Motorcycles, Mopeds and Scooters Defined

Cycles Defined, Registration and Driver Licensing Requirements

Motorcycles

• A motorcycle has more than a 150cc engine size and no more than 3 wheels.
• A motorcycle has to be registered, and the driver must have a motorcycle license (M1).
• M1 license holders may operate any motorized bicycle, moped, or motor scooter without an M2 endorsement.

Motor-Driven Cycles

• A motor-driven cycle has a 149cc or less engine size. CVC §405
• A motor-driven cycle has to be registered, and the driver must have a motorcycle license (M1).

NOTE: Three-wheeled motorcycles or a motorcycle with a side car require only a Class C driver's license. California Vehicle Code (CVC) §12804.9

Mopeds

A "motorized bicycle" or "moped" is:

• A two or three-wheeled device capable of no more than 30 mph on level ground and equipped with:
  - Fully operative pedals for human propulsion.
  - A motor producing less than two gross brake horsepower and an automatic transmission.
  - An electric motor, with or without pedals for human propulsion. (CVC §406(a))

The driver must have a motorcycle license (M1 or M2).

If you operate a motorized bicycle that meets the definition of CVC §406(b), you:

• A motorized bicycle is issued special license plates and identification cards, which require a one-time $18 fee. No renewal is required.

Scooters

• A motorized scooter is a two-wheeled device that has handlebars and a floorboard designed to be stood upon when riding and is powered by a motor. Click here for more information CVC §407.5
• A motorized scooter does NOT have to be registered. A motorized scooter may be driven with any class driver license.

Motorcycle Handbook