;
(iii)
Payment of the fine for a particular offense, if provided for in the citation for that offense; or
(iv)
Entering into a payment plan under § 7–504.1 of the Courts Article, if applicable.
(2)
(i)
Subject to the provisions of subparagraph (iii) of this paragraph, a person who intends to comply with the notice to appear contained in a traffic citation by appearance in person or by counsel may return a copy of the citation to the District Court within the time allowed for payment of the fine indicating in the appropriate space on the citation that the person:
(1)
Does not dispute the truth of the facts as alleged in the citation; and
(2)
Requests, in lieu of a trial, a hearing before the Court regarding sentencing and disposition.
(ii)
A person who requests a hearing under the provisions of subparagraph (i) of this paragraph waives:
(1)
Any right to a trial of the facts as alleged in the citation; and
(2)
Any right to compel the appearance of the police officer who issued the citation.
(iii)
A person may request a hearing under the provisions of subparagraph (i) of this paragraph only if the traffic citation is for an offense that is not punishable by incarceration.
(c)
If a person fails to comply with a notice under § 26–201(c)(1) of this subtitle, a notice for a hearing date issued in accordance with a request made under § 26–201(c)(1)(i)3 of this subtitle, a writ or trial notice issued in accordance with a request made under § 26–201(c)(1)(i)4 of this subtitle, or a notice to appear under § 26–201(c)(2) of this subtitle, the District Court or a circuit court may:
(1)
Except as provided in subsection (f) of this section, issue a warrant for the person’s arrest; or
(2)
After 5 days, notify the Administration of the person’s noncompliance.
(d)
On receipt of a notice of noncompliance from the District Court or a circuit court, the Administration shall notify the person that the person’s driving privileges shall be suspended unless, by the end of the 15th day after the date on which the notice is mailed, the person:
(1)
Pays the fine on the original charge as provided for in the original citations;
(2)
Enters into a payment plan under § 7–504.1 of the Courts Article, if applicable; or
(3)
Requests a new date for a trial or a hearing on sentencing and disposition.
(e)
(1)
If a person fails to pay the fine, enter into a payment plan, or request a new date for a trial or hearing under subsection (d) of this section, the Administration may suspend the driving privileges of the person.
(2)
On notice from the District Court or a circuit court that a person has paid the fine, entered into a payment plan, or requested a new date for a trial or hearing, the Administration shall withdraw the suspension of the driver’s license or driving privileges of the person.
(3)
On notice from the District Court or a circuit court that a person who requested a new date for a trial or a hearing under paragraph (2) of this subsection failed to attend the new trial or hearing, the Administration shall suspend the driver’s license or driving privileges of the person until the person:
(i)
Appears before the court at a trial or hearing;
(ii)
Pays the fine, if provided for in the original charge; or
(iii)
Enters into a payment plan under § 5–504.1 of the Courts Article, if applicable.
(f)
When the offense is not punishable by incarceration, if the court notifies the Administration of the person’s noncompliance under subsection (c) of this section, a warrant may not be issued for the person under this section until 20 days after:
(1)
The expiration of the time period required to comply with § 26–201(c)(1)(i) of this subtitle, if the person has not requested a hearing regarding sentencing and disposition or a trial date; or
(2)
The original trial date if a trial has been scheduled in response to a request under § 26–201(c)(1)(i)4 of this subtitle.
(g)
With the cooperation of the District Court and circuit courts, the Administration shall develop procedures to carry out this section.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-206 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 2. Citation and Arrest
§ 26–206LinkCopy Citation
(a)
If a person fails to comply with a notice to appear in U.S. District Court contained in a traffic citation issued to him under federal traffic laws or regulations for a violation occurring in Maryland, the U.S. District Court may notify the Administration of the noncompliance.
(b)
On receipt of a notice of noncompliance from the U.S. District Court, and after giving the person 10 days’ written notice, the Administration may suspend the driving privileges of the person.
(c)
With the cooperation of the U.S. District Court, the Administration shall develop procedures to carry out the provisions of this section that relate to the suspension of driving privileges.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-207 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 2. Citation and Arrest
§ 26–207LinkCopy Citation
(a)
If a person holding a commercial driver’s license fails to comply with a notice to appear in court or a notice for failure to pay a fine for a traffic citation issued to the person under the laws or regulations of another state, and the other state’s driver licensing authority notified the Administration of the noncompliance, on receipt of the notice of noncompliance and after giving the person 10 days’ written notice, the Administration shall suspend the driving privileges of the person until receipt of a notice of compliance from the other state.
