6.2 Mopeds, Motorized Scooters, Limited Use & Low-Speed Vehicles

Students and parents often ask whether a teen needs a license for "that scooter" or a golf-cart-style vehicle. The Manual answers with four separate definitions, and exam questions turn on their speeds, license classes and road limits.

The Four Vehicle Types at a Glance

Moped Rules in Detail

You must have a valid driver's license of any class, or a learner's permit, to ride a moped. While riding you must:

• go no faster than 25 mph;
• stay off limited-access or express state highways posted against bicycles;
• use the correct electronic and hand signals before stopping or turning;
• stay off off-street recreational paths (bicycle lanes along roads are allowed);
• make sure the driver and any passengers wear helmets that meet or exceed the U.S. DOT standard;
• obey all traffic laws;
• carry no passengers when riding on a learner's permit.

Violating any of these rules can bring a fine of up to $100. Section 6.1 notes that mopeds share the bicycle's right to the road and need the same four-foot passing space.

Motorized Scooter Rules in Detail

A motorized scooter rider must:

• go no faster than 20 mph;
• stay off limited-access or express state highways;
• wear a U.S. DOT-standard helmet;
• stay to the right side of the road, even when passing another vehicle;
• use electronic and hand signals before stopping or turning;
• not ride after sunset or before sunrise;
• carry no passengers;
• obey all traffic laws.

Fines run up to $25 for a first offense, $25–$50 for a second and $50–$100 for a third or later. The Manual notes that fees are subject to change.

Limited Use and Low Speed Vehicles

• A limited use vehicle sits between a moped and a normal vehicle: faster than 30 mph but no faster than 40 mph. Whether it counts as a motorcycle (Class M) or a passenger vehicle (Class D) depends on how many wheels it has. It may not use limited-access or express state highways or any road posted over 40 mph.
• A low speed vehicle has four wheels, travels between 20 and 25 mph and weighs under 3,000 lb gross. It requires a Class D license or permit. It may not use limited-access or express state highways or any road posted over 30 mph, and may be barred from heavy-traffic areas. LSV drivers must obey all traffic laws.

Bicycle Safety Law Changes

The Manual's "Bicycle Safety Laws" summary reflects updates that put more responsibility on cyclists, motorists and bike renters, and gave police more training in bicycle enforcement:

• A police officer who sees a bicyclist commit a traffic violation can issue a citation just as for a motorist. The cyclist can be fined, but it does not affect their driving record.
• A bicyclist must give the officer their true name and address when asked. They can be fined for refusing and arrested for refusing to give their name.
• Companies that rent bicycles must offer helmets that meet all safety requirements.
• Motorists can be cited for a motor vehicle violation for certain behavior around bicycles. The detailed list, such as cutting off a cyclist after passing or opening a door into one, is in sections 13.2 and 13.3.

Answering Family Questions About Small Vehicles

• When a family asks about a teen's scooter or moped, the answer is the same: a license or permit is required, helmet rules apply, and highway and nighttime limits differ by vehicle type.
• Explain the difference between a speed cap and a road ceiling: a moped rider may not exceed 25 mph, while an LSV driver may not use a road posted over 30 mph.
• Expect low-speed and light vehicles to travel well below the traffic flow. Plan passing with the four-foot rule where the operator is a vulnerable road user.