To legally operate your motorcycle you must provide proof of financial responsibility. Compliance, for most riders, involves purchasing a liability insurance policy.

Ways to Establish Financial Responsibility

The state gives you several choices:

• Take out self-insurance coverage. But this is only available to drivers/riders who have more than 25 vehicles registered under their name.

• Obtain a surety bond from an authorized in-state broker.

• Make a cash deposit with the State Treasurer. For information, call (208) 334-3200.

• Liability insurance (read below for more information).

Two-Wheeled Vehicles Defined

If you have any doubts whether your two-wheeled vehicle requires registration, and thus would necessitate insurance, call the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) at (208) 334-8649.

• Motorcycle―Every motor vehicle having a seat or saddle for riding purposes and designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground. It must also meet all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

• Motor-Driven Cycle―This pertains to a cycle with a motor that produces five-brake horsepower or less and meets all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. This requires titling and a motorcycle endorsement to operate.

• Moped:
  ―Has motorized or pedal propulsion that cannot exceed 30 miles per hour.
  ―If it contains an internal combustion engine, it cannot have a displacement of more than 50 cubic centimeters.
  ―Has a power drive system that functions directly or automatically without clutching or shifting.
  ―It can also be powered by electrical energy with a motor that produces less than two gross brake horsepower.

NOTE: A moped does not require titling or a motorcycle endorsement to operate.