(b)
In cooperation with other states’ driver licensing authorities, the Administration shall develop procedures to carry out the provisions of this section that relate to the suspension of driving privileges.
Subtitle 3. Parking Ordinances and Regulations
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-301 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 3. Parking Ordinances and Regulations
§ 26–301LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle, “officer” means a police officer or a person other than a police officer who is authorized to issue a citation for a violation of an ordinance or regulation that is adopted under this section.
(b)
Subject to subsection (c) of this section, any State agency authorized by law and any political subdivision of this State may adopt ordinances or regulations that:
(1)
Regulate the parking of vehicles;
(2)
Provide for the impounding of vehicles parked in violation of the ordinances or regulations;
(3)
Regulate the towing of vehicles from publicly owned and privately owned parking lots;
(4)
Provide for the issuance of a citation by an officer for a violation of an ordinance or regulation that is adopted under this section; and
(5)
Authorize an employee or agent of the State agency or political subdivision to take possession of any registration plate described in § 12–110(a)(2) of this article that is being displayed by a parked vehicle.
(b–1)
(1)
In addition to any other penalty provided for in the Maryland Vehicle Law, if the Administration has reasonable cause to believe that a motor vehicle owner is a resident of the State and has failed to properly register the motor vehicle with the Administration and display valid registration plates issued by the Administration on the motor vehicle, the motor vehicle owner is subject to a warning requiring the motor vehicle owner, within 60 days after issuance of the warning, to:
(i)
Properly register the motor vehicle with the Administration and display valid registration plates issued by the Administration on the motor vehicle; or
(ii)
Provide proof acceptable to the Administration that the motor vehicle is not required to be registered in the State.
(2)
(i)
If the motor vehicle owner provides proof acceptable to the Administration that the motor vehicle is not required to be registered in the State, if applicable as determined by the Administration, the motor vehicle owner shall obtain and display on the motor vehicle a nonresident permit issued by the Administration.
(ii)
If the motor vehicle owner fails, within 60 days after issuance of a warning under this subsection, to properly register the motor vehicle and display valid registration plates on the motor vehicle or provide proof acceptable to the Administration that registration in the State is not required, the Administration shall begin to assess a civil fine against the motor vehicle of $7 per day for up to 60 days or until the motor vehicle is properly registered and displaying valid registration plates or the Administration determines that the motor vehicle is not subject to registration in the State, whichever occurs first.
(3)
(i)
The Administration shall notify the appropriate local jurisdiction if a motor vehicle owner fails, within 120 days after issuance of a warning under this subsection, to properly register the motor vehicle and display valid registration plates on the motor vehicle or satisfy the Administration that the motor vehicle is not subject to registration in the State.
(ii)
The appropriate county attorney may bring a civil action in rem against a motor vehicle for which the motor vehicle owner fails under this subsection to properly register and display valid registration plates or to satisfy the Administration that the motor vehicle is not subject to registration in the State.
(iii)
In a civil action in rem brought under this subsection, the appropriate county attorney may seek immobilization of the motor vehicle by towing or removal and impoundment or by booting.
(c)
A political subdivision may not adopt or enforce an ordinance or regulation that prohibits the parking of more than one motorcycle within a space served by a single parking meter.
(d)
(1)
In this subsection, “rental vehicle” means a vehicle that is rented or leased for a period not exceeding 180 days.
(2)
If a parking citation is issued for a rental vehicle, the owner is not liable for any penalty in excess of the original fine for a parking violation unless the owner fails to pay the fine or file a notice of intention to stand trial for the violation within the time specified in a notice of the infraction mailed to the business address of the owner.
(3)
If a political subdivision or State agency receives payment for a parking violation from both the owner of the vehicle and the person who had possession of the rental vehicle at the time the parking citation was issued, the political subdivision or State agency shall reimburse the owner of the vehicle for the amount paid by the owner for the violation.
