Motorcycle, Moped & Scooters Frequently Asked Questions

Motorcycles

What is a Motorcycle?
In Florida, as defined by law, a motorcycle is a motor vehicle powered by a motor with a displacement of more than 50 cubic centimeters, having a seat or saddle for the use of the rider, and designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground, but excluding a tractor or moped. § 322.01(25)

What about licensing for motorcycles?
It requires the minimal Class E driver's license along with a 'Motorcycle Endorsement' in Florida. ...visit the Florida DHSMV Website for more information

How about helmets and eye protection for motorcycle riders?
If you are 21 years old and older, you can ride without a helmet if you carry proof of Personal Injury Protection or health insurance, (such as an employee health insurance card.) The coverage amount must be at least $10,000 to pay for treatment of injuries that may result from a crash. Those under 21 years old must wear a Department approved motorcycle helmet without exception. All motorcycle riders must wear department a approved eye-protection device. § 316.211(1) & (2) 

Mopeds & Motorized Scooters

What is a Moped or Motorized Scooter?
In Florida, as defined by law, a Moped is 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. § 316.003(77)  A Motorized Scooter is any vehicle not having a seat or saddle for the use of the rider, designed to travel on not more than three wheels, and not capable of propelling the vehicle at a speed greater than 30 miles per hour on level ground. § 316.003(82)

What about licensing for Mopeds and Motorized Scooters?
If 50 cc or less, these vehicles are not motorcycles by driver license law definition, § 322.01(25), so a motorcycle endorsement is not required per § 322.03(4); however, to operate them on streets and roadways, you must be at least 16 years old and hold at least a regular operator (Class E) or "Motorcycle Only" driver license. (Reason: Even though these vehicles are 50 cc or less, they still fall under the driver license law definition of "Motor Vehicle" and a driver license is required to operate a "motor vehicle.") § 322.03(1), § 322.01(26) and § 322.05(1).

In Florida, the only motorized vehicle you may operate without a driver's license is  bicycle with an electric helper-motor that cannot go faster than 20 mph on level ground. You must be at least 16 years of age however § 322.03(1), § 322.01(26) and § 316.003(2).

How about helmets and eye protection for Mopeds & Motorized Scooters?
If a motor vehicle is 50 cc or less, 2 brake horsepower or less, and can not exceed more than 30 mph on level ground, no helmet is required for the operator. The operator must be at least 16 years old and hold at least a regular operator driver license (Class E) or “Motorcycle Only” license.) Passengers under 16 must wear a helmet. § 316.211(3) 

All persons who operate motorcycles (motorcycle = 51cc or more) must wear eye protection. 

Information supplied in this page was obtained in part from the Florida Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles.