Driving License Scooter Laws
Depending on the state, you might not require an extra license to drive a scooter. New York, for instance is classified according to their maximum speed, and requires registration, license and insurance.
In Alaska you must have a motorcycle endorsement on your driver's licence or a separate motorcycle license to drive mopeds or scooters.
Mopeds
For those who reside in urban areas, the driving license scooter is an enjoyable and efficient way to get around. These vehicles are easier to park and are more environmentally green than cars. However, they can still be hazardous and cause injuries when the driver isn't complying with the regulations. While the rules regarding mopeds may differ slightly from state to state, the majority are considered to be a kind of motorbike and have similar laws in place.
Pennsylvania defines a moped as be a two-wheeled vehicle that has pedals that are operated by feet for propulsion and an engine not more than 50 cc. The moped must also be able to move at 30 mph on level ground. Moped drivers must always wear a helmet and their vehicle must be insured, registered, and examined.
In Michigan the state of Michigan, it defines mopeds as being motor-driven cycles that are not intended to transport passengers. They are not required to be registered or titled however, drivers must have a valid driver's license or moped permit to drive on public roads. The state also requires all moped drivers carry liability insurance.
Montana, like Pennsylvania also classifies mopeds as a form of motorbike and requires the driver to possess a Class M or MJ (motorcycle) license to operate mopeds. In addition, the state requires that all drivers wear an eye and helmet when riding mopeds. The registration process for mopeds is exactly the same as that of regular motorcycles. All owners must register them and provide proof of insurance to be able to drive them on public roads.
Other states treat scooters and mopeds in the same manner and require that they are titled, registered, and insured, as well as having a valid driver's license or moped license to drive them on public roads. Different states may have different definitions for these types of vehicles, and require a certain amount of training in order to operate them. This is a good reason to consult your local department of transportation before purchasing mopeds.
Scooters
Scooters are self-propelled vehicles with two wheels that are specifically designed for personal use. They have a body that hides most of the mechanicals, and typically, they have integral storage space, such as a front leg shield or built-in seat. They also come in a variety of engine and power configurations - from 50cc models that have a single cylinder to 850cc twin cylinder scooters. Scooters usually have chains, but they can also be driven with a direct drive. They can be powered by natural gas, or battery-powered electric motors. Most are made with cast aluminum or pressed steel alloy wheels, and a lot come with interchangeable rear and front tires. There are many options for braking systems. They include mechanical disc brakes, drum brakes, and electronic or regenerative brakes.
In New York, a moped or scooter can be operated without a license, as long as it meets certain requirements. These include having pedals that are able to be used for propulsion with human assistance and a floorboard that is designed to be able to stand on while operating the vehicle, and having an attached engine that is not larger than 50 cc and has less than 2 brake horsepower. Mopeds and scooters can only be operated on roads with the speed limit of lower than 30 mph.
If your scooter has a engine that is larger than 50 cc or produces more than 2 brake horsepower it is likely to be classified as a motorcycle and you must have it titled, registered and licensed and follow the same rules and regulations like you would if you were driving a car. You must also wear a helmet when driving on public roads.
In some states like Connecticut, motorscooters are considered mopeds and must be tagged and registered. They can only be operated on roads that have a posted speed limit of 30 mph or less. They are not permitted on sidewalks or in bicycle lanes. Helmets are also required for riders who are younger than 18. Additionally, mopeds and scooters need to be parked in a straight line to ensure that sidewalks are clear for pedestrian use.
Motorcycles
In a number of states the law states that if your motorbike has a top speed of 30 mph or higher on a level surface and does not have peddles to assist with propulsion, it is categorized as a motorcycle and must be titled and insured. Motorized bicycles are treated similarly to motorcycles, and both kinds of vehicles should be operated with an eye shield and helmet. In Georgia, for instance all drivers and riders of motorized bicycles and mopeds must wear helmets to be allowed to drive.
The process to obtain a motorcycle licence is the same as that to obtain a regular driving license. It usually involves passing a written test at your local Driver License Examination Station and taking a driving test on a motorcycle. After passing both tests, you will be allowed to take the road test on motorcycles with a certified examiner on an off-street course.
You must bring your motorcycle, a helmet, and eye protection that is appropriate to the road test. If motocykl prawo jazdy pass your road test, you will be issued your motorized bicycle license. In most cases you will also be required to register your motorcycle and pay a small fee.
Motorcycles are generally deemed to be more hazardous than mopeds, so they require a higher minimum age for licensing as an operator and more stringent rules for operating. For instance in New Mexico, you must be at least 16 years of age to operate a motorcycle and must be able to pass a safety course, rider's examination, and the test for riding skills.
A helmet is required when operating a motorbike on any public or private property. You should also have liability insurance for your vehicle.
If you intend to operate your motorized vehicle on highways, you'll require a class M motorcycle licence. This license is valid for all vehicles that have an engine of 50cc or more, however you still need to pass a knowledge test and a driving skills test to get a motorcycle license in the state. You'll also have to register your bike and pay the small registration and inspection fee.
Licensing
The rules for who can drive what kind of scooter in New York City are not clear, and that can lead to confusion and legal issues. A knowledgeable lawyer can clarify the law and help individuals avoid issues with their state and city licensing requirements for scooters.
In Massachusetts mopeds and motorized scooters used on public roadways need to be titled, registered and have license plates. The vehicles are required to be insured for the minimum of $15,000 per person, and $30,000. per accident. The MA RMV also requires that anyone who is younger than 16 years old wear a helmet.
Certain states have stricter rules regarding scooters that are primarily used for leisure. In New Mexico, anyone operating a scooter with pedals capable of achieving speeds greater than 20 mph on flat terrain needs a valid license. All riders and operators must wear helmets. In certain states, such as Pennsylvania, a motorbike that falls between the moped and motorcycle regulations is classified as a "motor-driven bike." The motor must not exceed 50 cc, and it must not produce more than 2 horsepower for brakes. The vehicle must also be inspected and you must get a Class M license in order to operate it on the streets.
The majority of people will only think about a scooter if it is street legal. In New York it is only allowed to be driven on the streets and bike lanes. It is not permitted to drive on a street or sidewalk. It must be driven in the correct lane and adhere to all traffic laws, including not crossing white lines or passing cars on the left.
As an experienced New York City attorney who has represented clients across the state, I know how difficult it can be to know which scooters are allowed in what areas and in what classes of license. Understanding the differences can save you from being ticketed or having to pay for costly repairs.