(e)
Any State agency authorized by law and any political subdivision of the State may establish public outreach efforts to educate law enforcement officers, businesses, medical practitioners, and the general public as to parking laws and regulations, including:
(1)
The authority of law enforcement officers to enter private parking lots used by the public; and
(2)
Specific eligibility criteria for, and requirements for the lawful use of, special registration plates and placards issued under Title 13, Subtitle 6 of this article for individuals with disabilities.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-301.1 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 3. Parking Ordinances and Regulations
§ 26–301.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Funding” includes any form of assurance, guarantee, grant payment, credit, tax credit, or other assistance.
(3)
“Vehicle parking facility” has the meaning stated in § 4–101 of this article.
(b)
A vehicle parking facility shall allow motorcycles to park in the facility, subject to the charges established by the facility, if:
(1)
The facility is owned, operated, or leased by the State or a political subdivision of the State; or
(2)
The facility receives funding from the State or a political subdivision of the State.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-302 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 3. Parking Ordinances and Regulations
§ 26–302LinkCopy Citation
(a)
An officer who discovers a vehicle parked in violation of an ordinance or regulation adopted under this subtitle shall:
(1)
Deliver a citation to the driver or, if the vehicle is unattended, attach a citation to the vehicle in a conspicuous place; and
(2)
Keep a copy of the citation, bearing his certification under penalty of perjury that the facts stated in the citation are true.
(b)
In the absence of the driver, the registered owner of the vehicle is presumed to be the person receiving the citation.
(c)
(1)
A citation issued under this section shall include a box that the person issued the citation may check to indicate that the registration plates cited were not issued for the vehicle described in the citation.
(2)
A political subdivision, State agency, or third–party contractor authorized to conduct parking enforcement on behalf of a political subdivision or State agency that issues a citation under this section to a person who returns the citation with the box checked as described in paragraph (1) of this subsection:
(i)
Shall verify through the Administration whether the person issued the citation should be held liable for the violation; and
(ii)
May contact the person issued the citation as part of the verification process.
(3)
After the verification process initiated under paragraph (2) of this subsection, if the political subdivision, State agency, or third–party contractor finds that the person issued the citation should not be held liable for the citation, the political subdivision, State agency, or third–party contractor shall dismiss the citation.
(4)
A person may not submit a citation with the box checked as indicated in paragraph (1) of this subsection to a political subdivision, State agency, or third–party contractor if the registration plates cited were issued for the vehicle described in the citation.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-303 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 3. Parking Ordinances and Regulations
§ 26–303LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The person receiving a citation under this subtitle shall:
(i)
Pay for the parking violation directly to the political subdivision or State agency serving the citation; or
(ii)
Elect to stand trial for the violation.
(2)
An election to stand trial shall be made by sending a notice of intention to stand trial to the political subdivision or State agency at least 5 days before the payment date specified in the citation.
(b)
(1)
If a person elects to stand trial and desires the presence at trial of the officer who issued the citation, he shall so notify the political subdivision or State agency at the time the notice of intention to stand trial is given.
(2)
If proper notification is not given, the officer need not appear at the trial, and the copy of the citation bearing the certification of the officer is prima facie evidence of the facts stated in it.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-304 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 3. Parking Ordinances and Regulations
§ 26–304LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Chief Judge of the District Court shall adopt procedures for the trial of parking violations under this subtitle.
(b)
The procedures adopted under this section shall include provisions for notifying the person receiving a citation of:
(1)
The date of trial, which may not be less than 15 days from the date on which the notice of intention of the person to stand trial is received;
(2)
The place of trial; and
(3)
The time of trial.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-305 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 3. Parking Ordinances and Regulations
§ 26–305LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Administration may not register or transfer the registration of any vehicle involved in a parking violation under this subtitle, a violation under any federal parking regulation that applies to property in this State under the jurisdiction of the U.S. government, a violation of § 21–202(h) of this article as determined under § 21–202.1 of this article or Title 21, Subtitle 8 of this article as determined under § 21–809, § 21–810, or § 21–810.1 of this article, or a violation of the Illegal Dumping and Litter Control Law under § 10–110 of the Criminal Law Article or a local law or ordinance adopted by Baltimore City relating to the unlawful disposal of litter as determined under § 10–112 of the Criminal Law Article, if:
(1)
It is notified by a political subdivision or authorized State agency that the person cited for the violation under this subtitle, § 21–202.1, § 21–809, § 21–810, or § 21–810.1 of this article, or § 10–110 or § 10–112 of the Criminal Law Article has failed to either:
(i)
Pay the fine for the violation by the date specified in the citation; or
(ii)
File a notice of his intention to stand trial for the violation;
(2)
It is notified by the District Court that a person who has elected to stand trial for the violation under this subtitle, under § 21–202.1, § 21–809, § 21–810, or § 21–810.1 of this article, or under § 10–110 or § 10–112 of the Criminal Law Article has failed to appear for trial; or
(3)
It is notified by a U.S. District Court that a person cited for a violation under a federal parking regulation:
(i)
Has failed to pay the fine for the violation by the date specified in the federal citation; or
(ii)
Either has failed to file a notice of the person’s intention to stand trial for the violation, or, if electing to stand trial, has failed to appear for trial.
