Two-Wheeled Vehicles Defined

In Minnesota, two-wheel vehicles are defined as follows:

• Motorcycle―A motorcycle:

• Is a motor vehicle with a seat or saddle for the use of the rider.

• Is designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground.

• Includes motor scooters and bicycles with motor attached.

• Motorized foot scooter―A motorized foot scooter has:

• Handlebars designed to be stood or sat upon by the operator.

• No more than two 12-inch or smaller diameter wheels.

• An engine or motor that is capable of a maximum speed of 15 miles per hour on a flat surface with not more than one percent grade in any direction when the motor is engaged.

• An internal combustion engine or electric motor that is capable of propelling the device with or without human propulsion.

• Motorized bicycle―A motorized bicycle:

• Is propelled by an electric or a liquid fuel motor of a piston displacement capacity of 50 cc or less

• A maximum of two-brake horsepower.

• Can reach a maximum speed of not more than 30 mph on a flat surface with not more than one percent grade in any direction when the motor is engaged.

If your vehicle requires motorcycle registration, you must meet the state's motorcycle insurance requirements for proof of financial responsibility. Call the Driver and Vehicle Services Offices at (651) 296-6911 if you have questions about whether your two-wheeled vehicle meets the state's definition of a motorcycle.

Minnesota Insurance Requirements for Motorcycles

In comparison to other states, Minnesota has fairly strict laws regarding insurance coverage. Not only does the state require drivers to purchase liability insurance, Minnesota also requires underinsured motorist and uninsured motorist coverage. (The state requires personal injury protection for cars and trucks, but not motorcycles or snowmobiles.)

Liability Insurance

Liability insurance pays for claims that are the result of an accident that is determined to be your fault. Coverage must be at least:

• Injuries to one person covered for $30,000

• Injuries to two or more people covered for $60,000

• Property damage covered for $10,000

Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Underinsured motorist coverage pays for medical claims if the other driver is responsible for the accident and does not have the proper amount of insurance. Minimum requirements for this policy are:

• Injuries to one person covered for $25,000

• Injuries to two or more people covered for $50,000

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured motorist coverage pays for medical expenses if the other driver is responsible for the accident and has no insurance coverage. Uninsured motorist policies must provide the following:

• Injuries to one person covered for $25,000

• Injuries to two or more people covered for $50,000

The amounts listed above are the bare minimum state insurance requirements, but many drivers chose to purchase policies offering additional protection. Extensive insurance coverage can give you added peace of mind when you're traveling on the state's roads.

How Coverage Affects Helmet Requirements

According to state law, riders younger than 18 and those with instructional permits must wear motorcycle helmets. The amount of insurance coverage you carry does not affect this requirement.

Proof of Insurance and Financial Responsibility

You should keep your insurance card with you at all times. You must be able to submit your proof of financial responsibility in the event of an accident or if a police officer asks to see it when you are stopped for a moving violation.

Penalties for Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility

Being caught with no proof of insurance can be a very costly mistake. Depending on whether or not it is your first offense for this violation, fines can range between $250 and $1,000 with up to 90 days in jail. You may also have your license suspended or revoked, although this can sometimes be avoided if you are able to purchase a valid insurance policy before your court appearance.

Failure to maintain financial responsibility is a misdemeanor for first time offenders, but a gross misdemeanor if you've been charged with the same offense in the last 10 years.