Maryland (MD) - State Requirements for Ignition Interlock Devices
The Maryland Ignition Interlock Program
As of October 1, 2024, Maryland’s new law, HB 105, will require ignition interlock devices (IIDs) for more first-time DUI offenders and those with lower BAC levels between .07 and .0799. This change is part of Maryland’s ongoing effort to make roads safer and reduce drunk driving.
In Maryland, the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is .08 percent. Anyone driving with a BAC at or above this limit can be charged with DUI. Additional penalties may be imposed depending on the circumstances of the alcohol-related driving incident, including the installation of a Maryland ignition interlock device (IID) to regain driving privileges.
There are two types of alcohol-related driving offenses in Maryland:
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI) for drivers with a BAC of .08 percent or higher
- Driving While Impaired (DWI) for drivers with a BAC between .07 and .0799
With the new expansion to Noah’s Law (HB 105), DWI offenders will now also be required to install an IID.
What Happens if I Get a DUI in Maryland?
Penalties for DUI in Maryland are both administrative and legal, and they increase for each offense. Penalties may also increase depending on the exact circumstances of the incident, such as if anyone is injured or a child is present. The court may add additional penalties depending on the circumstances of the offense, such as if there were prior offenses, property damage, or an excessively high BAC.
First DUI Offense
- Six-month license suspension
- Fines of up to $1,000
- One-year in jail
- 12 points added to driving record
- Ignition interlock Maryland approves may need to be installed
Second DUI Offense
- Up to two years in jail
- $2,000 fine
- One-year license revocation
- 12 points added to driving record
- Installation of ignition interlock device Maryland approves required for drivers convicted twice within five years
- Repeat offenders who offend within five years may be ordered to attend treatment
Third DUI Offense
- Up to three years in jail
- Pay up to $3,000 fine
- 12 points added to driving record
- May be required to attend a treatment program
Ignition interlock Maryland approves required to be installed on every vehicle they own
HB 105 Credit for Early Installation
Under HB 105, Maryland drivers can now receive credit toward their IID requirement starting from the day of installation. Installing the device early can shorten the required usage period.
Expungement Opportunities Under HB 105
Starting October 1, 2024, Maryland’s HB 105 allows certain DUI offenses to be expunged. Drivers who received a probation before judgment (PBJ) for impaired driving may be eligible to apply for expungement 15 years after completing probation. This provides a path to clear your record after demonstrating long-term compliance with Maryland’s laws.
What Happens if I Fail to Complete or Refuse to Submit to a DUI Test in Maryland?
Refusing the test does not excuse an offender from consequences. Refusing to take a blood alcohol content test is an automatic license suspension for 270 days, and two years on a second offense and refusal. There may be additional fines and penalties handed out depending on the circumstances of the offense.
How Do I Get a Restricted Driver’s License in Maryland?
In Maryland, criminal aspects of the DUI offense are handled in court. There is also a separate administrative hearing regarding driving privileges. This hearing is where driver’s license restrictions and revocations are discussed and decided.
Eligible drivers may be allowed to apply for a restricted license that allows them to regain driving privileges. If approved they will be allowed to drive to approved locations.
To get a restricted driver’s license in Maryland, offenders must:
- Fill out the application for a restricted license
- Pay all fines
- Complete treatment if required
- May need to show proof of SR-22 insurance
- Install an ignition interlock device Maryland approves