(b)
(1)
Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a) of this section, the Administration may suspend the registration of a vehicle involved in a parking violation under this subtitle or a violation under any federal parking regulation that applies to property in this State under the jurisdiction of the U.S. government if notified in accordance with subsection (a) of this section that the violator is a chronic offender.
(2)
The Administration may adopt rules and regulations to define chronic offender and develop procedures to carry out the suspension of registration as authorized by this subsection.
(c)
The Administration shall continue the suspension and refusal to register or transfer a registration of the vehicle until:
(1)
If the suspension or refusal was required under subsection (a)(1) or (b)(1) of this section, the political subdivision or State agency notifies the Administration that the charge has been satisfied;
(2)
If the suspension or refusal was required under subsection (a)(2) or (b)(1) of this section, the District Court notifies the Administration that the person cited has appeared for trial or has pleaded guilty and paid the fine for the violation; or
(3)
If the suspension or refusal was required under subsection (a)(3) or (b)(1) of this section, the U.S. District Court notifies the Administration that the charge has been satisfied.
(d)
If the registration of the vehicle has been suspended in accordance with subsection (b)(1) of this section, a person may not drive the vehicle on any highway in this State.
(e)
The procedures specified in this section are in addition to any other penalty provided by law for the failure to pay a fine or stand trial for a parking violation.
(f)
The Administration shall adopt procedures by which the political subdivisions, State agencies, the District Court, and the U.S. District Court shall notify it of any restrictions and any rescission of restrictions placed on the registration of vehicles under this section.
(g)
(1)
In addition to any other fee or penalty provided by law, an owner of a vehicle who is denied registration of the vehicle under the provisions of this section shall pay a fee established by the Administration before renewal of the registration of the vehicle.
(2)
The fee described under paragraph (1) of this subsection:
(i)
May be distributed in part to a political subdivision acting as an agent of the Administration in the registration of a vehicle under § 13–404 of this article if, based upon information provided to the Administration by the political subdivision under this section, the vehicle’s prior registration was suspended or the vehicle’s registration renewal was denied; and
(ii)
Except as provided under item (i) of this paragraph, shall be retained by the Administration and may not be credited to the Gasoline and Motor Vehicle Revenue Account for distribution under § 8–403 or § 8–404 of this article.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-306 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 3. Parking Ordinances and Regulations
§ 26–306LinkCopy Citation
Any State, county, or municipal corporation, or any of its agencies, which mistakenly or otherwise wrongfully authorizes the towing, impoundment, or storage of a privately owned motor vehicle shall reimburse the owner of the vehicle for all reasonable towing and storage costs incurred by the owner as a result of the mistaken or wrongful action.
Subtitle 4. Venue, Court Procedure, Bail, and Charging Documents
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-401 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 4. Venue, Court Procedure, Bail, and Charging Documents
§ 26–401LinkCopy Citation
If a person is taken before a District Court commissioner or is given a traffic citation or a civil citation under § 21–202.1, § 21–809, § 21–810, § 21–810.1, § 21–1414, or § 24–111.3 of this article containing a notice to appear in court, the commissioner or court shall be one that sits within the county in which the offense allegedly was committed.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-402 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 4. Venue, Court Procedure, Bail, and Charging Documents
§ 26–402LinkCopy Citation
(a)
This section does not apply if the alleged offense is any of the offenses enumerated in § 26–202(a)(3)(i), (ii), (iii), and (iv) of this title.
