Bicycle Light & Reflector Laws in Maryland
Last reviewed by BikeSize EditorialThis guide is for general information only and is not legal advice. Laws change - verify current rules with your state DOT or a licensed attorney before relying on this for any legal matter. Read full disclaimer.
The rule
Maryland requires lamp on the front emitting a white light visible from at least 500 feet to the front, required from a half hour after sunset until a half hour before sunrise. For the rear, red reflector on the rear visible from all distances from 600 feet to 100 feet when directly in front of lawful lower-beam headlamps, or a red rear lamp visible from 600 feet in lieu of the reflector. The rule applies whenever it is dark. See Md. Transp. § 21-1207 (Riding on sidewalks; equipment). Read the national bike lights & reflectors guide for comparison. For equipment that matches the visibility requirement, compare bike lights by beam and runtime.
Statute
What this means in practice
The cheapest way to stay legal in Maryland is a USB-rechargeable front white light and a rear red light or reflector that meets the spec above. A $30 light set covers it.
Be seen, stay legal
Compare bike lights that meet the 500-foot rule
Most state codes require a white front light visible from 500 feet plus a rear reflector or red light. See lights that hit the spec and last a full commute.
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