Permit Applications will be accepted through May 29, 2024

Baltimore, MD (May 13, 2024) – Today, Mayor Brandon M. Scott and Baltimore City Department of Transportation (BCDOT) Director Corren Johnson announced that Baltimore City is now accepting permit applications for its Dockless Vehicle for Hire Program, a permit program established in 2019.

Through the City’s shared dockless vehicle program, citizens can rent electric scooters and bikes.  Dockless vehicles are a fun and sustainable way to travel because they do not need to be parked in specific bike racks for rental or any other designated locations.  They are equipped with GPS technology which allows users to find vehicles throughout the city.

Companies that wish to operate dockless vehicles in Baltimore City must have a valid permit, and Dockless Vehicles for Hire permit applications are now being accepted by BCDOT.  Under the operating permit, companies will abide by the revised Rules and Regulations developed by BCDOT and its partners.  These regulations affect fleet size, parking requirements, equity zones and distribution, rider education, equity of access, safety and vehicle standards, and data reporting.  The permit regulations will be available for public comment from May 15, 2024 through June 15, 2024 and will be found online: https://transportation.baltimorecity.gov/regulations-public-comment

All completed permit applications will be scored to select companies that will:

•     Increase safety for everyone, including those renting vehicles, sharing a sidewalk, and sharing the roadway.
•     Improve equity for Baltimore City residents, including through opportunities, employment, and the ability to access amenities.
•     Promote active and sustainable transportation for healthier communities and a cleaner environment.

A committee of representatives from BCDOT and the Department of Planning will use a strict rubric to score applications based on the needs of Baltimore City for a safe, equitable, and sustainable program.

BCDOT is looking to permit an additional dockless vehicle company in Baltimore. One permit will be awarded to Spin whose permit will be renewed based on compliance and community rankings.  Permit applications for the remaining permit will be accepted through May 29, 2024.  The awarded permits will become active on July 1, 2024, and expire in one year, with the possibility of extension.

The permit application, permit regulations, and additional information can be found on the program website: https://transportation.baltimorecity.gov/bike-baltimore/dockless-vehicles.