(b)
If a police officer arrests a person and takes the person before a District Court commissioner as provided in this title, the person shall be released on issuance of a citation if:
(1)
A commissioner is not available;
(2)
A judge, clerk, or other public officer, authorized to accept bail for the court is not available; and
(3)
The person charged gives the person’s written promise to appear in court.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-403 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 4. Venue, Court Procedure, Bail, and Charging Documents
§ 26–403LinkCopy Citation
A District Court commissioner may not set bail in an amount greater than the maximum allowed as a fine for the alleged offense.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-404 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 4. Venue, Court Procedure, Bail, and Charging Documents
§ 26–404LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Guaranteed arrest bond certificate” means any certificate that is issued under this section by an insurance company or motor club to provide bail bond services to any of its insureds or members.
(3)
“Insurance company” means an insurance company that is authorized to write automobile liability insurance in this State.
(4)
“Motor club” has the meaning stated in § 26-101 of the Insurance Article.
(5)
“Surety company” means any company designated as a surety company under Title 21 of the Insurance Article.
(b)
Within the limitations of this section, the following persons may issue a guaranteed arrest bond certificate:
(1)
Any insurance company that is also a surety company; or
(2)
If acting in conjunction with a surety company, any other insurance company or any motor club.
(c)
A guaranteed arrest bond certificate shall:
(1)
Specify its expiration date; and
(2)
Contain printed statements that:
(i)
The issuer and surety company guarantee the court appearance of the person to whom the certificate is issued; and
(ii)
If the person fails to appear in court at the time of the trial, it will pay any fine or forfeiture that is imposed on the person and does not exceed $1,000.
(d)
Any surety company may become surety for persons posting guaranteed arrest bond certificates by filing an undertaking to become surety with the Insurance Administration.
(e)
(1)
A guaranteed arrest bond certificate may not be delivered or issued for delivery in this State unless the form has been filed with and approved by the Insurance Commissioner.
(2)
Unless the Insurance Commissioner affirmatively approves or disapproves the form within 30 days after it is filed with him, he is considered to have approved it.
(3)
An order of the Insurance Commissioner disapproving the form or withdrawing a previous approval shall state the reasons for the action taken.
(f)
A guaranteed arrest bond certificate may not be accepted:
(1)
As a part of a surety undertaking or bail bond requirement of more than $1,000; or
(2)
To guarantee the appearance of any person in a court of this State, if the offense charged is:
(i)
Driving or attempting to drive while under the influence of alcohol or while impaired by alcohol;
(ii)
Driving or attempting to drive while impaired by any drug, any combination of drugs, or any combination of one or more drugs and alcohol or while impaired by any controlled dangerous substance; or
(iii)
Any felony.�
(g)
(1)
Except as provided in subsection (f) of this section, if the offense allegedly was committed before the expiration date of the certificate, the posting of a guaranteed arrest bond certificate by the person to whom it was issued shall be accepted, instead of cash bail or other bond, to guarantee the appearance in any court in this State, at a time designated by the court, of any person arrested for a violation of:
(i)
Any provision of the Maryland Vehicle Law; or
(ii)
Any traffic law or ordinance of any political subdivision of this State.
(2)
A guaranteed arrest bond certificate posted as bail bond is subject to forfeiture if the person who posted it fails to appear in court at the time of the trial.
(3)
The provisions of this section apply to both residents and nonresidents of this State.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-405 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 4. Venue, Court Procedure, Bail, and Charging Documents
§ 26–405LinkCopy Citation
If a person is charged with a violation of § 21-901.1 of this article (“Reckless and negligent driving”) or § 21-902 of this article (“Driving while under the influence of alcohol, while under the influence of alcohol per se, while impaired by alcohol, or while impaired by a drug, a combination of drugs, a combination of one or more drugs and alcohol, or while impaired by a controlled dangerous substance”), the court may find the person guilty of any lesser included offense under any subsection of the respective section.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-405.1 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 4. Venue, Court Procedure, Bail, and Charging Documents
§ 26–405.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The disposition of a penalty deposit posted under § 26-204(d) of this title shall be as provided in this section.
