Maryland's New Auto Glass Calibration Law: What You Need to Know Before It Takes Effect
Maryland Is Raising the Bar on Auto Glass Safety
If you've ever had your windshield replaced and wondered whether your car's safety cameras were properly recalibrated afterward — Maryland's new law has your back. Senate Bill 789 was introduced in February 2026 and is set to take effect October 1, 2026. It's one of the most detailed ADAS calibration laws in the country, and it affects repair shops, insurance companies, and drivers alike.
What Is ADAS and Why Does Calibration Matter?
ADAS stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems — the technology behind features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, blind spot detection, and adaptive cruise control. These systems rely on cameras and sensors that are often mounted on or near your windshield. When the glass is replaced, those sensors can shift slightly and need to be recalibrated to work correctly. If they're not, your safety features may not function as intended — even though everything looks fine from the outside.
What the New Maryland Law Requires
Under SB 789, any shop that performs ADAS recalibrations must now be licensed by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). But the requirements go beyond just licensing:
- Before work begins: Shops must give you a written statement explaining which ADAS systems may be affected, what recalibration is needed, the estimated cost, and the safety risks of skipping it.
- After work is done: Shops must provide documentation of all diagnostic scans, confirm all systems are functioning properly, and give you instructions on monitoring your ADAS going forward.
- No shortcuts allowed: A shop cannot return your vehicle without completing required recalibration — and cannot claim a recalibration was done if it wasn't.
What It Means for Insurance Companies
The law also puts new obligations on insurers. Insurance companies can no longer deny coverage for repairs or recalibrations recommended by the vehicle manufacturer's procedures. They must also include line items in their estimates for pre- and post-repair diagnostic scanning and all necessary recalibrations. This is a big win for consumers who have previously been left fighting with their insurance company over calibration costs.
What Happens If a Shop Breaks the Rules?
Penalties kick in starting November 1, 2027. Violations are treated as unfair and deceptive trade practices under Maryland law, with fines ranging from $1,000 for a first offense up to $5,000 and possible license suspension for repeat violations.
What This Means for You as a Driver
The next time you need a windshield replacement, you have the right to ask your shop whether your vehicle has ADAS, whether recalibration is required, and to receive written documentation before and after the job. Don't settle for less — your safety systems depend on it.
At Glow Auto Glass, we stay ahead of the latest industry standards so you never have to worry. Have questions about your vehicle's ADAS or upcoming windshield service? Contact us today — we're here to help.
Source
This post is based on the official text of Maryland Senate Bill 789 (SB 789), introduced February 6, 2026, as published by the Maryland General Assembly.