Minimum Coverage Requirements in Maryland
Maryland calls these permits Restricted Licenses and issues them through the Motor Vehicle Administration, though DUI cases require approval from the administrative law judge during your license hearing. You apply after the suspension begins, not before. The state grants restricted licenses for work, medical appointments, alcohol treatment, education, and childcare transport, but not for general errands.
Meeting the state minimum keeps you legal. See whether it's enough — get your Maryland quote.
Get your Maryland quoteHow Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Maryland?
Maryland restricted license insurance costs more than standard auto insurance because carriers classify suspended drivers as high-risk underwriting. SR-22 filing adds $15–$35 per month, ignition interlock requirements narrow the carrier pool further, and DUI convictions can triple base rates for 3–5 years.
What Affects Your Rate
- DUI convictions increase premiums by 180–250% for three years in Maryland, with the highest surcharge in year one.
- Uninsured driving violations carry smaller surcharges than DUI but still raise rates 40–80% for the SR-22 filing period.
- Baltimore City drivers pay $30–$60 more per month than rural Maryland counties due to higher accident and theft rates.
- Young drivers under 25 with restricted licenses face combined surcharges — age penalty plus violation penalty can exceed 300% over base rates.
- Ignition interlock requirements shrink the carrier pool, limiting your options to specialty high-risk insurers who charge 20–40% more than standard market carriers.
- Maryland assigns points for moving violations during your restricted license period, and accumulating 8 points triggers a second suspension even while you hold the restricted permit.
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Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
SR-22 Insurance
Certificate of financial responsibility filed electronically by your carrier to prove you maintain continuous coverage. Required for DUI, uninsured violations, and some serious traffic offenses in Maryland.
Non-Owner SR-22
Liability-only policy for drivers who don't own a vehicle but need SR-22 filing to reinstate their license or maintain a restricted permit. Covers you when driving borrowed or rental vehicles.
Ignition Interlock Insurance
Coverage for vehicles equipped with ignition interlock devices. Not all carriers write policies for IID-equipped vehicles, and some charge additional premiums to cover the device itself under comprehensive coverage.
High-Risk Auto Insurance
Policies from specialty carriers who underwrite suspended or revoked drivers. Higher premiums than standard market, but these carriers write business that State Farm, Allstate, and GEICO typically decline.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Pays your medical bills and lost wages if you're hit by a driver with no insurance or inadequate coverage. Maryland requires it at the same limits as your liability unless you reject it in writing.
