BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) is reminding residents about important safety reminders and service updates as the new year approaches. These reminders aim to ensure the safety of all road users, whether they are driving, biking, or walking.

One major change taking effect on January 1, 2025, is a new tiered fine system for work zone speed violations. Penalties will increase based on the severity of the speeding violation, and double if workers are present. The MVA and State Highway Administration urge motorists to be cautious and observe speed limits in work zones.

In other safety news, the MVA encourages Marylanders to celebrate responsibly throughout the holiday season and beyond. This includes always buckling up, sharing the road, planning ahead, and slowing down.

“We want everyone to arrive safely at their destination, whether walking, biking or driving,” said MVA Administrator Chrissy Nizer, who also serves as Governor Wes Moore’s Highway Safety Representative. “Each of us have a responsibility to make smart and cautious decisions on the road and following these resolutions are a great way to keep yourself and others safe.”

Beyond safety reminders, the MVA also announced several updates and initiatives:

• Mobile ID Expansion: Mobile IDs are now accepted for age verification for alcohol purchases at BWI Airport restaurants after passing through TSA checkpoints.
• Bay Plate and Agricultural Plate Support: The Bay Plate supports the Chesapeake Bay Trust, and the Agricultural Plate supports the Maryland Agricultural Education Foundation. The Bay Plate program directly supports the Chesapeake Bay Trust’s distribution of grants for environmental education and watershed restoration in the Chesapeake and Coastal Bays.
• Free Catalytic Converter Labels: To combat catalytic converter theft, the MVA, in partnership with the Maryland Vehicle Theft Prevention Council, is offering free catalytic converter labels to deter thieves.
• myMVA Online Services: The MVA encourages residents to create a myMVA account for convenient access to over 60 online transactions, including REAL ID verification. myMVA users can verify their REAL ID status and be REAL ID ready before the May 7, 2025 REAL ID deadline.
• Customer Accessibility Coordinators: To enhance customer service for individuals with disabilities, the MVA has introduced Customer Accessibility Coordinators at branch locations. Marylanders can request accommodations using ContactMVA on their myMVA account or by contacting [email protected].
• Expanded One-Stop-Shop Services: The MVA’s partnership with the Maryland Department of Health has expanded to include printing death certificates at select MVA branches, further streamlining title transfer processes.

For more information on these initiatives and tips for staying safe on Maryland roads, visit https://www.ZeroDeathsMD.gov.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.

Photo via Pixabay