Maryland E-Bike Laws
Maryland uses the three-class system (Md. Transp. Code 11-117.1): Class 1 pedal-assist to 20 mph, Class 2 throttle to 20 mph, Class 3 pedal-assist to 28 mph. E-bikes may operate wherever bicycles may travel, including bike lanes; local authorities may prohibit Class 1 or 2 on a bicycle path, and Class 3 may not use a bicycle path unless it is within or adjacent to a highway right-of-way or the authority allows it (21-1205.2(a)). A person under 16 may not operate a Class 3 e-bike on a public highway but may ride as a passenger on one built for passengers (21-1205.2(b)). Maryland's bicycle helmet law requires a helmet for riders under 16 (21-1207.1), and 'bicycle' includes electric bicycles (11-104).
Maryland defines electric bicycles under the three-class system (Md. Transp. Code § 11-117.1): Class 1 provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, ceasing at 20 mph; Class 2 provides assistance whether or not the rider is pedaling, ceasing at 20 mph; Class 3 provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, ceasing at 28 mph — all with motors rated 750 watts or less and fully operable pedals. An electric bicycle may be operated where bicycles are allowed to travel, including bike lanes (§ 21-1205.2(a)). A local authority or State agency may prohibit Class 1 or Class 2 electric bicycles on a bicycle path under its jurisdiction; a Class 3 electric bicycle may not be operated on a bicycle path unless the path is within or adjacent to a highway right-of-way or the authority with jurisdiction over the path allows it; and an authority may regulate electric bicycles of any class on a trail designated as nonmotorized that has a natural surface tread (§ 21-1205.2(a)(2)). A person under 16 may not operate a Class 3 electric bicycle on a public highway, but may ride as a passenger on a Class 3 electric bicycle designed to accommodate passengers (§ 21-1205.2(b)). Maryland's definition of 'bicycle' includes electric bicycles and electric low speed scooters (§ 11-104), so the bicycle helmet law — which requires a rider under 16 to wear an approved helmet — applies to them (§ 21-1207.1), and electric low speed scooters generally may ride where bicycles may.