A new law will take effect on October 1, 2012 and will make significant changes in the use and operation of motor scooters ("scooters") and mopeds. The new law will require all scooters and mopeds to be titled and insured, and will require all operators and passengers of scooters and mopeds to wear a helmet and eye protection.
The helmets must be motorcycle helmets that meet the safety standards set by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The use of eye protection may be waived if the scooter or moped is equipped with a windscreen.
Scooter and moped owners will be required to obtain at least the minimum vehicle liability insurance and must carry proof of the insurance when the scooter or moped is being operated.
Scooters and mopeds will also be required to be titled by the Motor Vehicle Administration. Upon receiving the title, the vehicle owner will be provided with a decal that must be displayed on the rear of the vehicle.
Maryland law defines a motor scooter as a non-pedal vehicle that has a seat for the operator; has two wheels, of which one is ten or more inches in diameter; has a step through chassis; has a motor with a rating of 2.7 brake horsepower or less, or a 50 cc engine or less; and is equipped with an automatic transmission.
A moped is defined as a bicycle that is designed to be operated by human power with the assistance of a motor; is equipped with pedals that can drive the rear wheel(s); has two or three wheels, one of which is more than 14 inches in diameter; has a motor with a rating of 1.5 brake horsepower or less and a 50 cc engine or less.
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