Car Insurance In Maryland 2026: Laws, Costs, Requirements & Companies

Car insurance in Maryland is important for all drivers and is required by law. It helps protect drivers, passengers, and others on the road if there’s an accident. Insurance can cover car repairs, medical bills, and other costs that may happen after a crash. Without insurance, drivers could face serious financial problems and legal penalties.

Maryland has busy roads, a large population, and heavy traffic, especially in cities and areas near Washington, D.C. Many people drive every day for work and school, which increases the risk of accidents.

With more than 15 years in the insurance industry, I’ve watched how Maryland car insurance rules affect drivers every day. In this guide, I’ll break down the legal requirements, explain how each type of coverage actually works, and share practical strategies to help you save money without sacrificing protection.

Does Maryland Require Car Insurance?

Maryland requires car insurance for all drivers. If you own a car and want to register it, you must have active car insurance. This rule helps make sure that drivers can pay for damage or injuries if an accident happens. Driving without insurance in Maryland can lead to fines, penalties, or suspension of your vehicle registration.

Car insurance in Maryland protects not only the driver but also passengers and other people on the road. With busy highways, heavy traffic, and changing weather conditions, accidents can happen at any time. Having insurance helps cover costs and reduces financial stress after a crash, making it an important and necessary requirement.

How Much Insurance Should You Get In Maryland?

In Maryland, the amount of car insurance you should get depends on your driving habits, the value of your vehicle, and your financial situation. While the state requires drivers to carry minimum coverage, that may not be enough to fully protect you after a serious accident. If you drive often, have a newer car, or want more peace of mind, having broader coverage can be a smart choice.

The minimum car insurance that is required includes $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, $15,000 for property damage, plus uninsured motorist coverage at the same levels. The state also requires $2,500 in personal injury protection (PIP) unless it is waived. These limits meet legal requirements, but higher coverage can offer better financial protection after an accident.

How Much Is Car Insurance In Maryland?

Car insurance premiums in Maryland can vary based on factors like your age, the type of car you drive, where you live, and the coverage you choose. Drivers with clean records and safer vehicles often pay less, while higher coverage levels usually cost more than basic policies. Your final premium depends largely on your personal circumstances and the insurance options you select.

Here’s a breakdown of average annual car insurance costs in Maryland for different driver profiles:

• Low-Income Drivers: Affordable options are available for low-income drivers in Maryland, with average monthly minimum coverage policies starting at approximately $85 per month.
• Drivers With A Speeding Ticket: Drivers in Maryland who have a speeding ticket usually pay higher insurance rates. Even short-term policies, such as one-month coverage, can become more expensive. The average cost of minimum coverage is $100 per month.
• Senior Drivers: Drivers aged 65 and older may pay around $150 monthly for full coverage and about $85 per month for minimum coverage.
• Young Drivers: Young drivers in Maryland may pay around $375 monthly for full coverage and about $200 per month for minimum coverage.
• Drivers With Old Cars: Drivers in Maryland who own old cars often pay less for insurance because their vehicles usually cost less to repair or replace. The average monthly full coverage cost is $145.

These figures are general estimates and can vary depending on the insurer and your personal driving profile.

Which Car Insurance Companies Operate In Maryland?

Here are some of the major car insurance companies that operate in Maryland:

• GEICO
• State Farm
• Allstate
• Progressive
• USAA
• Erie Insurance
• Nationwide
• Liberty Mutual
• Travelers

These insurance companies provide different types of coverage and discounts for drivers in Maryland. It’s a good idea to compare prices and what each policy includes so you can choose the one that works best for you.

How To Get Lower Insurance Premiums In Maryland

Here are some simple strategies to lower your car insurance premiums in Maryland:

Keep a clean driving record: Avoid speeding tickets and accidents. Safe drivers usually get lower rates.

Compare quotes often: Different companies charge different prices, so shop around at least once a year.

Ask for discounts: Many Maryland insurers offer discounts for good students, safe drivers, low mileage, or bundling auto and home insurance.

Choose a safer car: Cars with good safety ratings and lower repair costs usually cost less to insure.

Raise your deductible: A higher deductible can lower your monthly premium if you can afford it.

Maryland State Driving Laws

Maryland driving laws are designed to keep drivers, passengers, and pedestrians safe on the road. These laws explain how motorists should behave, what actions are permitted, and what is prohibited.

Understanding Maryland’s driving rules helps you avoid tickets, stay legal, and drive confidently throughout the state.

Driver Licensing And Documents

Drivers in Maryland must have a valid driver’s license to operate a vehicle. You are also required to carry your vehicle registration and proof of insurance at all times. Law enforcement may ask for these documents during a traffic stop.

Speed Limits And Road Signs

Speed limits in Maryland are set to match road and traffic conditions and must always be followed. Drivers must obey all road signs, signals, and pavement markings. Ignoring these rules can lead to fines or points on your license.

Seat Belts And Child Safety

Seat belts are required for drivers and all passengers. Children must be properly secured in age-and size-appropriate car seats or booster seats. These laws help reduce injuries during accidents.

Distracted Driving

Using a handheld phone while driving is illegal in Maryland. Texting, dialing, or holding a phone can result in fines. Drivers should stay focused on the road at all times.

Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited. Maryland enforces strong penalties for impaired driving to protect everyone on the road.

Maryland Car Insurance Contact Information

Knowing where to go for car insurance or vehicle problems in Maryland can make things much easier. Here’s a list of important state agencies and what they can help you with.

Maryland Insurance Administration (MIA)

Phone: 1-800-492-6116

Website: insurance.maryland.gov

Contact the MIA if you have questions about your auto insurance, need help understanding your coverage, or want to file a complaint or dispute with your insurance company.

Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA)

Phone: 1-410-768-7000

Website: mva.maryland.gov

Use the MVA for all driver and vehicle-related services, including getting or renewing a driver’s license, registering your car, transferring a title, or updating vehicle records.

Maryland Department Of Transportation (MDOT)

Phone: 1-410-865-1000

Website: mdot.maryland.gov

MDOT provides information about Maryland highways, traffic conditions, road construction, and closures. You can also report road problems, like potholes or damaged signs.

Common Maryland Car-Related Crimes And Fatalities

It’s important for Maryland drivers to be aware of the car-related crimes that happen most often on the state’s roads. Below is a clear overview of the common car-related crimes and accident risks you should know about.

Drunk Driving (DUI)

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a major cause of accidents in Maryland. DUI is illegal and can lead to fines, license suspension, or jail. It also increases the risk of fatal crashes.

Speeding

Exceeding speed limits is one of the most common traffic offenses and can cause serious accidents. High speeds reduce reaction time and make crashes more deadly.

Reckless Or Aggressive Driving

Reckless driving includes tailgating, weaving through traffic, or running red lights. Aggressive driving behaviors increase the chance of accidents and injuries.

Distracted Driving

Using a phone, eating, or doing other tasks while driving can divert attention from the road. Distracted driving is a leading cause of crashes and fatalities in Maryland.