Bicycle DUI Laws in Maine
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
In Maine, the DUI statute does not apply to bicyclists — it covers motor-vehicle operators only. Maine's OUI statute (29-A M.R.S. § 2411) applies only to operators of a 'motor vehicle' on a public way. Bicycles are not motor vehicles under 29-A § 101, so a cyclist cannot be charged with OUI. Public-drinking and disorderly-conduct laws may still apply. See 29-A M.R.S. § 2411 (Operating under the influence).
Statute
What this means in practice
A DUI charge isn't on the table for cyclists in Maine, but that's not a license to ride drunk — public-intoxication, reckless-conduct, and disorderly-conduct charges can still apply, and cycling impaired dramatically raises crash risk.
Ride sharp, ride legal
Run a 60-second pre-ride safety check
DUI, impairment, and distraction laws all assume you are riding a bike that is actually safe to ride. The M-check takes a minute and catches the things that get you hurt.
See the M-check guide