Is Lane Splitting (Motorcycles) Legal in Maryland? (2026)
No — Lane Splitting (Motorcycles) is illegal in Maryland as of 2026.
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Quick Answer
Maryland Transportation Code §21-309 prohibits motorcycles from lane splitting or lane sharing. Motorcycles must operate within a single lane and may not pass between lanes of traffic except when overtaking another vehicle.
What the Law Says
Maryland Transportation Code § 21-1303 prohibits operating a motorcycle between lanes of traffic.
— Maryland Transportation Code §21-309
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Lane Splitting Rules | No specific rules related to lane splitting possession. |
| Lane Filtering Rules | No specific rules related to lane splitting sale or purchase. |
| Traffic Penalties | Violations may result in fines and points on the operator's driving record. |
| License Requirements | None |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
No significant changes since 2023.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement of lane splitting laws in Maryland is strict, with officers often citing general traffic safety statutes.
A common mistake in Maryland is riders assuming that filtering in slow or stopped traffic is permissible, which is generally not the case.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Maryland. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Lane Splitting (Motorcycles) is illegal in Maryland. This activity can result in criminal charges. Do not assume enforcement is lax — penalties are real. Consult a licensed attorney if you have specific questions.
Maryland vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, lane splitting on a motorcycle is fully legal in 1 states, restricted in 3, and illegal in 46. Maryland falls in the ILLEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Lane Splitting (Motorcycles):
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is lane splitting on a motorcycle legal in Maryland?
What are the penalties for lane splitting on a motorcycle in Maryland?
How strictly does Maryland enforce its lane splitting (motorcycles) laws?
What typically triggers enforcement in Maryland?
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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Lane Splitting (Motorcycles) in Other States
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