Other License Info

Smooth Operator Program

Anyone that has ever endured one of the legendary traffic jams in the Baltimore/Washington DC mega metropolis is fully aware of the maddening congestion. As a matter of fact, the area is close on the bumper of Los Angeles for title of worst traffic in America. Next to the smog, that is the last thing any state or city would even want to compete against L.A. for.

Of course, ask any commuter and they just might tell you that it doesn't matter: a jam is a jam. And that means frustration. Frustration leads to one of the top concerns bearing down on motorists in the state: road rage. We have all dealt with the aggressive driver; maybe even some of us are a bit hostile on the road.

There you are, behind the wheel of a SUV that looks as mean as you feel, when you are running late and do not have time to stop for the three shots of espresso. So look out drivers, here you come, so get out of the way. Next thing you know, you are flying through traffic (at least you think you are), weaving in and out, getting right up against someone's bumper, honking the horn, screaming at everybody, and making all sorts of gestures to anybody that bothers to look your way.

Well, Maryland has set out to curb this behavior through an awareness and educational program called Smooth Operator. It is one thing to have a bad day on the road every once in a blue moon. But some drivers make an awful habit of causing chaos for the sense of power. Many have traits of an aggressive driver and do not even know it.

Much like seat belt and drinking and driving campaigns, the Smooth Operator program allows enforcement agencies to pool resources and go after aggressive drivers. If during one of these campaigns you are pulled over for speeding or running a red light, you just may have an added fine tacked on if the officer considers your actions aggressive.

The program offers tips on how to steer clear of being an aggressive driver and how to avoid one on the road. And if all else fails you can report aggressive drivers you encounter in traffic.

Alcohol and Drug Education Program

This three-hour class is required for drivers who have a license from another country, or those that have an Armed Forces license only. It is held at various area driving schools and treatment clinics in the state.

Fees for this service vary with the provider, but the maximum any company can charge is $35. The MVA also offers a new electronic means for completing the class at your leisure. Contact the department for details.

Driver_Wellness_and_Safety">Driver Wellness and Safety

The Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) goes to great lengths to promote safety on the roads. And considering the highways, byways, and streets of Maryland are some of the most congested in the country, it is definitely a crucial service. The division also understands that it is important for individuals to enjoy the privilege of driving regardless of health issues.

If there is any possibility to get you behind the wheel safely with a chronic issue, then the MVA will do it. If the division does deem that you are able to properly operate a vehicle the only thing you may encounter is a restriction on your license. This is simply to give law enforcement and division employees a heads-up to your condition.

Most drivers come into contact with this department because they wear corrective lenses. There are also certain illnesses and disorders that you need to report to the MVA.

On the safety side of things, this department of the MVA is also who you will deal with if you start collecting too many points against your driver license.

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