You face serious penalties, such as a hefty fine and six points on your driving record, if you are convicted of reckless driving in Maryland. You could also be required to complete a driver improvement program. It is essential to understand what this program is so that you comply with its requirements if doing so is a part of your sentence.
What Is the Maryland Driver Improvement Program?
The Maryland Driver Improvement Program (DIP) is a four to six-hour instructional program designed to rehabilitate drivers. You could be required to enroll in the program in the following circumstances:
- A District Court Judge referred you to the program, such as in a reckless driving or other serious traffic ticket case.
- You accumulated 5, 6, or 7 points on your driving record.
- You were convicted of or granted probation before judgment for a traffic violation, and you have a provisional license.
- An Administrative Law Judge in the Office of Administrative Hearings referred you to the program.
How Do You Enroll in a Driver Improvement Program?
If you must enroll in a driving improvement program, you will receive a letter from the Maryland Vehicle Administration (MVA). You must do the following:
- You should contact an approved DIP provider to enroll in the program and pay the fees for the program.
- You must attend all required classes and bring your referral letter with you.
- You must complete the program by the deadline listed in the top right corner of your referral letter from the MVA.
- Once you complete the classes, you will receive a certificate of completion. Your provider will also notify the MVA that you successfully completed the course.
What Happens If You Fail to Complete the Driver Improvement Program?
If you do not complete the DIV before the deadline stated in your referral letter, the MVA will suspend your driver’s license. You are required to surrender your license to a full-service MVA office. You can apply for a new license after you successfully complete the program.
Should you enroll in a Driver Improvement Program? You should not take this or other steps if you have been charged with reckless driving without first consulting with a skilled reckless driving lawyer. Start an online chat to schedule a free consultation with a member of our legal team to learn about our extensive experience in these cases and how we can assist you.
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