DUI Checkpoints in Maryland

CountyCityLocationDate
MontgomeryDUI Check Point at an undisclosed locationThursday, July 3, 2025
CharlesLa PlataLa Plata Police will hold a multi-agency Sobriety Checkpoint in La Plata.Thursday, April 24, 2025,
CharlesLa PlataDUI/driver’s license checkpoint at an undisclosed locationFriday, March 21, 2025
Montgomery CountyNOT AVAILABLESobriety checkpoint at Undisclosed location. The exact location of the checkpoint will not be disclosed in advanceSaturday, December 21, 2024, Beginning at approximately 10 PM to Midnight
WorcesterWorcester CountySobriety checkpoint in Worcester CountyThursday Dec. 12, to Friday, Dec. 13, 2024

Top DUI Checkpoint Locations in Maryland: A Detailed Guide

Maryland law enforcement agencies conduct DUI checkpoints throughout the state to ensure public safety and deter impaired driving. These checkpoints are often set up in areas with a high incidence of DUI-related accidents or where past data suggests increased risk. Below is a detailed breakdown of some of the most common locations where DUI checkpoints are frequently conducted in Maryland.

1. Baltimore City and Surrounding Areas

Baltimore, being the most populous city in Maryland, frequently sees DUI enforcement efforts.

  • Northern Parkway and York Road: This busy intersection sees a high volume of nightlife and traffic, making it a strategic spot for DUI checks.

  • Pulaski Highway (U.S. Route 40): This major corridor runs east-west through Baltimore and is commonly targeted for enforcement due to high speeds and dense traffic.

  • I-83 Jones Falls Expressway: A major north-south route into the city, checkpoints are often placed at off-ramps, especially near downtown and the Hampden area.

2. Montgomery County

As one of the most populous counties, Montgomery sees regular DUI operations, especially on weekends.

  • Rockville Pike (Route 355): This major thoroughfare has a mix of residential, commercial, and entertainment venues.

  • Georgia Avenue (Route 97): A common location for DUI patrols, especially near Wheaton and Silver Spring.

  • Connecticut Avenue (Route 185): Checkpoints here are common during holidays and long weekends.

3. Prince George’s County

PG County is another hotspot for DUI checkpoints due to its proximity to Washington, D.C.

  • Central Avenue (Route 214): Known for its nightlife and traffic congestion, this road is often monitored.

  • Marlboro Pike and Pennsylvania Avenue (Route 4): Major state highways in the county are frequently used for DUI enforcement.

  • Route 202 (Landover Road): Heavy traffic and sporting events in the area often lead to checkpoint setups.

4. Frederick County

With a growing population and increasing traffic, DUI enforcement is active here.

  • Interstate 70 & Route 355: These corridors connect the county to Baltimore and Washington, D.C., and often see weekend checkpoints.

  • West Patrick Street and Monocacy Boulevard: Located near downtown Frederick, known for bars and breweries.

5. Anne Arundel County

Home to Annapolis, the state capital, this county also has busy routes where checkpoints are frequently conducted.

  • Route 50 (John Hanson Highway): A major east-west route connecting Washington, D.C., and the Eastern Shore, especially monitored near the Bay Bridge.

  • Ritchie Highway (Route 2): Runs through several high-traffic areas like Glen Burnie and Severna Park.

  • Forest Drive in Annapolis: A local hub for restaurants and nightlife.

6. Howard County

A centrally located county known for commuter traffic and suburban nightlife.

  • Route 40 (Baltimore National Pike): This corridor is a frequent DUI checkpoint site, especially near Ellicott City.

  • Route 32 and Route 29 Intersections: Common locations for both stationary checkpoints and roving patrols.

7. Harford County

Located northeast of Baltimore, with several hotspots for enforcement.

  • Bel Air Road (Route 1): Often used for DUI checks near the town of Bel Air.

  • Route 24 and Route 7: Targeted due to weekend travel and local events.

8. Charles County

This southern Maryland county sees enforcement around key travel routes.

  • Route 301 (Crain Highway): Checkpoints are frequently placed near La Plata and Waldorf.

  • Route 5 and Mattawoman Beantown Road: Common DUI checkpoint areas especially during holiday travel periods.

9. Wicomico and Worcester Counties (Eastern Shore)

These counties become active DUI enforcement zones during summer months due to beach traffic.

  • U.S. Route 50: Major corridor to Ocean City, checkpoints increase during weekends and beach season.

  • Route 113 and Route 90: Access roads to coastal areas often have surprise sobriety checks.

10. Cecil County

As a border county with Pennsylvania and Delaware, Cecil County sees law enforcement coordination from multiple jurisdictions.

  • Route 40 and I-95 Interchanges: Frequently monitored due to interstate travel and truck traffic.

  • North East and Elkton Areas: DUI checkpoints are common in towns along major travel routes.

Why Knowing These Locations Matters

Understanding where DUI checkpoints are commonly set up can help you make safer travel plans and avoid unnecessary legal trouble. Most importantly, it serves as a reminder to never drink and drive. Even one drink can impair your ability to drive safely. Plan ahead—use a designated driver, call a rideshare, or stay where you are if you’ve been drinking.