Can visitors drive on the Boardwalk?

No—not as a casual sightseeing idea. The Boardwalk is for pedestrians (and authorized uses). Vehicles on the boards require Town authorization through the official permit process.

Who usually needs this permit?

Specialized uses such as certain surf-fishing or authorized access situations—not hotel guests moving luggage. If you are unsure whether your activity qualifies, ask the Town before you assume a truck or ATV is allowed.

Is this the same as a surf-fishing beach-driving permit elsewhere?

Not necessarily. Assateague and other beach-driving programs have their own rules. Ocean City Boardwalk vehicle authorization is a Town process—use the official application link from the How Do I menu.

The Town How Do I item “Apply for a Boardwalk Vehicle Permit” opens the current application form. Start there for eligibility and requirements; this guide does not process applications.

Boardwalk vehicle permit

Driving on the Boardwalk requires a Town permit. This is not a general visitor driving tip. Apply through the official form only if your use qualifies.

If you saw a work truck or authorized vehicle on the boards, that does not mean rental cars can cruise the Boardwalk. Start the Town application here: Boardwalk vehicle permit form.

Most visitors should skip this

Beach weeks usually need parking, the municipal bus, and walking—not Boardwalk driving. For fishing logistics, use the surf fishing permits FAQ and fishing hub instead of assuming vehicle access on the boards.

Eligibility and form links can change—use the current Town How Do I → Boardwalk Vehicle Permit path on oceancitymd.gov.

Boardwalk vehicle FAQs

Can visitors drive on the Boardwalk?: No—not as a casual sightseeing idea. The Boardwalk is for pedestrians (and authorized uses). Vehicles on the boards require Town authorization through the official permit process.
Who usually needs this permit?: Specialized uses such as certain surf-fishing or authorized access situations—not hotel guests moving luggage. If you are unsure whether your activity qualifies, ask the Town before you assume a truck or ATV is allowed.
Is this the same as a surf-fishing beach-driving permit elsewhere?: Not necessarily. Assateague and other beach-driving programs have their own rules. Ocean City Boardwalk vehicle authorization is a Town process—use the official application link from the How Do I menu.
Where do I apply?: The Town How Do I item “Apply for a Boardwalk Vehicle Permit” opens the current application form. Start there for eligibility and requirements; this guide does not process applications.