Everything You Need to Know About a First-Time DUI in Maryland

 Posted on February 09, 2026 in DUI / DWI

If you are facing a first-time DUI charge in Maryland in 2026, you no doubt have many questions about what happens next. You probably already know that the consequences of a DUI conviction can affect your driver's license, your insurance rates, and even your job. But what exactly are the penalties for a first-time DUI in Maryland? What happens after you get arrested? Will you have to get an ignition interlock device? 

Even for a first offense, the penalties can be harsh. Having a clear understanding of what you are facing will help, but the best choice you can make right now is to work with an experienced, aggressive Harford County DUI/DWI defense attorney. 

What Are the Penalties for a First-Time DUI in Maryland?

Maryland takes drunk driving seriously. According to the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration, there were over 14,000 DUI arrests in Maryland in recent years. 

Maryland law divides drunk driving offenses into two categories. Under Maryland Transportation Article Section 21-902, a person commits DUI when they drive with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or higher. There is also a lesser charge called DWI, which applies when alcohol impairs your ability to drive even if your BAC is below the legal limit.

For a first-time DUI conviction, the penalties can include up to one year in jail and fines up to $1,200. For a first-time DWI, the penalties are slightly less severe, with up to 60 days in jail and fines up to $500. These are the maximum penalties, and many first-time offenders do not receive jail time. 

License Suspension for First-Time DUI

Your driver's license will be affected even before you go to court. When you are arrested for DUI, the police officer will take your license and issue you a temporary license that is valid for 45 days. During this time, you have the right to request a hearing with the Motor Vehicle Administration to challenge the suspension. If you do not request a hearing or if you lose the hearing, your license will be suspended. For a first-time DUI, the administrative suspension is typically 180 days. 

Ignition Interlock Device Requirement

Maryland law requires most first-time DUI offenders to participate in the Ignition Interlock Program if they want to keep driving. An ignition interlock device is a breath test machine installed in your car. You must blow into the device before the car will start, and the device records your BAC. If your BAC is above a set limit, the car will not start.

What Happens After You Get Arrested for DUI in Maryland?

After your arrest, you will likely be taken to the police station for booking and to have your BAC tested. You may be asked to take a breath test. Under Maryland's implied consent law, you automatically consent to chemical testing when you drive in Maryland. If you refuse the test, your license will be suspended for 270 days for a first offense, which is longer than if you had taken the test and failed.

Once you are released from custody, you will receive a court date. This is usually several weeks after your arrest. You should use this time wisely. Meeting with a defense lawyer as soon as possible gives you the best chance to build a strong defense and explore your options.

Can You Get a First-Time DUI Dismissed in Maryland?

Every DUI case is different, and some have better chances of dismissal or reduction than others. Your attorney will look at your situation and see whether any common defenses might apply. 

For example, in some cases we can challenge whether a police officer had a valid reason to stop a vehicle in the first place. We might question the accuracy of the breathalyzer test or ask whether the field sobriety tests were done correctly. Sometimes, we discover that a client's rights were violated during an arrest.

Even if your case cannot be dismissed entirely, a reduction from DUI to DWI can make a significant difference in the penalties you face. An attorney who handles these cases regularly knows what to look for and how to challenge the evidence against you.

Maryland also offers a Probation Before Judgment option in some cases. This means you complete probation successfully and the conviction is not entered on your record. However, this option is not available to everyone, and there are strict rules about when it can be used. Having someone who understands these rules can help you determine if you qualify.

Call a Harford County, MD DUI Lawyer Today

If you are facing a first-time DUI charge in Maryland, you need someone on your side who understands the system and knows how to fight for your rights. 

At Baltimore Legal Services, we have helped over 10,000 clients navigate the criminal justice system with over 15 years of legal experience. We offer custom flat fees so you know exactly what your defense will cost, and we are available 24/7 for new clients. Call Baltimore Legal Services at 858-523-8423 today to talk about your case with a Northern Baltimore County DUI defense attorney.