In Maryland, if you are pulled over by a law enforcement agent there are essentially two categories of citations that could be coming your way. Both will set you back a few dollars and carry points that will affect your driving record. Of course, points against your license will trigger adverse repercussions on your insurance rates.

Check Your Driving Record

Payable

These types of citations represent the majority of infractions written out in the state. You will be handed out this type of ticket for such wrongdoings as speeding, running a red light or stop sign, and all of the numerous one-point violations. The tickets generally only involve a fine and sending your money to the local district court to settle the matter.

Must Appear

If you are in a situation where a "must appear" citation is the end result, you may find yourself in handcuffs rather than signing a paper ticket and being on your way. This class of ticket is for such infractions that straddle the line of civil and criminal offenses.

They include the likes of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs, fleeing the scene of an accident, hit and run, and driving with a suspended license. The "must appear" means you're going to trial, which in most situations necessitates you tracking down a good lawyer.

All tickets are handled by the district courts rather than the MVA. However, the MVA does manage the point system. Thus, if the charge against you holds (i.e., you plead guilty or draw a negative verdict), the court will notify the MVA and your driving record will be modified.

Find more ticket-related information at Tickets & Traffic School, Traffic Schools, Defensive Driving, Suspended License, and Paying Your Traffic Ticket on this site.