Motorcycles

Current Motorcycle Laws
 
   The laws listed below are current as of October 2005.

Required equipment

Helmets

• All motorcycle operators and passengers are required to wear a helmet that meets MVA standards. (TR § 21-1306)
  
• Eye protection
  
• A person may not operate a motorcycle unless the motorcycle has a windscreen or the operator wears an approved eye-protective device. (TR § 21-1306)
  
• Turn signals
  
• Motorcycles do not need to be equipped with electric turn signal lamps. (TR § 22-206)
  

Operation of a motorcycle

• All of Maryland’s traffic laws apply to motorcycle operators. (TR § 21-1301)
  
• The operator of a motorcycle may only ride the motorcycle on the permanent and regular seat. (TR § 21-1302)
  
• A passenger can only ride on a motorcycle designed to carry more than one person. (TR § 21-1302)
  
• A person may not carry anything that would prevent him from keeping both hands on the handlebars. (TR § 21-1302)
  
• A motorcycle is entitled to the full use of a lane and a motor vehicle may not be driven in any manner that would deprive a motorcycle of the full use of a lane. (TR § 21-1303)
  
• A person may not operate a motorcycle between lanes of traffic. (TR § 21-1303)
  
• Motorcycles may not be operated more than two abreast in a single lane. (TR § 21-1303)
  

Drivers’ licensing

• A Class E license authorizes the licensee to drive a motorcycle. (TR § 16-104)
  
• A Noncommercial Class M license authorizes the licensee to drive a motorcycle. (TR § 16-104.1)
  
• MVA may not issue a Noncommercial Class M license to a person under the age of 18 unless the individual has successfuly completed a motorcycle safety course approved by the MVA. (TR § 16-103)
  

Motorcycle Safety Course

• Any Maryland resident who has a valid Class E or Class M license or learner’s permit, or who is eligible for a Class M learner’s permit may enroll in the course. (TR § 16-604)
  
• Completion of the course shall be considered the equivalent of passing the skills and knowledge test required for obtaining a Class M license. (TR § 16-604)

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