Maryland § 10-125

Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 10-125, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 10-125.

    (a)    (1)    Except as otherwise provided in subsection (c) of this section, an occupant of a motor vehicle may not possess an open container that contains any amount of an alcoholic beverage in a passenger area of a motor vehicle on a highway.

        (2)    A driver of a motor vehicle may not be subject to prosecution for a violation of this subsection based solely on possession of an open container that contains any amount of an alcoholic beverage by another occupant of the motor vehicle.

    (b)    (1)    This subsection does not apply to the driver of a motor vehicle.

        (2)    Except as otherwise provided in subsection (c) of this section, an occupant of a motor vehicle may not consume an alcoholic beverage in a passenger area of a motor vehicle on a highway.

        (3)    An occupant of a motor vehicle may not smoke cannabis in a passenger area of a motor vehicle on a highway.

    (c)    Subsections (a)(1) and (b)(2) of this section do not apply to an occupant, who is not the driver, in:

        (1)    a motor vehicle designed, maintained, and used primarily for the transportation of a person for compensation, including:

            (i)    a bus;

            (ii)    a taxicab; or

            (iii)    a limousine; or

        (2)    the living quarters of a motor home, motor coach, or recreational vehicle.

    (d)    Notwithstanding § 6–320, § 6–321, or § 6–322 of the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, or any other provision of law, the prohibitions contained in this section apply throughout the State.

    (e)    A violation of this section is not:

        (1)    a moving violation for the purposes of § 16–402 of the Transportation Article; or

        (2)    a traffic violation for the purposes of the Maryland Vehicle Law.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 10-125

What does Maryland Code § 10-125 cover?

Section 10-125 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Maryland § 10-125?

A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 10-125" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Maryland law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.

How does Maryland § 10-125 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.