Maryland Motorcycle Licensing
Motorcycle License, Training & Insurance
The content below is for informational purposes only and was last updated as of March 2026. For the most up-to-date information, please consult the Maryland Department of Transportation or the Maryland Motorcycle Operators Manual.
Operating a Motorcycle in Maryland
Drivers of motorcycles in Maryland must have a valid Class M license. Operating a motorcycle without a valid Class M license may result in penalties, including fines, suspension of your driver’s license, points being added to your driving record, or your motorcycle being towed away.
You will also have to pass a Class C Maryland knowledge test in the following situations:
- You have a valid Maryland driver’s license of another class.
- You do not have a Maryland driver’s license.
- Your license has expired for over one (1) year.
Getting a Maryland Class M Motorcycle License/Endorsement
- Age & Permit Requirements:
- If you are under 18 years old, you are required to complete the Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program’s Basic Rider Course (BRC) before applying for your Class M license.
- Completion of the Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program course can waive the requirement for a knowledge test, skills test, or learner’s permit when adding the Class M endorsement to your current driver’s license.
- Out-of-State Licenses:
- If you have a valid out-of-state motorcycle license or endorsement, you can generally transfer it to Maryland after passing the vision test.
- However, if your out-of-state license has been expired for one year or more, you’ll need to pass both the knowledge and skills tests.
- If you are under 18 years old, you must complete the Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program or an acceptable out-of-state equivalent.
- 3-hour alcohol and drug certificate may be required too.
- Adding the Class M Endorsement to Your Driver’s License:
- Present your Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program Completion Certificate at a full-service MVA office. Unless you have a valid motorcycle learner’s permit, a fee must be paid, as well.
Motorcycle Education & Training in Maryland
Maryland’s Motorcycle Safety Program offers several training options, which include classroom instruction, eCourses, and riding activities. Courses are typically held between March and November of each year.
Training motorcycles are provided, but if students decide to bring their personal motorcycle to class, they should not ride it to class unless they are operating it legally. Students must provide their own gear, which the course instructor will be responsible for inspecting.
Registration and Insurance
- You must register your motorcycle with the Maryland MVA.
- Maryland requires liability insurance for all registered motorcycles, in the following minimum amounts:
- $30,000 for bodily injury
- $60,000 for 2 or more people
- $15,000 property damage
Next Steps
If you’re a new rider or new to Maryland, you now know how to get started with motorcycle permits, Class M licensing, registration and insurance requirements. Before you hit the road, make sure your motorcycle is properly insured!
Click here or call 833-70-RIDER to get a quote in minutes.
Disclaimer: This article has been provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is based on the most reliable information available as of the date of publication. Motorcycle laws are subject to change. For legal guidance and to ensure you have the most up-to-date information, please consult qualified legal counsel or your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.
The MD MVA requires motorcyclists to have current coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements on all registered vehicles. Before riding in Maryland, make sure your coverage meets the state’s requirements.
To make sure you have the right coverage at the right price, come see what Rider can do for you.
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