Maryland DUI Checkpoints for the Fourth of July Weekend

The Fourth of July is one of the biggest travel holidays of the year, and this year’s holiday is setting new records due to this being the nation’s 250th-anniversary, and FIFA World Cup parties. This surge in Fourth of July celebrations will make roads especially crowded in Lanham, Rockville, Waldorf, Frederick, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Charles County, St. Mary’s County, Anne Arundel County, Calvert County, and other cities throughout Maryland. Maryland State Troopers, including members of the SPIDRE Team, arrested 108 drivers on suspicion of DUI, and issued more than 6,600 citations and warnings during July 4–6, 2025.

If you were arrested on suspicion of DUI or issued a citation, contact our Maryland DUI attorneys at Alpert Schreyer, LLC 24/7 by calling us at (301) 720-1309 or filling out our online form. During your consultation we will:

• Go through what happened in detail (e.g. why you were stopped, whether you took a breath, blood, or field sobriety test, your BAC level, what the officer said and if your rights were explained).
• Review any documents or evidence you have such as the arrest report or citation, court notices, or test results.
• Go over challenges or weaknesses in the case.
• Explain the charges and potential penalties (e.g. fines, jail time, probation, license consequences, and impacts to your record).
• Explain the legal process and next steps.

Where to Expect DUI Checkpoints in Maryland During Fourth of July Weekend

The Fourth of July is one of Maryland’s busiest DUI enforcement periods. During the holiday weekend, Maryland State Police and local law enforcement agencies increase DUI checkpoints and patrol areas because more people drive to parties, more people drink, and more people get behind the wheel afterward. Below are common checkpoint areas.

• Baltimore City⎯Fells Point, Federal Hill, Canton, and Inner Harbor corridors.
• Anne Arundel County⎯Downtown Annapolis exits, Route 2, and the BWI corridor.
• Montgomery County⎯Bethesda, Silver Spring, and Rockville entertainment districts.
• Prince George’s County⎯The Route 1 corridor near College Park and the National Harbor area.
• Major highways, including I-95, I-70, I-83, I-495 (Capital Beltway), US-50, and MD-295 (Baltimore-Washington Parkway).
• Fireworks displays and festivals.
• Popular restaurants and bars.
• Beach routes going to and from the Eastern Shore and Ocean City.

What Are Your Constitutional Rights at a DUI Checkpoint?

Knowing your rights if you’re stopped at a DUI checkpoint can help you avoid mistakes that could later harm your case.

Do You Have to Stop at a DUI Checkpoint in Maryland?

If you’re directed by a law enforcement officer into a DUI checkpoint in Maryland, you’re required to stop. DUI checkpoints are legal in Maryland under U.S. Supreme Court precedent, which permits brief stops for impaired-driving enforcement, and are carried out in the state under strict constitutional guidelines. Refusing to stop or attempting to flee is a separate offense and can also give police grounds to pursue you.

Maryland law requires drivers to carry a valid license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance, and to present them upon request during a lawful traffic stop or DUI checkpoint.

Do You Have to Say Anything at a DUI Checkpoint in Maryland?

At a Maryland DUI checkpoint, drivers must stop when directed, but you have the right to remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney, decline Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs), and a roadside Preliminary Breath Test (PBT). Refusing a post-arrest chemical test in Maryland results in administrative penalties under the state’s implied consent law, separate from any criminal DUI charges. A first refusal typically leads to a 270-day license suspension, while a second or subsequent refusal generally results in a 2-year suspension.

What Should You Do if You’re Arrested at a DUI Checkpoint in Maryland?

If you’re arrested at a DUI checkpoint in Maryland, knowing the process can help you avoid escalating the situation or accidentally say anything that incriminates you.

Stay Calm

At a DUI checkpoint, officers are allowed to briefly detain drivers to check for impairment. If you’re directed to pull over:

• Stay calm and keep your hands where the officer can see them.
• Provide your license, registration, and insurance when asked.
• Be cooperative and refrain from arguing.

You Have the Right to Remain Silent

You are legally allowed to remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney before answering questions. You don’t have to explain anything to the officers. Anything you say can still be used later in court.

If You’re Arrested

If the officer arrests you for suspected DUI:

• You’ll be handcuffed and transported to a station or processing center.
• Your vehicle may be towed, depending on circumstances.
• You’ll be asked to take a chemical test (breath or blood) if you refuse to take one at the scene.

What Happens After You’re Released

After you’ve been processed on suspicion of DUI, you may be:

• Released with charges pending.
• Given a court date.
• Facing both a criminal case and licensing suspension by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration.

Do You Need a Lawyer If You’re Arrested for a DUI in Maryland?

If you’re arrested for DUI, you can be facing both a criminal case and an administrative license penalty by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration. The MVA can suspend your license right away, especially if you fail or refuse a chemical test.

Attorney Andrew Alpert, is the only National College for DUI Defense (NCDD) board-certified DUI defense lawyer in Maryland, and is an expert in Field Sobriety Testing (FST), which means we know how to thoroughly analyze police reports, see whether FSTs were administered improperly, and challenge the arresting officer’s initial roadside assessments.

Contact Alpert Schreyer, LLC 24/7 for a free consultation by calling us (301) 298-3306 or filling out our online form. We have offices in Waldorf, Rockville, Lanham, and Frederick, and help all clients in Maryland.

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