Are Electric Scooters Legal in Baltimore?
Updated on December 1st, 2023
Baltimore's Department of Transportation encourages safe, responsible use of electric scooters on city streets, with adherence to all traffic regulations. Scooter and bicycle riders are expected to use bike lanes when available and keep to the right side of the road otherwise. The use of scooters on sidewalks is banned, except where the posted speed limit is 30 mph or higher, and even then, riders must be careful and considerate. When parked, scooters should not impede pedestrian pathways, bus stops, driveways, or entrances, and while they may be placed near bike racks, they must not obstruct their use. Motorists are reminded to maintain a minimum distance of three feet when passing riders and are required to yield to scooters and bicycles when turning.
Department of Transportation encourages all roadway users to be safe, obey all traffic laws, and share the road. With new forms of mobility on the road, be alert and courteous to other roadway users.
Scooter and bicycle users should know the following laws:
- Users under 16 are required to wear helmets when riding.
- Scooters and bicycles should ride in bicycle facilities where available and on the right side of the lane where there is no bike lane.
- Scooters should not be ridden on sidewalks except on streets where the speed limit is 30 mph or greater (always ride slowly, carefully, and courteously on sidewalks).
- Scooters should be parked courteously – not blocking sidewalks, bus stops, driveways, or doorways. You may park it next to a bike rack, but allow space for bicycles to still use the rack.
Drivers should know the following laws:
- Drivers must leave bicycles and scooters at least three (3) feet when passing.
- When turning, cars must look and yield to people, bicycles and scooters.
Max Speed
15 mph on roadways or as posted.
Minimum Age
No person under the age of 16 is permitted to rent an electric scooter; however, private ownership and use by individuals under 16 are subject to parental discretion and local helmet laws.
Helmets Required?
Yes, for riders under the age of 18.
