Maryland Auto Insurance Requirements, Costs & Coverage Guide 2026
✓ Updated February 2026 – Based on Real Maryland Quotes
Maryland Auto Insurance Requirements & Costs
Complete guide to Maryland car insurance requirements, average rates, and coverage options with current 2026 data. We’re a licensed insurance broker serving 34 states, not an insurance carrier—we help you compare multiple providers to find the best rates.
Data Source: All rates and statistics on this page are based on real first-party auto insurance quotes collected by our licensed agents in Maryland. This is not national average data or advertised rates—these numbers reflect actual consumer quote activity in Maryland during 2026.
Average Monthly Rate in MD
$178
Based on real quotes from our licensed agents across Maryland
Liability vs Full Coverage
$72 vs $265
Wide spread: National General shows $72 liability vs $265 full coverage
Price Range Across Carriers
$58-$285
391% spread from GAINSCO ($58) to Dairyland ($285)—shop around!
Maryland law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance coverage. Understanding these requirements is essential for legal compliance and financial protection.
Medical expenses and lost wages for one person injured in an accident you cause
Bodily Injury (per accident)
$60,000
Total medical expenses and lost wages for all people injured in an accident you cause
Property Damage
$15,000
Damage to another person’s vehicle or property in an accident you cause
Uninsured Motorist (per person)
$30,000
Protection when hit by uninsured driver (mandatory in Maryland)
Uninsured Motorist (per accident)
$60,000
Total protection for all injuries from uninsured driver
Uninsured Motorist Property Damage
$15,000
Property damage from uninsured motorist
Important: These are legal minimums. Most drivers benefit from higher coverage limits to protect against serious accidents. Consider 50/100/50 or 100/300/100 for better protection.
Optional but Recommended Coverage
While not legally required, these coverages provide crucial protection:
Collision: Covers damage to your vehicle from accidents, regardless of fault
Source: A Plus Insurance analysis of first party insurance quotes collected by licensed agents across multiple U.S. states. Data reflects real consumer quote activity and pricing for auto insurance, home insurance, and related policies, not advertised rates or national averages.
Evidence (records used)
This table lists underlying records used for the chart above.
record_id
call_id
call_date
state
city
zip
year
make
model
age
sex
marital
coverage
carrier
monthly
violations
accidents
dui
No matching records yet.
How Violations & Risk Factors Affect Your Maryland Rates
Your driving record and risk profile significantly impact insurance costs in Maryland. Understanding these factors helps you anticipate rate changes and make informed decisions.
Understanding SR-22 Insurance in Maryland
An SR-22 is not insurance itself, but a certificate of financial responsibility filed by your insurance company with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration. You may need an SR-22 if you have:
DUI or DWI conviction
Multiple traffic violations in a short period
At-fault accident without insurance
License suspension or revocation
Conviction for driving without insurance
SR-22 Cost Impact: Drivers requiring SR-22 certification typically pay 50-80% more for auto insurance. The SR-22 filing itself costs $15-50, but the underlying violation causes the major rate increase. SR-22 is usually required for 3 years in Maryland.
Need SR-22 insurance? Learn more about SR-22 insurance in Maryland and get quotes from providers who specialize in high-risk coverage.
How DUI Affects Your Maryland Insurance Rates
A DUI conviction has severe consequences for auto insurance in Maryland:
Rate Increase: Average increase of 60-100% for 3-5 years
SR-22 Requirement: Mandatory filing for minimum 3 years
Limited Options: Many standard insurers will not cover DUI drivers
Long-term Impact: DUI stays on your record for 5 years in Maryland
After a DUI, you’ll need to obtain coverage from high-risk or non-standard insurance providers. Rates gradually decrease as time passes without additional violations, but expect elevated premiums for several years.
Common Traffic Violations and Rate Impacts in Maryland
Violation Type
Typical Rate Increase
Duration of Impact
Speeding (15+ mph over)
20-30%
3 years
At-fault accident
30-50%
3-5 years
Reckless driving
40-70%
3-5 years
DUI/DWI
60-100%
5-10 years
Driving without insurance
50-80%
3 years
Good News: Maintaining a clean driving record for 3-5 years can significantly reduce rates. Many insurers offer accident forgiveness and safe driver discounts.
