Scooters and Mopeds

What are scooters and mopeds?

Scooters are usually two-wheel motorcycle-type motor vehicles 50 cc or less or 2 brake horsepower or less gas engines that have automatic transmissions. Mopeds also have 50 cc or less engines with two wheels, but have pedals and may be operated solely by human power.

In order to legally operate scooters, mopeds, and other 2-3 wheel small engine motor vehicles, at least a Class E driver license and tag/registration are required.

Persons 16 and older may operate a moped or ride as a passenger without a helmet. Persons under 16 may not operate a moped, but may ride as a passenger with protective headgear securely fastened upon their head.

The definition of a moped in s. 320.01(28) F.S. as any vehicle with pedals to permit propulsion by human power, having a seat or saddle for the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than three wheels, with a motor rated not in excess of 2-brake horsepower and not capable of propelling the vehicle at a speed greater than 30 miles per hour on level ground, and with a power-drive system that functions directly or automatically without clutching or shifting gears by the operator after the drive system is engaged. If an internal combustion engine is used, the displacement may not exceed 50 cubic centimeters.

MOPEDS

Moped operators have the same rights and duties as motor vehicle operators and can also receive citations for traffic violations; therefore, they should know and obey these moped laws.

1. Moped operators must be at least 16 years old and hold at least a Class E License to operate a moped on public streets or roadways. A learner's license is not sufficient. (Mopeds fit the definition of a motor vehicle in 322.01(26), Florida Statutes, and s. 322.03, F.S. requires a driver license to operate any motor vehicle)
2. A motorcycle endorsement is not required to operate a moped
3. Mopeds must be registered annually and a tag must be purchased
4. Mopeds may not be operated on bicycle paths or footpaths when operated using the motor
5. Moped operators do not have to carry PIP insurance