Mixed Deck — All MD DMV Topics Flashcards

How should you interact with school buses that have flashing red lights?

Answer: Stop and remain stopped until the lights stop flashing and the stop arm is retracted

When a school bus displays flashing red lights and a stop arm, all traffic in both directions (unless on a divided highway) must stop until the signals are deactivated.

What is an SR-22 filing?

Answer: A certificate of financial responsibility required after serious traffic violations like DUI

An SR-22 is a form filed by your insurance company with the state certifying that you carry the required minimum insurance, typically required after DUI, driving without insurance, or multiple violations.

What distance must you maintain when passing a cyclist on the road?

Answer: At least 3 feet of clearance

Most states require drivers to maintain at least 3 feet of clearance when passing a cyclist to ensure their safety.

What is hydroplaning and how do you recover from it?

Answer: Tires losing contact with the road due to water; ease off the gas and steer straight

Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water prevents tire contact with the road. To recover, ease off the accelerator, avoid braking, and steer straight until traction returns.

How far must you park from an intersection?

Answer: At least 20 feet from a crosswalk

You must park at least 20 feet from a crosswalk at an intersection to maintain visibility for both drivers and pedestrians.

What is uninsured motorist coverage?

Answer: Coverage that pays for your injuries when the at-fault driver has no insurance

Uninsured motorist coverage protects you when you are in an accident caused by a driver who has no liability insurance and cannot pay for your damages.

Why is it important to have an escape route while driving?

Answer: To have an alternative path available if a sudden hazard requires evasive action

Always maintaining an escape route — space to maneuver into if danger appears — gives you options beyond just braking when an emergency occurs.

If a driver receives a speeding ticket in Maryland, what is one potential consequence of not addressing the ticket?

Answer: Points will be added to the driver’s record and potential suspension of their license

Failing to address a speeding ticket in Maryland, either by paying the fine or contesting it, can lead to significant consequences. Points will be added to the driver’s record, which can contribute to license suspension if too many points accumulate. Additionally, it may result in increased insurance premiums.

What should you do when an emergency vehicle approaches with sirens and flashing lights?

Answer: Pull over to the right side of the road and stop

When an emergency vehicle approaches with lights and sirens, you must pull to the right edge of the road and stop until it passes.

How far must you park from a railroad crossing?

Answer: 50 feet

You must park at least 50 feet from a railroad crossing to ensure the area remains clear for trains and crossing vehicles.

What is the safe following distance for most driving conditions?

Answer: At least 3 seconds behind the vehicle ahead

The 3-second rule provides a safe following distance under normal conditions. Pick a fixed point and count 3 seconds after the vehicle ahead passes it.

During a dust storm or whiteout conditions, what should you do?

Answer: Pull completely off the road, stop, turn off lights, and wait

In zero-visibility conditions, pull completely off the road and stop. Turn off your lights so other drivers do not mistake them for lane markers and follow you off the road.

At a four-way stop, if two vehicles arrive at the same time from perpendicular directions, who goes first?

Answer: The vehicle on the right

When two vehicles arrive simultaneously at a four-way stop, the vehicle to the right has the right of way.

How can a Maryland resident access DMV services online?

Answer: Through the Maryland Vehicle Administration (MVA) website

Maryland residents can conveniently access a wide range of DMV services online through the official Maryland Vehicle Administration (MVA) website. This platform allows individuals to complete various transactions, such as renewing registrations, updating addresses, and scheduling appointments, from the comfort of their home. Utilizing the MVA website helps streamline processes and reduces the need for in-person visits.

In Maryland, who has the right of way at an uncontrolled intersection?

Answer: The vehicle that arrives first; if simultaneous, the vehicle on the right

At uncontrolled intersections in Maryland, the first vehicle to arrive has the right of way. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the vehicle on the right proceeds first.

What should you do when encountering a horse-drawn vehicle on the road?

Answer: Slow down, give extra space, and avoid honking or making loud noises

Horses can be startled by loud noises and sudden movements. Slow down, give ample room, and avoid actions that might spook the animal.

What should a driver do when approaching a flashing red traffic light?

Answer: Stop completely, then proceed when safe

A flashing red light must be treated the same as a STOP sign — come to a full stop, then proceed when safe.

What should you do if you lose your Maryland driver’s license and need a replacement?

Answer: Visit a Maryland DMV branch to apply for a replacement license

If a Maryland driver's license is lost or stolen, the driver must apply for a replacement. The most direct and common method is to visit a Maryland MVA (Motor Vehicle Administration) branch in person to apply for a duplicate license, providing necessary identification and paying the required fee.

What type of services are available through the MVA’s Customer Service Centers?

Answer: Driver's license and vehicle registration services

The Maryland Vehicle Administration (MVA) Customer Service Centers are the primary physical locations where residents can access essential services related to their driving privileges and vehicle ownership. These centers offer a comprehensive range of services, including obtaining or renewing driver's licenses, vehicle registrations, and title transfers. They serve as a vital point of contact for many administrative tasks.

Which of the following is NOT required when applying for a Maryland driver’s license for the first time?

Answer: Proof of vehicle insurance

When applying for a Maryland driver's license for the first time, applicants are required to provide proof of identity, their Social Security number, and proof of Maryland residency. While vehicle insurance is mandatory for registering a vehicle and operating it legally, it is not a prerequisite for the initial issuance of a driver's license itself.