NEW MARYLAND LEGISLATION (EFFECTIVE OCTOBER 1, 2012) REGARDING THE MANDITORY REGISTRATION OF ALL MOPEDS AND SCOOTER

The State of Maryland will be changing the laws governing vehicles classified as a motorscooter and/or mopeds. These new laws will directly impact ALL Ocean City scooter rental and retail sale operators as well as private citizens who own and operate these types of vehicles. Effective October 1, 2012: Mopeds and Motor Scooters, as defined by law, and are owned by Maryland residents are required to: Display a registration decal issued by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) Non- Maryland residents who own a motor scooter or moped in another state that operate/use the scooter in Maryland are exempt from the new registration requirements, however the Maryland laws regarding: Insurance, helmet and eye protection requirement apply. The operator shall have in their possession proof of insurance. Additionally, an individual who rides or operates a moped or motor scooter must wear protective headgear that meets specific federal standards (DOT). If the vehicle does not have a windscreen, eye-protection must also be worn. Further clarification by the Motor Vehicle Administration indicates all mopeds and motor scooters are to be titled electronically and be issued a permanent decal to place on the rear of the motor scooter. Maryland residents can go to: http://www.mva.maryland.gov/ to register their scooters. This web based registration has been operational as of this week. More