Parking on Campus
Like we said before, commuting to campus can be relatively easy if traveling by bus or Metro. But if your preferred choice of transportation is car, we have some information for you. It is important to apply for a permit as soon as possible to make sure that you have the best choice in parking lots. Parking permits are distributed on the basis of credit hours earned. The Department of Transportation Services (DOTS) breaks down credit hours into classes and offers first-come, first-served parking permits based on this information. The breakdowns and lots offered by class are as follows:

Freshmen: 0-30 Credit Hours can choose permits in lots 4 and 6.
Sophomores: 31-60 Credit Hours can choose permits in lots 4, 6, 9, 11.
Juniors: 61-90 Credit Hours can choose permits in lots 1, 4, 6, 9, 11, and in Stadium Drive Garage.
Seniors: 91 and above Credit Hours can choose permits in lots 1, 4, 6, 9, 11, and in Stadium Drive Garage.

Obtaining Parking Permits
To register for a parking permit you can visit the Department of Transportation Services in the Regents Drive Garage or you can visit the student permit site here.. Permit prices vary and you should check the website for the most updated information.

Parking Lots and Parking Citations
It is important for all students to be able to read parking signs on campus. Parking citations in lots are a minimum of $75. Always make sure that your parking permit is visible and that you are in the correct lot. Most lots have time restrictions on them and it is your responsibility to understand those restrictions. One example is below. This sign means that within this Numbered lot, you MUST have a valid permit between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Mon-Fri. The sign also notes that in a lot with this sign you can park without a permit before or after the times of 7a.m. and 4 p.m. These lots are referred to as Unrestricted after 4pm lots. To see a complete listing of all lot signs, visit the Where Can I Park? DOTS website at the parking lots map here..

If you do receive a parking citation for any reason, you may appeal it by going through the appeal process through the DOTS website. If you have a reason that the appeal board finds valid, your citation may be reduced or removed. The website to appeal a citation is www.transportation.umd.edu, click on Ticket Payments/Appeals.

Terp Tip: Some students who will not be on campus for long periods of time choose to park in one of two pay-parking garages on campus and pay an hourly or daily rate that may be a better deal financially for that student. This option might be an option that you will want to entertain when you start thinking about traveling to and parking on campus.

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Please contact the Orientation Office at 301-314-8217 or at askorientation@umd.edu if you have any comments, questions or concerns.