Maryland Moped Laws

A moped is a bicyle that meets the following requirements:

1. Is designed to be propelled by human power with some assistance from a motor.
2. Has pedals that drive the bicyle mechanically
3. Has two or three wheels, of which are more than 14 inches in diameter
4. Has a motor with a rating of 1.5 brake horsepower or less, and, if the motor is an internal combustion engine,a capacity of 50 cubic centimeters piston displacement or less.

A motor scooter is a type of non-pedaled vehicle that meets the following standards:

1. Has two wheels, of which one is 10 inches or more in diameter
2. Has a seat for the operator
3. Has a step-through chassis
4. Is equipped with an automatic transmission.
5. Has a motor with a rating of 2.7 brake horsepower or less, and if the motor is an internal combustion engine,with a capacity of 50 cubic centimeters piston displacement or less.

A scooter is a two-wheeled vehicle that has handlebars and is designed to be stood on by the operator. These devices cannot be legally operated on public roadways or sidewalks.

To operate a moped in Maryland, riders must have a valid drivers license from which ever state that they live in, or a valid Maryland moped operator's permit issued by the Maryland MVA. Failure to present the proper licenses needed will result in a fine of around $315.

1. overtaking and passing another bicycle, motor scooter, pedestrian, or other vehicle within the bike lane or shoulder if the overtaking and passing cannot be done safely within the bike lane or shoulder
2. preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into an alley, private road, or driveway
3. When reasonably necessary to leave the bike lane or shoulder to avoid debris or other hazardous condition
4. When reasonably necessary to leave the bike lane or shoulder because the bike lane or shoulder is overlaid with a right turn lane, merge lane, or other marking that breaks the continuity of the bike lane or shoulder.

All "motor vehicles" are required to be registered in Maryland, but vehicles classified as either motor scooters or mopeds are exempt from this law. So all mopeds and motor scooters do not need to be registered with tags in Maryland.

In the 2006 legislative session in Maryland, House Bill 496 (PDF) brings up the debate about whether helmets should be required for the riders and operators of mopeds and motor scooters. The bill introduces the idea of making moped and motor scooter operators required to wear helmet and eye protection, just like the motorcycle laws. The law suggests riders under the age of 21 be required to abide by this law. Riders and operators over 21 would not be required to wear a helmet or eye protection if they can provide proof of proper medical insurance.