In Minnesota, a "scooter" can be either a motorcycle or a moped, depending on its engine size, engine power, and top speed. Most scooters are classified as motorcycles, and require driver's license and a motorcycle endorsement or motorcycle instruction permit to ride them legally. 

Some very small scooters may be registered as mopeds and may be ridden legally by anyone 15 or older with a valid driver's license or moped/motorized bicycle permit.

A moped is defined as a vehicle that is propelled by a motor of a capacity of 50cc or less, and a maximum of two brake horse power, which is capable of a maximum speed of not more than 30 mph on a flat surface. A motorized foot scooter is capable of no more than 15 mph and has wheels 10 inches in diameter or less.

Anyone who holds either a drivers license or a moped/motorized bicycle permit is eligible to operate a moped. A rider must be 12 years of age or older to operate a motorized foot scooter. No license or permit is required.

Anyone 15 years or older wishing to obtain a moped/motorized bicycle permit must:

• Complete an approved moped course (the course can be completed before the rider turns 15 years old)
• Present completion card to examiner to take written and riding test (permit is void after obtaining drivers license.)

All operators riding with a moped/motorized bicycle permit:

• Must have/wear eye protection, must be at least 15 years old, those who are under 18 must wear a helmet (either a bicycle helmet or motorcycle helmet), must use headlight and taillights if traveling at night, may not carry a passenger unless the moped is equipped with a passenger seat and footpegs, and the operator and passenger are related as a parent/guardian and his/her child. Motorized foot scooter riders may not carry passengers. Motorized foot scooter riders younger than 18 must wear a bicycle helmet or motorcycle helmet.

Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs could result in:

• Loss of driving privilege until age 18 or 6 months, whichever is greater, a large fine, a tainted driving record for a lifetime, an alcohol problem assessment treatment, increased insurance rates when you are legally able to drive, and a high license reinstatement fee.

Safe Riding Rules

Always make a pre-ride inspection before you ride the moped. You may prevent a crash or equipment damage.

Many accidents involve inexperienced riders. Most states require a special riding test or license. Make sure you are qualified before you ride. NEVER lend your moped to an inexperienced rider.

Many automobile/moped accidents happen because the automobile driver does not "see" the rider. Make yourself conspicuous to help avoid a crash:

• Obey all federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
• Wear bright or reflective clothing. Don't ride in another motorists' "blind spot."

For additional information on making yourself visible to other drivers, visit the new MMSC campaign site Go High-Viz!

All mopeds must be legally registered to operate on a public street or highway. Also, all mopeds operated on the streets and highways must have liability insurance. Motorized foot scooters do not require registration or insurance.

Excessive speed is a factor in many accidents. Obey the speed limits and never travel faster than your skill level or than the conditions allow.

• Signal well before you make a turn or lane change. Your size and maneuverability can surprise other motorists.
• Consider using hand signals in addition to your electric turn signals.

Don't let other motorists surprise you. Use extra caution at intersections, parking lot entrances and exits, and driveways.

Keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the floor boards while riding.

Never leave your moped unattended with the engine running.

Reduce your speed when riding over bumpy roads. Avoid hitting road hazards, such as sharp bumps and holes in the road surface. These hazards can cause loss of control or damage to your moped.

Because of their speed limitations, mopeds are not allowed on Interstate freeways.

Mopeds are not allowed on lanes and trails that have been set aside for bicycles, though electric-assisted bicycles may ride in a bicycle lane. Ride on a paved shoulder, if available. If not, ride in the extreme right portion of lane. Motorized foot scooters may be operated on bicycle paths, lanes, trails, and bikeways unless prohibited under local jurisdiction.

Be especially conscious of traffic from behind. Because of the likely speed difference between the other traffic and your moped, use caution and check your mirrors frequently: every 5-7 seconds. Remember, mirrors allow only a partial view to your rear. There are blind spots. Be aware of where they are, and check them frequently. Motorized foot scooter riders must use extreme caution because they do not have rear-view mirrors.

Ride in the traffic lane only when you are passing, preparing for a left turn, or avoiding a hazard, animal, or pedestrian in your way. Pull back over to the right as soon as you safely can. Motorized foot scooter riders must ride as close as possible to the right hand curb or edge of the roadway except to pass another vehicle or avoid impediments. The rider making a left turn must dismount at the right hand curb and cross the roadway on foot. Riders must ride in the same direction as the adjacent traffic, even when on the shoulder.

Riding on sidewalks is not permitted except where it would be necessary for a short distance to get from a driveway, alley or building to an adjacent roadway.

Mopeds must yield the right-of-way to other traffic.

It is illegal to ride between stopped (or moving) lanes of cars on the street or at intersections.

Protective Apparel

The exhaust system becomes very hot during operation and it remains hot after operation. Never touch any part of the hot exhaust system. Wear clothing that fully covers your legs. Ideally, wear full protective gear: helmet, jacket, boots, gloves, and long pants, and a reflective safety vest for visibility.

Do not wear loose clothing which could catch on the control levers, footrests, or wheels.

Modifications

Modification of the moped or removal of original equipment may render the vehicle unsafe or illegal. Obey all federal, state, and local equipment regulations.

Loading and Accessories

A moped is sensitive to changes in weight distribution. Improper loading of cargo or mounting of accessories can impair the moped's stability and performance. To prevent a crash, use extreme care when mounting accessories and riding with cargo.

Other Safety Tips

Gasoline is extremely flammable and is explosive under certain conditions. Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine off. Do not smoke or allow flames or sparks in the area where the moped is refueled or where gasoline is stored.

Do not overfill the tank. After refueling, make sure the fuel cap is closed securely.

Do not turn the key to the LOCK position while riding the moped.

The helmet holder is designed for helmet security while parked. Do not operate the moped with a helmet attached to the holder. This could damage the helmet and make it useless.

The rear wheel will spin if not restrained by the brake or contact with the ground. Accidental contact with a spinning rear wheel could cause severe personal injury.

Never run the engine in a closed area. The exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas.

A moped may be parked the same as a bicycle.

Riding

Both front and rear brakes should be applied together. Independent use of only the front or rear brake reduces stopping performance.

Excessive brake application may cause either wheel to lock, reducing control of the moped.

When riding in wet or rainy conditions or on loose surfaces, the ability to maneuver and stop will be reduced. For your safety, use extreme caution when braking, accelerating or turning.

Park the moped on firm, level ground to prevent overturning.

Braking performance may be impaired immediately after washing the moped. When the brakes get wet, they may need to be used a couple of times before they work properly again.

(For scooter safety information, you may also click here for the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's "You and Your Scooter Riding Tips.")

Last Updated 4/19/2010

Printer Friendly Page