No, radar detectors are illegal for all vehicles operating on Maryland roads, including private passenger cars, as per Transportation Article §21-1118. The Maryland State Police enforce this ban, and violations may incur fines up to $530 under local traffic ordinances.
Key Regulations for Radar Detectors in Maryland
- Statewide Ban: Transportation Article §21-1118 explicitly prohibits the use or possession of radar detectors in any vehicle on Maryland roadways, with no exemptions for commercial or out-of-state drivers.
- Enforcement by MSP: The Maryland State Police actively monitor compliance, particularly on I-95 and I-495 corridors, where speed enforcement is prioritized.
- Penalties: First-time offenders face fines up to $530, while repeat violations may result in higher penalties or license points under local traffic court rulings.
Note: While passive GPS-based warning systems (e.g., Waze alerts) remain legal, devices actively detecting police radar signals violate state law. Local jurisdictions, including Montgomery County, have reinforced enforcement through automated speed cameras, further reducing loopholes. Compliance shifts in 2026 may introduce stricter penalties, aligning with federal highway safety initiatives.