Why Maryland Auto Insurance Rates Change Over Time
Auto insurance rates in Maryland fluctuate based on multiple factors. Understanding what drives these changes helps you make informed decisions about when to shop for coverage and how to manage your insurance costs effectively.
Key Factors That Affect Your Maryland Insurance Rates
Inflation and Repair Costs: Vehicle repair costs and medical expenses increase annually, driving up premiums
Accident Frequency: Higher accident rates in your area lead to increased premiums
Market Competition: New insurers entering Maryland or existing ones adjusting pricing strategies
Your Personal Profile: As your driving record, age, and credit change, your rates adjust accordingly
Baltimore/DC Metro Impact: Urban areas see higher rates due to traffic density and theft
Best Practice: Compare quotes from at least 3-5 insurance providers every 6-12 months. The average Maryland driver who shops around saves $400+ annually. Your current insurer may gradually increase rates, banking on you not noticing. Shopping around ensures competitive pricing. Learn more about Progressive insurance in Maryland and other top carriers.
Important: Even a single day without insurance can have serious consequences in Maryland. If your policy lapses, you face fines up to $1,000, potential SR-22 requirements, and significantly higher rates when you reinstate coverage.
Source: A Plus Insurance analysis of first party insurance quotes collected by licensed agents across multiple U.S. states. Data reflects real consumer quote activity and pricing for auto insurance, home insurance, and related policies, not advertised rates or national averages.
Evidence (records used)
This table lists underlying records used for the chart above.
record_id
call_id
call_date
state
city
zip
year
make
model
age
sex
marital
coverage
carrier
monthly
violations
accidents
dui
No matching records yet.
Cheapest auto insurance companies
Filters: Filters: State MD
Source ... A Plus Insurance Quote Dataset
No matching records yet.
Source: A Plus Insurance analysis of first party insurance quotes collected by licensed agents across multiple U.S. states. Data reflects real consumer quote activity and pricing for auto insurance, home insurance, and related policies, not advertised rates or national averages.
Evidence (records used)
This table lists underlying records used for the chart above.
record_id
call_id
call_date
state
city
zip
year
make
model
age
sex
marital
coverage
carrier
monthly
violations
accidents
dui
No matching records yet.
Driver age average monthly by area
Filters: Filters: State MD
Source ... A Plus Insurance Quote Dataset
No matching records yet.
Source: A Plus Insurance analysis of first party insurance quotes collected by licensed agents across multiple U.S. states. Data reflects real consumer quote activity and pricing for auto insurance, home insurance, and related policies, not advertised rates or national averages.
Evidence (records used)
This table lists underlying records used for the chart above.
record_id
call_id
call_date
state
city
zip
year
make
model
age
sex
marital
coverage
carrier
monthly
violations
accidents
dui
No matching records yet.
Driver sex average monthly by area
Filters: Filters: State MD
Source ... A Plus Insurance Quote Dataset
No matching records yet.
Source: A Plus Insurance analysis of first party insurance quotes collected by licensed agents across multiple U.S. states. Data reflects real consumer quote activity and pricing for auto insurance, home insurance, and related policies, not advertised rates or national averages.
Evidence (records used)
This table lists underlying records used for the chart above.
record_id
call_id
call_date
state
city
zip
year
make
model
age
sex
marital
coverage
carrier
monthly
violations
accidents
dui
No matching records yet.
Auto Insurance Coverage Across Maryland Counties
Find detailed auto insurance information, rates, and requirements specific to your Maryland county.
Very pleasant experience. Excellent customer service from Alexis. Things were made simple for me and I got the best rate possible! Super affordable!
read moreread less
Aly M.
9/08/2025
Great customer service
read moreread less
Kathy D.
10/23/2025
Hannah is hands-down, the Best! She help me get car insurance quick and easy an a very good price!! 10/10
read moreread less
michael m.
5/15/2025
Very helpful!! Very kind
read moreread less
Ryan T.
