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Maryland ID Scanning Laws & Regulations

Maryland sample ID

Maryland has 5 laws which we consider relevant to ID verification, in addition to other laws which may related to age verification, identity verification, KYC, privacy, and biometrics.

Can you scan IDs in Maryland?

Yes. There are no laws prohibiting or regulating the electronic scanning of an ID in Maryland. Maryland law requires use of an age verification system for alcohol deliveries. 

Maryland introduced legislation in 2022 that would outlaw use of an electronic scanning device. The bill is sponsored by State Senator Cheryl C. Kagan, and has been referred to committee.

Can you save data from a scanned ID in Maryland?

Yes. There are no current laws which limit or restrict saving data from a scanned ID in Maryland.

Does Maryland offer affirmative defense for ID scanning?

No. Maryland has no affirmative defense laws related to ID scanning.

What types of IDs does Maryland issue?

Maryland issues drivers licenses and state IDs, including REAL ID. Maryland offers mobile drivers licenses (mDLs), available for Apple, Google, and Samsung Wallet.

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Age verification for alcohol sales

Maryland requires that businesses check ID of anyone appearing under 27 years old, but does not require electronic scanning or verification for alcohol sales.

Read ATCC regulations →

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Age verification for tobacco sales

Maryland requires that businesses check ID but does not require electronic scanning or verification for tobacco and vape sales.

Read SB1056 →

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ID scanning for alcohol delivery

Maryland requires ID scans to verify the age of a person accepting the delivery of alcoholic beverages.

Read SB1041 →

ID scanning for pawnbrokers and secondhand precious metals

Dealers acquiring secondhand precious metals are required to verify the seller’s government-issued ID and record their name, address, physical description, and ID number.

Read § 12-301

Age verification for adult content

The Maryland Online Child Protection Act would mandate safety settings on phones, tablets, and game devices marketed to minors, that would automatically block obscene content.

Read SB0780 →

The Maryland Online Data Privacy Act (SB541) requires businesses to allow Maryland residents to review, correct, and delete their personal data. Businesses must provide an opt-out of the processing of their personal data for the purposes of targeted advertising, the sale of their personal data, or profiling. Consumers in Maryland can access a list of the categories of third parties to which the controller has disclosed their data or to which the controller has disclosed data generally.

Reach out to learn from our team of identity experts how ID scanning can ensure your business remains compliant with all current and upcoming regulations.

These resources are for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional legal advice.

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