If a “moped” is registered and licensed as a scooter, the appropriate license is required to drive it. In fact, you may need a “motorcycle” endorsement, which includes a separate test from the driver’s license test.
You can drive a moped without a license, but if you are underage or do not have such a license and the police stop you, you will likely get a ticket and may have to call someone to pick you up or walk home. The officer is the one who makes the decision, but he or she has the authority to do so.
If a “moped” is actually a scooter or a motorcycle limited to 20 mph or less, you may not need a license to drive it, but there may be age or other restrictions depending on where you live.
Do I need a license to ride an electric scooter?
You see electric scooters all over town and everyone who rides them seems to be having a great time. So why haven’t you bought a folding electric scooter yet, you may be wondering if e-scooters require a driver’s license or if you need a special license like a motorcycle. You may not have a driver’s license. Can I still ride a shared electric scooter or my own electric scooter?
Many states put electric scooters in the same category as electric bicycles, which can be driven without a driver’s license. Some put scooters in the same category as mopeds and other roadworthy vehicles that require a valid driver’s license to operate; sharing companies such as Bird and Lime usually require riders to be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. This is company policy, not state or federal law, and helps cover all bases.
The rules regarding riding electric scooters are constantly changing. At least in the United States, a driver’s license is not required to ride an electric scooter. However, depending on how each state and region defines electric scooters, the answer could change from one legislative session to the next. You should always check your local laws to be sure.
Unless you do not need a license to ride a scooter and do not plan to ride a motorcycle that requires a license, it is recommended that you get a motorcycle license regardless of local laws.
In jurisdictions that have different licensing requirements for mopeds/scooters (like the “limited speed motorcycle license” where I live), it is usually not too difficult to get a full motorcycle license. Getting a license right away will save you time and money in the long run.
How do I get a motorcycle license in the UK?
At the time of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the procedure for obtaining an automatic scooter or moped license in the UK was regulated into different categories depending on your age and the type of vehicle you plan to ride. Since the regulations may have changed since then, it is always advisable to consult the latest information provided by the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) and official government websites.
A general overview of the licensing process is as follows
Compulsory Basic Training (CBT):
If you are 16 years of age or older and want to ride a moped or scooter with a maximum speed of 50 km/h (about 31 mph), you must take Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). CBT is not a test, but a course that teaches the basics of riding safely on the road. Upon completion of the CBT, the student is issued a DL196 certificate, which is valid for two years. During this period, you may ride a moped or scooter displaying the L-plate (L-sign).
Category AM License (Moped):
If you are 16 years old and have completed CBT, you may ride a moped with an engine size up to 50 cc and a maximum speed of 50 km/h (approx. 31 mph) displaying the L plate. No separate test is required for this license category.
Category A1 license (light motorcycle):
If you are at least 17 years old, you can take a practical test to obtain an A1 license. This license allows you to ride a motorcycle up to 125 cc and with an output of up to 11 kW (14.6 bhp). You must complete CBT before taking the practical test.
We recommend that you visit the mangosteenescooter.com or contact the Mangosteen directly to obtain the most current and accurate information.