1/23/2026
Ruby Finley is an asset to your company. She was very helpful and knowledgeable. She was patient as well.
read moreread less
Delvikio F.
9/04/2025
A Plus is real fast at getting you a quot and getting you started with non oweners insurance, and the price is right, thank you A Plus.
read moreread less
Thomasina C.
1/08/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the minimum auto insurance requirements in Maryland?
Maryland requires minimum liability coverage of 30/60/15: $30,000 per person for bodily injury, $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 for property damage. Maryland also requires uninsured motorist coverage at the same limits. This is the legal minimum to drive in Maryland, though most financial advisors recommend higher limits for better protection.
How much does auto insurance cost in Maryland?
Auto insurance costs in Maryland vary widely based on location, driving record, age, vehicle, and coverage level. On average, liability-only coverage costs significantly less than full coverage. Urban areas like Baltimore and the DC suburbs typically have higher rates than rural counties due to accident frequency and theft rates. The best way to find your actual cost is to compare quotes from multiple providers.
Is Maryland a no-fault insurance state?
No, Maryland is an at-fault state. This means the driver who causes an accident is responsible for damages through their liability insurance. The at-fault driver’s insurance pays for injuries and property damage to other parties. This is why adequate liability coverage is crucial in Maryland.
What happens if I get caught driving without insurance in Maryland?
Driving without insurance in Maryland results in serious penalties: fines up to $1,000, suspension of your driver’s license and vehicle registration for up to one year, potential SR-22 requirement for future coverage, and significantly higher insurance rates when you reinstate coverage. Maryland takes uninsured driving very seriously, and penalties increase for repeat offenses.
Do I need SR-22 insurance in Maryland?
You need SR-22 insurance in Maryland if you’ve had a DUI/DWI, multiple serious traffic violations, an at-fault accident without insurance, or your license was suspended or revoked. The SR-22 is a certificate your insurance company files with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration proving you carry the required minimum coverage. It’s typically required for 3 years and increases your insurance rates by 50-80%.
How does a DUI affect my car insurance rates in Maryland?
A DUI in Maryland typically increases your insurance rates by 60-100% and remains on your driving record for 5 years. You’ll need to file an SR-22 for at least 3 years, and many standard insurance companies won’t cover you, forcing you to seek high-risk insurers. Rates gradually decrease over time if you maintain a clean record, but expect elevated premiums for 5-10 years.
Should I get more than the minimum coverage in Maryland?
Yes, most insurance experts recommend purchasing more than Maryland’s minimum 30/60/15 coverage. These minimums may not cover all damages in a serious accident, leaving you personally liable for the difference. Consider at least 50/100/50 or 100/300/100 coverage, plus comprehensive and collision, to protect your assets. The additional cost is usually modest compared to the increased protection.
How often should I shop for new car insurance rates in Maryland?
You should compare car insurance quotes every 6-12 months, even if you’re satisfied with your current provider. Insurance rates change frequently based on market conditions, and you may qualify for new discounts or find better rates elsewhere. Life changes like marriage, moving, or buying a home can also significantly affect your rates. Shopping around regularly can save Maryland drivers $400 or more annually.
Jayleen Ridgeway
Marketing Manager
Data-driven marketing strategist specializing in insurance rate analysis, pricing trends, and consumer insights derived from real-world first-party data.
With a background in SaaS technology, Jayleen leads all marketing and social media efforts while uncovering actionable trends from monthly, quarterly, and yearly insurance data.
Related Topics: Maryland auto insurance, car insurance Maryland, MD insurance rates, cheap car insurance Maryland, affordable auto insurance MD, Maryland liability insurance, SR22 insurance Maryland, Maryland car insurance requirements, auto insurance costs Maryland, best car insurance MD, Maryland insurance quotes, full coverage MD, liability only Maryland, MD insurance companies, auto insurance Maryland online, Baltimore car insurance, Annapolis auto insurance, Rockville insurance rates, Silver Spring car insurance, Frederick insurance
Ready to Compare Maryland Auto Insurance Rates?
Get personalized quotes from top-rated insurance providers in minutes