Jill Kolodner | May 30, 2023 | Maryland Law
Every state makes its own laws when it comes to motorcycle licensing — and Maryland is no different. Before you head down to the DMV to register your new bike, you need to know Maryland’s requirements and licensing options for legally riding a motorcycle.
Even if you know how to ride a motorcycle, don’t make the mistake of riding without proper licensing and registration. If you get pulled over, you risk fines and a ticket — and if a motorcycle accident occurs, you can find yourself in even bigger financial and legal trouble.
Maryland Licenses and Types of Bikes
Some states require motorcyclists to hold specific types of licenses based on the types of motorized vehicles they drive. This is the case in California — motorcyclists must hold an M1 license, but anyone operating a motorized bike, moped, or scooter is required to hold an M2 license.
Maryland doesn’t make distinctions like these. A simple Class M license or endorsement is enough to operate any two- or three-wheeled motorized vehicle. Maryland doesn’t require licensing for motorized bicycles, but the rider of a moped must hold a driver’s license.
Maryland Motorcycle License Options
Riders in Maryland have two primary options when it comes to getting a motorcycle license. You can opt for either a Class M endorsement or a Class M license.
Maryland law makes it fairly easy for a current driver to get certified to ride a motorcycle. If you already have a valid Maryland driver’s license, the easiest way to get your motorcycle license is to simply add a Class M (for motorcycle) endorsement to your driver’s license.
If you don’t have a driver’s license, you can still acquire a Maryland motorcycle license, but it takes a bit more work. In this case, instead of an endorsement, you’ll be issued a Class M license, which is valid for driving motorcycles only.
Obtaining a Class M License in Maryland
Regardless of age, riders who have never held a driver’s license are considered “rookie drivers” and must complete a driver education course. Requirements for a new driver include:
- 30 hours of classroom instruction
- Six hours of training behind the wheel
- Reading the Maryland Motorcycle Operator Manual
- Completing a knowledge test
- Earning a learner’s permit
Once a new biker has earned their Maryland Class M learner’s permit, they can drive under the supervision of another driver who is over the age of 21 and has held a Class M license for at least three years.
Permit holders receive a provisional license after passing the motorcycle skills test. After 18 months of maintaining a clean driving record, they can receive a regular license.
Requirements for Maryland Motorcycle Drivers Under 18
Maryland encourages all motorcyclists to complete an approved motorcycle safety course through the Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program. These courses are designed to help reduce the risk of a motorcycle accident.
Drivers over the age of 18 don’t have to complete this course, but it’s a requirement for drivers under 18. Teen motorcyclists are also expected to complete the classes and tests required of any new driver. Teens must hold a motorcycle permit for at least nine months before acquiring a license.
General Maryland Motorcycle Licensing Requirements
Maryland offers a streamlined process, called fast-track licensing, for those who already have a driver’s license.
Bikers with an existing Maryland license can take the motorcycle knowledge test and skills test on the same day, with no waiting periods and no requirement to hold a permit first.
If you’ve recently moved to Maryland from another state, you simply need to exchange your out-of-state motorcycle license for an in-state one.
Whatever your driving background, the State of Maryland makes it easy for motorcyclists to comply with state licensing requirements. Taking the time to follow these laws keeps the roads safer from accidents and helps bikers avoid tickets and fines.
Contact the Baltimore Motorcycle Accident Law Firm of WGK Personal Injury Lawyers Today For Help
For more information contact the Baltimore motorcycle accident law firm of WGK Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation.
WGK Personal Injury Lawyers
14 W Madison St, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States
(410) 837-2144
WGK Personal Injury Lawyers – Dundalk Office
7329 Holabird Ave Suite 3, Dundalk, MD 21222
(410) 970-3080
