The Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) issued year-end reminders on December 29, 2025, encouraging residents to prioritize roadway safety and utilize convenient services as the new year begins.
MVA Administrator Chrissy Nizer, who also serves as Governor Wes Moore’s Highway Safety Representative, emphasized the importance of safe practices and customer-focused tools. “We want all Marylanders to be safe, follow the rules of the road and take full advantage of the convenient services we provide,” Nizer said. “We wish everyone a happy and healthy New Year and look forward to continuing to serve Marylanders with Premier Customer Service in 2026.”
The agency highlighted seven key areas for residents to focus on in 2026.
Drive safe in 2026 by driving sober, eliminating distractions such as phones, buckling up every trip, and obeying speed limits, particularly in work zones and during winter weather when conditions change rapidly. The MVA stresses that every driver holds responsibility for their own safety and that of others on the road.
A myMVA account saves time by enabling more than 60 transactions online or via mobile devices. Customers can renew licenses or registrations, update personal information, and handle other tasks seamlessly at mva.maryland.gov/online-services.
Maryland Mobile ID provides a secure digital option for verifying age and identity through Apple, Google, or Samsung Wallet. Enrollment allows use at locations including BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport, Merriweather Post Pavilion, Camden Yards, and MVA self-service kiosks. The program, available since its initial launch and expanded in recent years, requires a valid physical credential for setup and emphasizes privacy through encrypted data. Users should carry physical IDs as backups, since acceptance varies by venue.
Routine checks for vehicle recalls ensure safety and proper function. Residents can search their vehicle identification number (VIN) at NHTSA.gov/Recalls to identify open issues and address them promptly to prevent breakdowns or crashes.
Protect young passengers by selecting the correct car seat or booster based on the child’s age, height, and weight. Resources at ZeroDeathsMD.gov guide proper selection, installation, and use, which significantly reduce injury risks in crashes.
Maryland law requires residents to register vehicles with the MVA and display both front and rear license plates. Operating without valid registration constitutes a criminal misdemeanor and may result in penalties. Current registration safeguards drivers, passengers, and other road users.
The MVA offers a voluntary butterfly symbol on driver’s licenses, ID cards, and moped permits for individuals with hidden disabilities, along with a blue card for those with developmental disabilities. Both are provided at no cost to assist first responders in recognizing potential communication challenges or accommodation needs.
All MVA branch offices and Vehicle Emission Inspection Program (VEIP) stations will close on Thursday, January 1, 2026, for New Year’s Day and reopen on Friday, January 2, 2026. Self-service VEIP kiosks, myMVA online services, and 24-hour kiosks remain available during the holiday.
These reminders align with the MVA’s ongoing commitment to the Zero Deaths Maryland initiative, which promotes resources across topics like distracted driving, impaired driving, seat belt use, and child passenger safety. Southern Maryland residents in counties such as Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s can access nearby MVA branches or online options for efficient service while adhering to these safety guidelines. The agency’s focus on education and convenience supports year-round efforts to reduce crashes and enhance mobility across the state.