(b)
If the defendant does not appear on the trial date set, the deposit shall be forfeited in full as the fine on the original charge.
(c)
If the defendant does appear on the trial date set:
(1)
First, the deposit shall be applied to any fine that the court imposes on the original charge; and
(2)
Then, the balance of the deposit not applied to the fine shall be returned to the defendant.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-407 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 4. Venue, Court Procedure, Bail, and Charging Documents
§ 26–407LinkCopy Citation
(a)
This section does not affect or modify the procedures established under Subtitle 3 of this title as to violations of parking ordinances or regulations adopted under that subtitle.
(b)
Each police officer who issues a traffic citation to an alleged violator of any State or local law:
(1)
Shall file an electronic or written copy of the citation promptly with the District Court;
(2)
If the person charged acknowledges receipt on a written copy of the citation, shall keep that copy to produce as evidence in court if required; and
(3)
Shall dispose of the other copies of the citation in accordance with the regulations adopted by the Administration.
(c)
After the copy of a traffic citation is filed with the District Court, the citation may be disposed of only by:
(1)
Trial, dismissal of the charges, or other official action by a judge of the court;
(2)
Forfeiture of the collateral, if authorized by the court; or
(3)
Payment of a fine by the person to whom the traffic citation has been issued.
(d)
This section does not prohibit the entry of a “nol pros” or “stet”.
(e)
For each traffic citation issued by a police officer under the police officer’s jurisdiction, the chief executive officer of each traffic enforcement agency shall keep a record of the disposition of the charge by the District Court.
(f)
(1)
Subject to the requirements of this section and in consultation with the Chief Judge of the District Court, the Administration shall adopt regulations:
(i)
To govern the distribution and disposition of written and electronic traffic citation forms; and
(ii)
To specify the records and reports required to be made of the disposition of charges.
(2)
These regulations apply to each traffic enforcement agency and police officer with authority to issue traffic citations for a violation of a State or local law.
(3)
Each police officer and the chief executive officer of each traffic enforcement agency shall make the records and reports required by these regulations.
(g)
(1)
No police officer or other public employee may dispose of a traffic citation, its copies, or the record of the issuance of a traffic citation in any manner other than as required by this section and the regulations adopted by the Administration.
(2)
In addition to being unlawful, a violation of this subsection constitutes official misconduct.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-408 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 4. Venue, Court Procedure, Bail, and Charging Documents
§ 26–408LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A person may not cancel a traffic citation in any manner other than as provided in this subtitle.
(b)
A person may not solicit another person to cancel a traffic citation in any manner other than as provided in this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-409 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 4. Venue, Court Procedure, Bail, and Charging Documents
§ 26–409LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The form of traffic citation provided for under § 1–605 of the Courts Article is a sufficient charging document for the prosecution of any offense for which a traffic citation may be issued under this title if:
(1)
It includes the information required under the laws of this State;
(2)
It is executed by the police officer issuing the citation as required under § 1–605 of the Courts Article; and
(3)
It is filed with the District Court as required under § 1–605 of the Courts Article.
(b)
The trial court may try a case for which a charge is made under this title only on:
(1)
A traffic citation that meets the requirements of a charging document under subsection (a) of this section;
(2)
A warrant, information, or indictment; or
(3)
Any other charging document authorized by a rule adopted by the Supreme Court of Maryland with the concurrence of the Administration.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-410 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 4. Venue, Court Procedure, Bail, and Charging Documents
§ 26–410LinkCopy Citation
Notwithstanding any local law to the contrary, a sheriff is not entitled to any fee for services rendered in connection with a prosecution under the vehicle laws of this State in excess of the fees prescribed for sheriffs by § 7-402 of the Courts Article.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-411 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 4. Venue, Court Procedure, Bail, and Charging Documents
§ 26–411LinkCopy Citation
A constable or police officer is not entitled to any fee for testifying as a witness in any case involving a violation of the vehicle laws of this State.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 26-412 (2026)
Title 26. Vehicle Laws -- Parties and Procedure on Citation, Arrest, Trial, and Appeal
Subtitle 4. Venue, Court Procedure, Bail, and Charging Documents
§ 26–412LinkCopy Citation
If a provision of this title and a provision of Title 4 of the Courts Article conflict, the provision in the Courts Article prevails.