Trucking Regulations in Maryland
Complete guide to weight limits, speed limits, permits, chain laws, and special rules for commercial truck drivers operating in Maryland.
Max Gross Weight
80,000 lbs
Truck Speed Limit
65 mph on I-95 urban sections
Diesel Tax
$0.417 per gallon diesel + federal
Weight & Size Limits in Maryland
| Measurement | Limit |
|---|---|
| Max Gross Vehicle Weight | 80,000 lbs |
| Max Axle Weight | 20,000 lbs single axle, 34,000 lbs tandem |
| Max Trailer Length | 53 ft trailer |
| Max Width | 102 inches |
| Max Height | 13'6" |
Speed Limits for Trucks in Maryland
Rural Interstate
70 mph
Urban Interstate
55 mph
Truck-Specific
65 mph on I-95 urban sections
Fuel Tax & Tolls in Maryland
Diesel Fuel Tax
$0.417 per gallon diesel + federal
Toll Roads & Bridges
Extensive tolling: I-95 Fort McHenry and Baltimore Harbor tunnels, Bay Bridge (US-50), JFK Memorial Highway (I-95), ICC (MD-200). E-ZPass required for most facilities. Truck tolls $6-48 depending on facility.
Chain Laws & Weather Requirements
No chain law. Western Maryland mountain roads can have winter weather.
Oversize & Overweight Permits
Maryland SHA permits. Baltimore metro has strict routing for oversize loads. Low bridges and tunnels require careful planning.
Port of Entry & Weigh Stations
Weigh stations on I-95, I-70, I-81, and I-68. Maryland State Police operate commercial vehicle enforcement.
Special Rules for Maryland
Hazmat Route Restrictions
Hazmat prohibited in Baltimore tunnels (Fort McHenry and Harbor). Hazmat loads must use I-695 bypass around Baltimore. Designated routes through suburban DC area. Bay Bridge restricts certain hazmat classes.
Rest Area & Parking Rules
Rest areas and welcome centers have limited truck parking. I-95 corridor parking is extremely limited. Maryland follows regional anti-idling guidelines.
DOT Inspection Frequency
High. Maryland State Police commercial vehicle enforcement is active, particularly on I-95, I-70, and at tunnel approaches.
Looking for Trucking Jobs in Maryland?
Browse CDL driver positions and connect with carriers operating in Maryland.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland Trucking Regulations
What are the toll costs for trucks in Maryland?
Maryland has extensive tolling with costs varying by facility. The Fort McHenry Tunnel costs about $48 for a 5-axle truck, I-95 JFK Highway tolls are approximately $8-12, and the Bay Bridge (US-50) is about $24. E-ZPass is required at most facilities and offers discounted rates. Total transit costs through Maryland can exceed $70.
Can hazmat loads use Baltimore tunnels?
No, hazmat placarded vehicles are prohibited in both the Fort McHenry Tunnel and Baltimore Harbor Tunnel. Hazmat loads must use the I-695 beltway to bypass Baltimore. This significantly impacts routing for hazmat carriers using the I-95 corridor through Maryland.
What impact does the Port of Baltimore have on trucking?
The Port of Baltimore is a major vehicle import port and container facility that generates significant drayage traffic. The port connects to I-95 and I-695 for regional distribution. Truck congestion around port terminals can be significant during peak hours.
How congested is I-95 through Maryland?
I-95 through the Baltimore-Washington corridor is one of the most congested truck routes in the US. Peak hour delays can add 2-3 hours to transit times. Many carriers schedule Baltimore area deliveries during off-peak hours (night or early morning) to avoid congestion.
What is Maryland's diesel fuel tax?
Maryland charges $0.417 per gallon diesel tax at the state level, plus federal tax. Combined with expensive toll facilities, Maryland is one of the costliest states for trucking operations in the Northeast corridor.