GLEN BURNIE, Md. (July 1, 2026) – As Marylanders celebrate America 250 parades and festivals across the State, the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration is reminding drivers the best way to celebrate is to plan for a safe and sober ride. Impaired driving is preventable and no celebration is worth risking a life. Before heading out, drivers are encouraged to designate a sober driver, use public transportation or a rideshare service or make plans to stay where they are celebrating.
“This summer, Marylanders have a unique opportunity to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary with family, friends and neighbors,” said Motor Vehicle Administrator Chrissy Nizer, who also serves as Governor Wes Moore’s Highway Safety Representative. “As you celebrate, please remember the responsibility that comes with getting behind the wheel. Always drive sober, drive the speed limit, eliminate distractions and always look twice for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists. Together we can make this historic celebration one that everyone remembers for the right reasons.”
Last July, 55 people were killed on Maryland roadways – the highest monthly traffic fatality total of the year. Every one of those tragedies was preventable. Whether traveling across town or across the state, motorists should make safety their top priority by planning ahead for a sober ride, obeying speed limits, buckling up, eliminating distractions and giving their full attention to the road ahead. Drivers should also use extra caution in neighborhoods and residential areas, where children may be walking, biking or unexpectedly entering the roadway while enjoying holiday celebrations.
Motor Vehicle Administration Branch Closures
In observance of Independence Day, the MVA will close all branch offices and Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP) stations on Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4, 2026, in alignment with the state holiday calendar. MVA branch offices and VEIP stations will resume normal operations on Monday, July 6, 2026.
Customers can schedule an appointment at an MVA branch or complete more than 60 transactions with an account with myMVA Online Services – anytime, anywhere and at their convenience. Customers can also use self-service VEIP kiosks,?which are available 24-hours each day, throughout the holiday weekend.
