3 Wheel Motorcycle License, Registration, and Insurance in Maryland

Ready to get on the road with your trike or autocycle?

Keep reading for an overview of the licensing, registration, and insurance requirements for 3-wheel motorcycles in Maryland.

Do you Need a Motorcycle License for a Trike in Maryland?

Yes, a motorcycle license is required to ride a trike in Maryland. 

Completing your licensing requirements on a 3-wheel motorcycle will restrict you to 3-wheel motorcycles only. A standard 2-wheel motorcycle license allows you to ride any type of bike. 

For more information, please check out our guide on how to get a motorcycle license in Maryland.

Do you Need a Motorcycle License for an Autocycle in Maryland?

In Maryland, a motorcycle license is not required to operate an autocycle like a Slingshot. A valid Maryland driver’s license is all you need to legally drive one.

Maryland 3 Wheel Motorcycle License Test

In order to get a trike motorcycle license, you’ll need to:

• Pass a motorcycle knowledge exam. 
• Pass a motorcycle skills test. 

If you complete an approved motorcycle training course, you will not also need to take the MVA motorcycle skills tests and written exam.

Note that testing or completing a 3-wheel basic rider course will add a J restriction to your license that only allows you to ride trikes. 

Prepare for your DMV tests with our Maryland motorcycle permit practice test. 

Be sure to refer to your state’s motorcycle operator handbook and the 3-wheel motorcycle supplement from MSF. 

How to Register a Trike or Autocycle in Maryland

Maryland title and registration for 3-wheel motorcycles, trikes, and autocycles is a similar process to that of 2-wheel motorcycles. 

In general, you’ll need the following items and information:

• Proof of ownership (Title, MCO, previous registration documents, Bill of Sale).
• An application for registration and title. 
• Proof of completion of any necessary safety inspections. 
• Proof of insurance coverage. 
• Payment for your license plates, registration fees, and taxes. 

For more details on registering and titling your trike or autocycle, please refer to our guides on the following topics:

• Maryland Motorcycle Registration & Title Overview
• Maryland Motorcycle Registration & Registration Renewals
• Maryland Motorcycle Title Transfers

Maryland Insurance Requirements for 3-Wheel Motorcycles and Autocycles

Minimum motorcycle liability coverage (20/40/10) is required for all trikes and autocycles in Maryland.

The right insurance coverage is a good idea to protect yourself, your financial health, and your vehicle in the event of an accident, theft, or damage. 

Get more details in our guide to motorcycle insurance here. 

Need a quote? Find the right autocycle or trike insurance policy with our free quote tool. 

Learn more about trike insurance.

Note that state laws and regulations are subject to change, for any questions or further details about 3-wheel motorcycles in Maryland, please contact the DMV or visit their official website.