Scooters, Mopeds, Etc... in Montana

Is that a motor scooter, moped, or some other type of nonstandard motorized vehicle out in your driveway? With this guide, we’ll help you determine what kind of motor-driven cycle you have so you can take the proper license and registration steps with the Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD)

Motor-Driven Cycles in MT

In Montana, a motor-driven cycle is a motorcycle or motor scooter with a motor that produces 5 brake HP or fewer.

You must have a motorcycle endorsement (and complete all the training and exams that go along with it) and register your motor-driven cycle then same way you would register a standard motorcycle.

Be sure to take a look at the Montana MVD’s driver handbook and motorcycle manual for more safety tips and riding instructions.

Note that mopeds are less powerful than motor-driven cycles and do not fall into the same category.

Mopeds in Montana

A moped is a vehicle with:

  • 2 or 3 wheels.
  • Pedals that allow for human propulsion.
  • A motor of no more than 2 brake HP and that can’t propel the device faster than 30 MPH unassisted on flat ground.
  • A power drive system that:
    • Functions directly or indirectly only.
    • Doesn’t require shifting or clutching once engaged.

You must register your moped the same way you’d register a motorcycle, but you only need a basic driver’s license to operate it—not a motorcycle endorsement.

If you aren’t sure whether your vehicle is a moped or motor-driven cycle, it’s best to contact or visit your local county treasurer’s office for help identifying the type of cycle you have.

MT Moped Safety Regulations

Montana has a few moped-specific laws:

  • When you operate your moped a dawn, dusk, or during the night, you must have all of the following:
    • A lamp on the front emitting white light that can be seen from 500 feet away.
    • A lamp on the back emitting red light that can be seen from 500 feet away OR a red reflector on the rear that can be seen from 500 feet away when illuminated by a motor vehicle’s low-beam headlights.
    • Reflective material on both sides of the moped that can be seen from 500 feet away when illuminated by a motor vehicle’s low-beam headlights.
  • Your moped must have a brake that will stop the bike within 25 feet or fewer from a speed of 10 MPH.

Furthermore, even though your moped isn’t considered a motorcycle, it’s best to brush up on the traffic and safety laws found in the Montana Motorcycle Supplement and Montana Driver Manual.

Motorized Skateboards, Pocket Rockets, & More

In Montana, a motorized nonstandard vehicle:

  • Is propelled by an internal combustion engine or electric motor.
  • Has a wheelbase of fewer than 40 inches and a wheel diameter of fewer than 10 inches.
  • Doesn’t have a vehicle identification number (VIN) or display a manufacturer’s certification.

These types of vehicles go by various names such as motorized skateboards and pocket rockets, and CANNOT be titled or registered in MT or ridden on public roadways.

If you’re unsure what kind of vehicle you have, contact or visit your county treasurer’s office for further assistance.

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