Scooters, Mopeds, Etc... in Texas

In Texas, the operation of any street-legal moped or scooter requires a Class M motorcycle license. To obtain a Class M license, you will need, among other things, to take a motorcycle safety course that's approved by the Department of Public Safety (DPS). But there is other important information you need to know before applying for your license.

The Texas Certified Moped List

The TX DPS recently published a list of certified mopeds meeting the legal definition of a moped. Don't see your bike on the list of certified mopeds? Ask yourself these three questions:

• Can it exceed 30 miles per hour?
• Does it require shifting gears?
• Does it have a piston displacement of more than 50 cubic centimeters?

If you answered yes to any of the questions, your moped is classified as a motorcycle. This means you are not eligible for the “K” restriction, and you require a Class M motorcycle license.

If you answered no to all three questions, you're eligible for a "K" restriction. This means you do not have to have to take a motorcycle test. A "K" restriction limits you to moped riding only; you cannot operate a motorcycle. To obtain your restriction:

• Print out a moped affidavit.
• Take the affidavit to a moped dealer or manufacturer for completion.
• Deliver the completed affidavit to your local tax office to receive the “K” restriction. Be sure to have proper identification and either your permit or license.

Texas Moped and Scooter License Requirements

To apply for a Class M license, and you’re under 18 years of age, you will need to:

• Have either a Class C learner’s permit or a valid TX driver’s license
• Pass a driver’s education course before taking a a state-approved motorcycle safety course.

Take your motorcycle safety course completion certificate to your local DPS office to apply for a Class M license. Be sure to also bring proper identification.

Remember, you do not have to take a motorcycle riding test when applying for a Class M license with a "K" restriction. You do, however, have to pass a basic knowledge test and a motorcycle knowledge exam. Both tests will be waived if you hold a valid motorcycle license from another state.

TX Moped and Scooter Registration

To register your scooter or moped, visit your local county tax office with:

• Proper identification
• Proof of insurance coverage.
• A Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin or the current title signed over to you
• Payment of $30 for your registration fee, plus any other applicable local county fees

You'll be issued a motorcycle tag, which attaches to the rear of your scooter or moped.

Texas Insurance and Annual Moped Inspections

Texas requires that all motor vehicles, including mopeds, to pass an annual vehicle inspection. You're also required to maintain the state’s minimum 30/60/25 insurance coverage on mopeds at all times.

Shopping for a Moped or Scooter

In these days of environmental consciousness and high gas prices, many of us are looking for alternate means of transportation. Mopeds and motorcycles certainly fall into this category, and to help you decide if this option is right for you, DMV.org has compiled a lengthy list of resources to get you started in the evaluation process:

• Transporting Your Motorcycle
• Electric Vehicles That Classify as a Motorcycle
• How to Fall/Lay Down the Bike
• Scooters 101
• Touring
• Must-Have Accessories
• Theft Prevention
• Finding a Trustworthy Mechanic

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