Maryland Insurance Laws
Here's what you need to know:
Maryland drivers need to carry valid proof of insurance.
Effective October 1, 2016, all Maryland drivers are required to carry valid proof of insurance. Law enforcement officers will ask drivers to show proof of insurance at all traffic stops, along with their driver’s license and registration. Drivers can show the hard copy of the card or the electronic version of the card on your phone or electronic device.
During the introductory period for the new law, officers will issue warnings to drivers who don’t have a valid insurance ID. Starting on July 1, 2017, drivers who are unable to provide valid proof of insurance will receive a $50 fine.
So what do you need to do?
If you have insurance, make sure you have your most recent insurance card. If you don’t have the current card, contact your insurer to request a copy or call our Policy Services team at 800-492-7120 and follow the prompts to “Policy” then “Personal Auto.”
If you don’t currently have insurance, you’re going to need it. This law is intended to help the state of Maryland identify uninsured drivers and encourage them to get insured. The $50 fine is only the start. Uninsured drivers in Maryland are subject to penalties. $150 for the first 30 days, then $7 every day after – and that’s for each uninsured vehicle – adding up to over $2,400 per year…less than the average annual Maryland Auto policy ($2,000).
The good news – you can get a valid insurance ID today! Click Get A Quote to start the process online, or go to Find An Agent to find an authorized Maryland Auto provider near you.
