Maryland Electric Bike Laws

Definition of Electric Bicycles

Definition of Electric Bicycle: A vehicle with pedal-assisted power, equipped with operable pedals, an electric motor (≤750W), and a two-wheel or three-wheel structure.

And falls under one of the following three types of electric bikes:

Class 1 Electric Bicycle: The electric motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and the assistance stops when the speed reaches 20 mph.

Class 2 Electric Bicycle: The electric motor provides assistance regardless of whether the rider is pedaling, and the assistance stops when the speed reaches 20 mph.

Class 3 Electric Bicycle: The electric motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and the assistance stops when the speed reaches 28 mph.

Age and Helmet Regulations

• Individuals under the age of 16 are prohibited from riding Class 3 electric bicycles on public roads. However, individuals under 16 may ride as passengers on Class 3 electric bicycles that are designed for carrying passengers.

• Although the law does not mandate that adults wear helmets, wearing a helmet remains an important safety measure for the protection of riders.

Driver's License, Registration, and Insurance

1. Maryland does not currently require electric bikes to have a driver's license, vehicle registration, or insurance.

2. However, riders must still comply with road riding rules, including:

-Not wearing earphones or earplugs while riding an electric bicycle.

-Obeying traffic signals, maintaining appropriate speeds.

-Using appropriate lighting equipment and riding in the same direction as motor vehicles.

-Ensuring a safe distance from other road users.

Where Electric Bicycles Can Be Ridden

• Electric bicycle road regulations may vary by state. In general, riding is allowed on most roadways and sidewalks, depending on local government regulations.

• Some cities may have specific electric bicycle lanes or restrictions on where electric bicycles can be ridden.

Category	Road Type	Allowed to Ride
Class 1 & Class 2 & Class 3	Areas where bicycles are allowed, including bike lanes	Allowed to Ride
Class 1 & Class 2	Bike Lanes	Subject to local or state government restrictions
Class 3	Bicycle path adjacent to a highway right–of–way	Allowed to Ride
Class 3	Bicycle path not adjacent to a highway right–of–way	Requires local or state government approval
Class 1 & Class 2 & Class 3	Non-motorized paths (such as dirt roads, pedestrian-only paths)	Strictly Restricted, especially on natural soil paths

Electric Bicycle Equipment Regulations

1.Lighting Requirements

If a bicycle or motorcycle is being ridden in low light conditions or during inclement weather, it must be equipped with:

• Front Light: Emits white light that is visible from at least 500 feet (152 meters) away.
• Rear Red Reflector: Visible from 100 to 600 feet (30 to 183 meters) when reflected by vehicle headlights.

Alternatively, a red reflector light or flashing amber light may replace the red reflector, as long as it is visible from 500 feet (152 meters).

2.Bell or Signal Device

All bicycles and motorcycles may be equipped with a bell or another device capable of emitting a signal that can be heard from at least 100 feet (30 meters) away.

3.Prohibition of Alarms or Whistles

Bicycles or motorcycles may not be equipped with alarms or whistles, nor should these devices be used.

4. Braking System

Bicycles or motorcycles must be equipped with a braking system that can bring the vehicle to a complete stop within 15 feet (approximately 4.6 meters) when traveling at a speed of 10 miles per hour (16 kilometers per hour) on clean, level pavement.

These regulations are intended to enhance rider safety and ensure that other drivers and pedestrians can see and hear cyclists in time, helping to prevent accidents.

Final Note

While we strive to ensure the information provided is accurate and complete, laws and regulations may change. We recommend consulting the latest legal texts or seeking advice from a legal professional when making decisions related to electric bicycles to ensure compliance with current laws.

Reference/Source:
https://mgaleg.maryland.gov

source https://macfoxbike.com/blogs/news/maryland-electric-bike-laws