Scooters, Mopeds, Etc... in Louisiana

When it comes to other types of vehicles that are allowed on public roads, the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) focuses mostly on motor-driven cycles, which are types of motorcycles that have motors with 5 horsepower or less.

Read on to learn more about the license, registration, and riding requirements for these types of vehicles.

Motor-Driven Cycles in Louisiana

The most common types of motor-driven cycles include motor scooters and mopeds (also referred to as motorized bikes).

Louisiana defines a moped/motorized bike as a pedal bicycle that:

  • Can be propelled by a human, helper motor, or both.
  • Has 1.5 brake horsepower or less.
  • Doesn’t exceed 50 cc.
  • Has an automatic transmission.
  • Can’t travel faster than 25 MPH.

To operate a motorized bike/moped, you must:

Again, because the state might categorize your motor-driven cycle differently based on its specifications, it’s best to contact the LA OMV before applying for a license or registration for your bike.

Motor-Driven Cycle Safety Laws

You must follow these safety laws when operating a motor-driven cycle such as a moped, motorized bike, or qualifying scooter:

  • Only 1 person at a time can ride on a motor-driven cycle.
  • You must wear a helmet with a lining, padding, visor, and chin strap.
  • Your motor-driven cycle must have at least 1 headlamp (but not more than 2 headlamps) that:
    • Emits white light only.
    • Is between 24 and 54 inches when measured from the center.
    • Is visible from at least:
      • 100 feet when you’re operating it at any speed fewer than 25 MPH.
      • 200 feet when you’re operating it at 25 MPH or more.
      • 300 feet when you’re operating it at 35 MPH or more.
  • The cycle must have at least 1 reflector that is:
    • Mounted at a height of 20 to 60 inches.
    • Visible from between 100 and 350 feet at night.
  • Your cycle must have at least 1 brake, which can be a hand- or foot-operated brake.
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