Maryland2026Active
HB0018
Minimum Pay Rules for Ride-App Drivers in Maryland
Last scannedAug 22, 2026, 4:24 AM
In one sentence
This law sets the lowest amount ride-app companies must pay drivers for trips starting in Maryland beginning July 1, 2026.
What it does
- Requires companies to pay at least $1.66 per mile and $0.40 per minute for passenger trips originating in the state.
- Adds an extra payment of $1.18 per mile if the driver uses a wheelchair-accessible vehicle.
- Guarantees drivers receive at least $5.00 for every trip, regardless of how short or small it is.
- Mandates that companies give drivers at least 80% of any fee charged when a passenger cancels a ride after booking.
- Increases the minimum pay per mile and minute each year based on inflation rates.
Who it affects
- Transportation network operators, also known as app-based drivers or partners.
- Companies that use digital apps to connect passengers with drivers for rides in Maryland.
Limits and unknowns
- The new pay rules only apply to trips that start inside Maryland.
- If inflation does not rise in a given year, the minimum payment amounts will stay the same instead of increasing.
- This law does not cover taxicabs, limousines, or volunteer drivers for nonprofit groups.
Plain language
Terms to know
- Transportation network company
- A business that uses a phone app or digital system to match passengers with drivers for rides.
- Transportation network operator
- An individual driver who is licensed and approved by the state to provide ride services through an app.
Official record
Sources
Official summary
Requiring a transportation network company to pay operators, after July 1, 2026, and for any passenger trip originating in the State, $1.66 per mile and $0.40 per minute, an additional $1.18 per mile for an operator using a wheelchair accessible vehicle, at least $5.00 for any passenger trip, and at least 80% of any cancellation fee charged by a transportation network company; and adjusting the minimum amount paid per mile and per minute by inflation each year.
Official activity
Bill history
- In the House - Hearing 2/03 at 2:00 p.m.