Mopeds and Scooters

Mopeds and scooters, the tame cousins of motorcycles, are one and the same in the eyes of North Carolina's Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Before you begin operating, you should educate yourself on what and what is not required.

Operating Requirements

In order to ride, you must be at least 16 years old. Owning a driver's license isn't required, but wearing a helmet is, regardless of age.

Other Stuff to Know

To qualify as a moped and/or as a scooter, your bike cannot exceed 30 miles per hour on a level service and it cannot possess an engine larger than 50 cubic centimeters. If your moped/scooter exceeds these standards, you must register it as a motorcycle. Otherwise you do not have to register it, have it inspected, nor have it insured.

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